The United Arab Emirates has announced a 15 million dollar contribution to the UN refugee agency to bolster its response to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Sudan and the surrounding region. The pledge comes as UN humanitarian data shows that Emirati aid to Sudan has reached around 784 million dollars since the war erupted in 2023, placing the UAE as the second largest donor after the US.
Geneva conference
The announcement was made during the UNHCR Pledging Conference for the 2026 Global Appeal, held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, according to the Emirates News Agency. The annual event brings together representatives from donor countries to outline their financial commitments for the coming year, serving as a key platform for coordinating global humanitarian efforts.
Humanitarian commitment
Jamal Al Musharakh, the UAE’s permanent representative to the UN in Geneva, said the contribution reflects his country’s commitment to supporting communities hit by conflict. He noted that the world is witnessing unprecedented displacement driven by war, persecution and climate change, adding that burden sharing has become essential to protecting refugees and internally displaced people. He stressed that the UAE works closely with UNHCR and partner agencies to ensure that essential services reach those most in need.
Protracted crises
Al Musharakh also highlighted the prolonged crises in Sudan, South Sudan, the Sahel, Myanmar and Ukraine, as well as worsening internal displacement in the Great Lakes and the Horn of Africa. He warned that women and children remain among the most vulnerable groups, calling for targeted support and predictable funding to help host communities withstand mounting pressures.
Ongoing aid
According to the UN’s humanitarian coordination office, total Emirati assistance to Sudan since the 2023 conflict began has reached approximately 784 million dollars, confirming the UAE as the country’s second biggest donor. Between 2015 and 2025, UAE aid to Sudan exceeded 4.24 billion dollars, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s sustained role in regional and international humanitarian efforts.
