Saudi Arabia's $131 Billion Humanitarian Aid Effort Supports Global Communities

Saudi Arabia has long been a leader in humanitarian aid, a tradition initiated by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. This dedication continues under Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The Kingdom's framework for charitable work is robust, aiming to alleviate human suffering globally.

Between 1975 and 2024, Saudi Arabia provided around $131 billion in development aid to 171 countries. This aid supported over 7,090 humanitarian, relief, and development projects. By the end of 2023, Saudi Arabia had become the fourth-largest donor of humanitarian and relief aid worldwide, contributing $1.2 billion, or 3.6% of global aid to developing countries and those in crisis.

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), established in 2015, has played a pivotal role in these efforts. KSrelief has executed more than 3,009 projects across 100 countries, delivering aid worth over $6.94 billion. These initiatives have benefited millions of impoverished and vulnerable individuals worldwide.

KSrelief has been particularly active in Yemen, Gaza, Syria, and Turkiye. In Yemen, it has implemented programs such as the Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance (MASAM), Artificial Limbs Centers, and the Reintegration Program for Children Associated with Armed Conflict. Yemeni refugees have received healthcare, education, and employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia.

In Gaza, KSrelief launched air and sea bridges to deliver food, shelter, and medical supplies worth $185 million. Additionally, it funded cancer treatment worth over $300 million for 150 Gazans in Jordan. Following earthquakes in Syria and Turkiye, KSrelief initiated a volunteer program for hearing rehabilitation and cochlear implants—the largest voluntary effort of its kind globally.

Platforms Enhancing Humanitarian Efforts

To further elevate its status as a leading global donor, Saudi Arabia established platforms like the Saudi Aid Platform, the Saudi International Volunteer Portal, and the Sahem electronic donation platform. These platforms facilitate donations and volunteer work on an international scale.

The United Nations recognised Saudi Arabia's commitment by adopting November 24 as World Conjoined Twins Day. This initiative was spearheaded by the Kingdom to mark the achievements of its Conjoined Twins Program. To commemorate the program's 30th anniversary this November, KSrelief will host an international conference on conjoined twins in Riyadh.

These efforts align with Vision 2030 goals to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in global humanitarian aid and disaster relief. The Kingdom's continuous support underscores its commitment to alleviating human suffering worldwide.

With inputs from SPA