UAE Extends Lifesaving Humanitarian Aid to Gaza, Evacuating Hundreds of Patients in Partnership with WHO

 In a significant humanitarian effort, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), has evacuated 86 critically ill patients from the Gaza Strip to receive urgent medical treatment in Abu Dhabi. This group includes young children, individuals with cancer, and other patients in need of extensive medical care, who were accompanied by 124 family members for support during their treatment. This mission, which departed from Ramon Airport in Israel through the Kerem Shalom crossing, marked the UAE’s 22nd humanitarian evacuation operation from Gaza, underscoring the country’s ongoing commitment to assist those affected by the region's healthcare crisis.

A Lifeline Amidst Crisis

The UAE’s intervention comes at a critical time, providing essential care and resources to Palestinian patients amid limited medical facilities and severe healthcare shortages in Gaza. Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, the UAE's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development and International Organisations, expressed the significance of the mission, stating, “This new initiative reflects the strong levels of cooperation between the UAE and the World Health Organization, and exemplifies the UAE's steadfast and enduring commitment to support the brotherly Palestinians amidst the humanitarian catastrophe in the Strip.” Al Shamsi emphasized that the UAE is resolute in collaborating with the United Nations, international allies, and relief organizations to ensure comprehensive care and alleviate suffering wherever possible.

UAE’s Expansive Healthcare Commitment to Palestinians

This evacuation effort is part of a broader healthcare initiative championed by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who recently announced a mission to provide treatment to 1,000 children with injuries and 1,000 cancer patients from Gaza. Since the program’s launch, 2,127 individuals, including both patients and their families, have been evacuated to the UAE to receive necessary medical care, highlighting the UAE's dedication to offering critical care where it is needed most.

Since the UAE established its Field Hospital in Gaza in December 2023, over 50,000 patients have received treatment. The facility, based in the southern Gaza Strip, is equipped with medical professionals and advanced equipment to address both emergency and long-term medical needs. Additionally, in February 2024, the UAE introduced a floating hospital anchored at Al-Arish Port in Egypt, which has since treated more than 6,400 patients. These facilities have provided specialized medical care, helping alleviate the strain on Gaza’s health infrastructure, which is often overstretched and under-resourced.

Extensive Humanitarian Aid

Beyond medical evacuations, the UAE has provided over 43,000 tonnes of critical supplies, including food, medical resources, and other relief materials, to Palestinians. This large-scale assistance, carefully coordinated with various humanitarian organizations, aims to ease the suffering of families impacted by the ongoing crisis. The UAE’s comprehensive approach not only focuses on immediate medical care but also addresses broader humanitarian needs, ensuring that essential resources reach Gaza’s most vulnerable populations.

Partnering with WHO for Greater Impact

The partnership between the UAE and WHO has been instrumental in scaling the effectiveness of this humanitarian mission. With WHO’s support, the UAE has implemented efficient healthcare protocols, deployed experienced medical teams, and utilized logistical expertise to execute these evacuation and treatment missions. Together, they have achieved critical progress in bringing quality healthcare services to Gaza, including surgical interventions, cancer treatments, and pediatric care, which are essential yet scarce in the region.

Future Initiatives and a Steadfast Commitment

Looking forward, the UAE’s humanitarian mission remains steadfast. In addition to its current medical evacuations and field operations, the UAE continues to explore innovative healthcare solutions and advanced technology to support Gaza’s healthcare system. Through the “Gallant Knight 3” operation, launched earlier by President Sheikh Mohamed, the UAE aims to broaden its support to Palestinian families, addressing the humanitarian needs stemming from ongoing crises.

The UAE's humanitarian strategy exemplifies its commitment to fostering resilience and stability through both immediate relief and long-term solutions. With initiatives like this, the UAE hopes to inspire a broader, collaborative approach to humanitarian assistance, extending a lifeline to communities that require urgent and sustained aid. Through its partnerships and comprehensive aid programs, the UAE remains dedicated to delivering crucial assistance to the people of Gaza, building a bridge of hope and compassion that transcends borders.