The UAE on Thursday announced that it has been named the third-biggest humanitarian donor in the world for 2025, according to updated UN tracking data, a recognition highlighted by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who said the ranking reflects the nation’s commitment to “timely, effective relief for people in crisis.”
Why is the UAE among the World top 3?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially cemented its place as a global leader in giving, securing the rank of the third-largest humanitarian donor worldwide for 2025. This stunning achievement, confirmed by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) through its Financial Tracking Service (FTS), highlights the nation’s immense commitment to international relief efforts.Only two entities contributed more globally: the United States and the European Union. By placing third, the UAE successfully positioned itself ahead of all other single donor nations, reinforcing its influence far beyond its borders.
UAE Humanitarian Aid
The figures behind the ranking are clear and significant. For 2025, the UAE contributed an extraordinary $1.46 billion in humanitarian assistance.This massive sum represents 7.2% of the total aid recorded by the United Nations for the year. The total global contributions tracked by the UN reached $20.28 billion, demonstrating the UAE’s critical role in managing global crises.Crucially, the UAE’s approach focuses on both immediate relief and building a better future:
| Aid Focus | Examples of Support |
| Immediate Relief | Food, medicine, essential clothing, and emergency shelter. |
| Long-Term Development | Programmes covering vital sectors like healthcare, education, energy, and infrastructure to help communities achieve sustainable development. |
The nation’s top ranking is not just about the money; it’s rooted in a deep-seated humanitarian philosophy that guides foreign policy.H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, and Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, provided key insight into the strategy:He further stressed that the UAE’s mission is to serve people in need “regardless of origin, race, religion, belief, or geography.” This non-political, universal approach is a practical embodiment of the country’s values.
Global reach
The UAE has consistently demonstrated its commitment by responding swiftly and effectively to global crises and natural disasters.According to UN OCHA data, the financial assistance provided by the UAE is channeled to major global emergencies. While the aid is global, key recipient communities for 2025 include:
- Palestine: Named as the largest single recipient, receiving approximately 14.9% of the UAE’s humanitarian funds. Specific efforts have included the delivery of over 90,000 tonnes of aid to Gaza since late 2023.
- Sudan: A focus area given the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.
- Syria
- Ukraine
- Afghanistan
Through a blend of quick emergency response, like aid shipments carrying medical supplies and shelter materials, and long-term recovery projects, the UAE continues to lead the charge in alleviating suffering and building resilience for vulnerable populations globally.
