UAE's Ahmed bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge Delivers Vital Food Aid to Gaza

The United Arab Emirates has successfully delivered food aid to the Gaza Strip via the Rafah crossing, a crucial step in a larger initiative aiming to provide over 10 million meals to those in need. This delivery is part of the Ahmed bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge, an initiative established to honor the philanthropic legacy of Sheikh Ahmed, brother of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, who passed away on September 21. The aid was transported from Al Maktoum International Airport to the Gallant Knight 3 team, which operates from the UAE Humanitarian Aid Logistics Centre in Al Arish, Egypt. This team was responsible for preparing, loading, and transporting the supplies to the Rafah crossing for onward movement into Gaza.

This operation is a component of the UAE's ongoing and extensive efforts to support Palestinian civilians and mitigate the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The ambitious target of 10 million meals underscores the significant needs in the region and the UAE's steadfast commitment to addressing these challenges through well-organized and large-scale relief operations.

The Ahmed bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge is one of several ongoing UAE-led initiatives providing direct assistance to Gaza's residents. Since the commencement of Operation Gallant Knight 3, the UAE has contributed over $4 billion in humanitarian aid to Gaza, representing approximately 46% of all global humanitarian aid directed to the enclave since 2023. This substantial aid includes 130,708 tonnes of relief, medical, and food supplies, delivered via 796 aircraft, 25 ships, and 14,483 lorries. By leveraging established logistics networks and coordinating closely with Egyptian authorities at the Rafah crossing, the operation ensures that supplies reach the most vulnerable populations in a structured and efficient manner.

In parallel, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, recognized as the region's largest foundation for humanitarian and community development, reported expenditures exceeding Dh2.3 billion in 2025, positively impacting around 165 million beneficiaries across 122 countries. Its dedicated humanitarian aid and relief programs alone accounted for over Dh625 million in expenditure, benefiting more than 53 million people globally.