Dubai Humanitarian Delivers 71.6 Metric Tonnes Of Medical Supplies To Gaza Amid Ongoing Crisis

Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Humanitarian has dispatched another urgent relief shipment to Gaza. This aid was sent via El Arish, Egypt, to assist those affected and displaced. A Boeing 747 from Dubai Royal Air Wing transported 71.6 metric tonnes of crucial medical supplies, including cholera treatment kits and emergency health kits from WHO and WFP-UNHRD.

Mohammed Al Shaibani, Chairman of Dubai Humanitarian, expressed concern for those impacted by the crisis. He stated, "At Dubai Humanitarian, our priority is to alleviate the suffering of the people affected by the devastating conflict in Gaza. With the invaluable support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, we are able to swiftly mobilise aid and reach those who are enduring unimaginable hardships. We remain committed to ensuring that essential relief reaches the people who need it most."

This marks the 19th shipment facilitated by Dubai Humanitarian for Gaza since October 2023's emergency onset. The supplies, valued at AED3.8 million ($1,037,560), aim to assist over 300,000 Gazans with life-saving relief. The ongoing efforts underscore Dubai's commitment to providing timely assistance to those in dire need.

Dr. Hanan Balkhy from WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office highlighted their contributions: "WHO has delivered over US$9.2 million in essential medicines, health supplies, and equipment for Gaza since the conflict began, representing nearly 40 percent of all shipments from our logistics hub in Dubai." She noted that this flight carried 62.3 metric tonnes of vital medicines for various diseases.

Dubai Humanitarian also supports global humanitarian responses through initiatives like the Global Humanitarian Impact Fund (GHIF). Recently, they helped transport medical supplies to combat an MPOX outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo with WHO's collaboration. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to international humanitarian aid.

Stephen Anderson from WFP praised UAE's leadership: "Thanks to the UAE leadership, the bold foresight of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Dubai Humanitarian’s strong support, the UAE has shown steadfast commitment to humanitarian action across the globe for decades." He emphasised that this recent airlift exemplifies their dedication.

The flight is part of 13 charter flights coordinated by Dubai Humanitarian for WHO since the crisis began. These flights enable swift delivery of critical health supplies to those in need. The collaboration between Dubai Humanitarian and its partners is crucial for effective humanitarian efforts in Gaza and beyond.

The UAE's enduring commitment to global humanitarian action is evident through these initiatives. By facilitating timely relief efforts and supporting international partners, Dubai continues to play a pivotal role in addressing urgent humanitarian needs worldwide.

With inputs from WAM