Dubai Allocates Dh1.8 Billion to Global Humanitarian Aid, Touching 111 Million Lives

Dubai has once again reinforced its status as a global humanitarian leader, with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) investing Dh1.8 billion in aid and development projects in 2023. The impact of these efforts reached over 111 million people across 105 countries, marking a significant increase in both reach and resources compared to previous years.

This record-breaking achievement underscores the UAE’s growing commitment to alleviating global suffering and fostering hope across communities affected by poverty, conflict, and natural disasters.

🌍 Global Reach, Expanding Impact

In just one year, MBRGI:

• Extended operations to 105 countries (5 more than in 2022)

• Reached 111 million beneficiaries, 9 million more than the previous year

• Mobilized over 160,000 volunteers alongside 1,028 dedicated staff

• Increased humanitarian spending from Dh1.4 billion (2022) to Dh1.8 billion (2023)

A Dh50 million aid package to Gaza was among the many targeted efforts, along with relief for Syrian and Turkish earthquake survivors and emergency support for displaced communities in Sudan, as part of the “Bridges of Goodness” campaign.

🗣️ Leadership Speaks: A Vision for Global Good

Following a meeting at the Dubai Opera, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, shared a message of hope and responsibility:

“Every time we reach someone in need—fighting poverty, disease, or ignorance—it’s a victory for humanity. From aid and education to empowerment and innovation, our aim is to restore hope and create sustainable progress.”

Echoing this sentiment, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, reaffirmed the UAE’s global role in humanitarian leadership:

“MBRGI has turned charitable work into a structured, sustainable mission—rooted in the UAE’s founding values and commitment to building a better future for all.”

🏆 Milestones & Notable Campaigns in 2023

🔹 1 Billion Meals Endowment

• Raised Dh1.075 billion from 180,000 donors

• Included Sheikh Mohammed’s personal contribution of Dh250 million in assets and funds

• Set up the region’s largest sustainable food endowment to combat global hunger

🔹 Mothers’ Endowment Campaign

• Launched a Dh1 billion endowment fund

• Aims to support global education initiatives in honour of mothers

🔹 Dubai Cares

• Impacted 24 million beneficiaries across 60 countries

• Continued funding innovative education models and vocational training programmes

🔹 Philanthropy Awards

• The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Medal for Philanthropy recognized key contributors

• Total value of charitable prizes awarded: Dh25.1 million

🚀 Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Sustainable Aid

In collaboration with the World Economic Forum, MBRGI also launched the Food Innovation Hub UAE, aimed at advancing sustainable food systems through technology and global partnerships.

With its steadily growing impact and transparent governance, MBRGI continues to inspire regional and international philanthropy—serving as a model for institutionalized humanitarian work that goes beyond emergency aid to create long-term development opportunities.

📌 Quick Highlights