UAE Becomes World’s Third-Largest Humanitarian Donor in 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been ranked as the third-largest contributor of humanitarian aid globally in 2025, according to newly released data from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA). The Financial Tracking Service (FTS) report shows that the UAE contributed $1.46 billion in humanitarian assistance this year, representing 7.2% of all global aid tracked by the UN. The UAE ranked only behind the United States and the European Union, surpassing all other countries in international humanitarian giving.

A Record Year for Humanitarian Assistance

• The total humanitarian contributions recorded by the UN in 2025 reached $20.28 billion, highlighting the scale of global need in the face of ongoing conflicts, climate-related disasters, and economic instability.
• The UAE’s aid efforts were praised for their speed, scope, and long-term impact, cementing its growing role as a reliable and responsive humanitarian leader on the world stage.

Leadership and Values Behind UAE’s Aid Mission

Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court and Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, noted that this global ranking is a result of visionary leadership under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

He emphasized that the UAE’s humanitarian outreach is rooted in solidarity, global cooperation, and sustainable development, values passed down from the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Theyab also highlighted the guidance of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has played a pivotal role in expanding the reach and strategic focus of UAE humanitarian efforts.

Humanitarian Focus: From Emergency Relief to Long-Term Recovery

The UAE’s foreign aid strategy blends emergency response with long-term development support, including,

• Food, water, shelter, clothing, and medical aid during crises
• Healthcare systems development, especially in post-conflict zones
• Educational infrastructure and services in fragile states
• Energy and clean water projects in underserved regions
• Post-disaster reconstruction, promoting resilience and sustainability

This dual focus ensures that aid not only alleviates immediate suffering but also supports rebuilding livelihoods and infrastructure for lasting recovery.

A Global Commitment Beyond Borders

• The UAE’s humanitarian approach is distinctly non-discriminatory, serving people “regardless of origin, race, religion, belief, or geography.” It reflects the principles enshrined in the UAE’s 50-Year Charter, especially the Ninth Principle, which positions humanitarian aid as a moral and national responsibility.
• This vision continues to place the UAE as a bridge of relief and development between nations, reinforcing its soft power diplomacy and international credibility.

Relevant Static Facts

• UN ranking (2025): UAE is the 3rd largest humanitarian donor globally
• Amount contributed: $1.46 billion
• Percentage of total UN humanitarian aid: 7.2%
• Top 3 humanitarian donors (2025)
• United States
• European Union
• United Arab Emirates