ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is observing Zayed Humanitarian Day today, a significant occasion held annually on the 19th of Ramadan to honour the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s enduring legacy of philanthropy and humanitarian service.
The day not only marks his passing but also serves as a reminder of his vision – one that positioned the UAE as a global leader in humanitarian aid and international relief efforts.
Since its inception, Zayed Humanitarian Day has been a key moment for the UAE to launch new aid initiatives, reinforce existing charitable projects, and reflect on the nation’s remarkable contributions to global humanitarian work. Under Sheikh Zayed’s leadership, the UAE laid the foundation for a culture of giving that remains deeply embedded in its national identity.
Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Frontline Heroes Office, described the occasion as a “milestone in the UAE’s rich history of generosity and tolerance.” He reaffirmed that Sheikh Zayed’s values of compassion and solidarity continue to inspire the nation’s commitment to humanitarian work, ensuring aid reaches those in need across the world.
Major humanitarian contributions
The UAE has consistently ranked among the world’s top humanitarian aid donors in proportion to its national income. From 1971 to 2004, the country provided approximately Dh90.5 billion in development and humanitarian assistance, benefiting over 117 nations worldwide. These efforts span essential sectors such as food security, healthcare, education, and economic development.
One of Sheikh Zayed’s earliest humanitarian initiatives was the establishment of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development in 1971, dedicated to assisting nations in their infrastructure and economic growth. His vision extended beyond borders, leading to the Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation in 1992, which continues to fund healthcare, educational, and social welfare projects globally.
The UAE is home to over 40 donor institutions actively working on global relief missions, further cementing its reputation as a humanitarian hub. The nation’s contributions have been recognised worldwide, with Sheikh Zayed receiving numerous international accolades for his commitment to philanthropy and development.
Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan highlighted that the UAE’s leadership under Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, remains committed to upholding Sheikh Zayed’s humanitarian vision. He noted that frontline heroes – including medical professionals, aid workers, and emergency responders – play a crucial role in executing life-saving humanitarian initiatives.
Ongoing humanitarian efforts
This year’s Zayed Humanitarian Day coincides with a series of high-impact initiatives reaffirming the UAE’s unwavering dedication to aid and relief. The recently launched ‘Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative’ has committed Dh20 billion towards humanitarian projects, targeting some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
Additionally, the UAE remains at the forefront of urgent humanitarian efforts, particularly in regions affected by conflict and displacement. The ongoing ‘Operation Chivalrous Knight 3’ is one such initiative, providing sustained aid to Palestinian communities over the past 15 months. Other key projects include the ‘Father’s Endowment’ campaign, which funds education and healthcare advancements in impoverished areas.
Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan emphasized that Zayed Humanitarian Day is not just a day of remembrance but an opportunity to reaffirm the UAE’s role as a global force for good. He expressed pride in the efforts of the nation’s frontline heroes, who work tirelessly to bring relief to those in need, both within the UAE and internationally.
Global recognition of Sheikh Zayed’s vision
Sheikh Zayed’s humanitarian footprint extends far beyond financial aid. His name is etched across hospitals, medical centres, cultural institutions, and mosques worldwide – each a testament to his enduring dedication to human welfare.
His legacy continues to shape the UAE’s approach to philanthropy, with the leadership ensuring that humanitarian assistance remains a cornerstone of national policy. The values he instilled – generosity, compassion, and solidarity – live on through the work of frontline heroes, charitable organisations, and international partnerships spearheaded by the UAE.