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International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council

UAE PC

H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Chairman, International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council (IHPC)

Generosity is a core part of the UAE’s identity, a tradition established by the founding father the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who reminded us that wealth carries no value unless it reaches those in need. Today, the UAE’s leadership has carried forward this longstanding tradition with humility, foresight, and global purpose, committed to uplifting lives and advancing sustainable development in areas burdened by crisis or inequality.

Today, we stand at a pivotal moment. The challenges facing vulnerable communities are more complex, yet our collective potential to respond is stronger than ever. Through the UAE’s foreign aid ecosystem, we are deepening collaboration, refining our shared vision, and strengthening our impact—together.

Our focus is clear: to enhance the effectiveness, alignment, and innovation of the UAE’s foreign aid sector. By bringing people and institutions together under one national platform, we are not only continuing the legacy of compassion, we are shaping a future defined by dignity, resilience, and hope.

Together, we build on the UAE’s legacy, pioneering solutions, standing with humanity, and striving for a world where aid is not only generous, but transformative.

H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and IHPC Board Members in a meeting

Vision and Purpose of the Council

Established by federal decree in January 2024, the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council (IHPC) is the UAE’s first entity to unify the foreign aid ecosystem under one strategic platform, providing guidance, coordination and governance for the UAE’s global aid efforts.


Vision: Establishing the UAE’s position as a global leader in international development and promoting the dignity and prosperity of communities.


Purpose: Inspired by the UAE’s steadfast approach, we harness our capabilities, resources, and relationships to stand with fellow communities, working alongside our partners to achieve a lasting and sustainable impact for the benefit of humanity.



Guiding Principles of the UAE’s Foreign Aid System

Commitment to the achievement of the UAE's national interests and strategic priorities
Ensure that the Council’s work reinforces the UAE’s broader foreign aid policy and development, humanitarian and charity objectives, supporting the nation’s global vision and reputation.
Enhancing impact, sustainability and innovation
Prioritise initiatives that create lasting change and promote a culture of innovation and improvement, emphasising sustainable development and resilience of communities.
Integrating aid programmes to create economic opportunities
Integrate economic diplomacy by leveraging the UAE’s status as a global trade hub to stimulate economic partnerships through trade and investment opportunities.
Driving efficiency and effectiveness in the implementation, funding and monitoring of foreign aid
Streamline processes through inter-entity and cross-sector collaboration, using best practices to maximise impact, avoid duplication, leverage expertise, and achieve a unified approach.
Building long-term strategic partnerships in international development
Build and nurture alliances with diplomatic and trade partner countries, international organisations and other stakeholders, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to global cooperation, security and regional stability.
Upholding transparency, integrity and ethical standards
Implement mechanisms for open decision-making, clear reporting and accountability, upholding the highest ethical standards to ensure that resources are managed responsibly and to build trust among stakeholders.

Initiatives

The Aid Foresight Programme

The Aid Foresight Programme, organised by the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council (IHPC) through the Office of Development Affairs, is a series of masterclasses held in Abu Dhabi from 29 September to 4 October 2025. The programme brought together international experts to lead sessions on topics including innovation and leadership, data and analytics in humanitarian and development aid, geopolitics, regional development cooperation in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, partnerships and resources, climate and health diplomacy, and innovative financing. Built around four pillars—education, capacity building, experience sharing, and strategic networking—the programme represents the first initiative of its kind within the UAE’s aid ecosystem and aims to enhance humanitarian leadership across UAE entities.

DIHAD Youth Circle

During the 2025 Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference (DIHAD), the Emirates Humanitarian Youth Council hosted a Youth Circle titled “Emirati Youth and Humanitarian Volunteering: A Vital Role in Times of Crisis.” The session brought together high-level officials including H.E. Khalid Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Authority, and H.E. Hamoud Al Junaibi from the Emirates Red Crescent, along with young changemakers from the humanitarian field. The event explored the power of youth-led volunteering during crises and the growing role of Emirati youth in shaping humanitarian response.

Ramadan Iftar in Humanitarian City

As part of the Emirati Values Iftar Initiative, the Emirates Humanitarian Youth Council organised a special Ramadan Iftar for 2,500 Palestinians from Gaza residing in Emirates Humanitarian City. The gathering brought Emirati youth and Palestinian families together in a shared moment of compassion, community, and solidarity. The event encouraged meaningful cultural exchange and reinforced the Council’s commitment to humanitarian values through inclusive, youth-led outreach.

Members of the Council

Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy
Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy

Minister of State for International Cooperation

His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi
His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi

Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development & Chairman of the Exports Executive Committee for Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX)

His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi
His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi

Minister of Foreign Trade

His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan
His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan

Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

His Excellency Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri
His Excellency Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri

Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

His Excellency Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili
His Excellency Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili

Secretary-General of Erth Zayed Philanthropies

His Excellency Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri
His Excellency Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri

Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency

Office of Development Affairs — Presidential Court

The Office of Development Affairs (ODA), operating under the Presidential Court of the United Arab Emirates, serves as the central coordinating body for international development, humanitarian, and philanthropic initiatives. The Office leads in shaping policy, overseeing programme design, and ensuring coherence in aid efforts. Through close collaboration with government entities, international organisations, and philanthropic partners, ODA works to align the country’s global contributions with its strategic priorities.

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