The Emirates Agency for International Aid has announced a significant initiative to support the reintegration of returnees to Afghanistan during its participation in the EDEX 2026 exhibition and conference on humanitarian aid and disaster relief held in Geneva on 21-22 October. The agency revealed a $3 million collaboration agreement with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) aimed at aiding the resettlement and protection of individuals returning to Afghanistan, particularly focusing on women and children. This funding is set to provide durable, climate-resilient housing for approximately 2,950 people in the provinces of Kabul, Herat, and Kunduz.
Commitment to Humanitarian Efforts
This agreement aligns with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to promote early recovery and deliver sustainable solutions for internally displaced persons and returnees, thereby contributing to the stability of communities affected by humanitarian crises. The Emirates Agency for International Aid presented a dedicated exhibit at the conference, showcasing the UAE’s approach to foreign aid and highlighting key humanitarian initiatives, including “Operation Gallant Knight 3” in Gaza and the Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women, which aims to support and empower refugee women economically and socially.
Global Commitment and Strategic Partnerships
Dr. Tariq Ahmed Al Amiri, Chairman of the Emirates Agency for International Aid, delivered a keynote address affirming the UAE’s commitment to maintaining its global humanitarian and developmental role. He emphasised the importance of strengthening international partnerships, developing innovative funding models, and investing in sustainable solutions to enhance communities’ resilience in facing and recovering from crises.
Strengthening Collaboration and Innovation
During the conference, the agency engaged in bilateral meetings with numerous international organisations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), among others. These discussions aimed to expand the scope of cooperation and strategic partnerships, improve responses to humanitarian crises, and utilise artificial intelligence and modern technologies to predict and mitigate disaster risks while developing innovative solutions for the most vulnerable communities.
Roundtable Discussion on Sustainable Housing Solutions
In collaboration with UNHCR, the agency also organised a roundtable titled “Housing Solutions Post-Displacement: From Temporary Shelter to Recovery and Reintegration.” This discussion focused on transitioning from temporary humanitarian aid to sustainable housing solutions and underscored the need for partnerships with the private sector and donors to support the stability of refugees, internally displaced persons, and host communities.
Conclusion
The participation of the Emirates Agency for International Aid in EDEX 2026 reflects the UAE’s commitment to enhancing its presence in international humanitarian forums and translating its commitments into tangible initiatives and projects that contribute to improving the lives of communities affected by crises. It reinforces the UAE’s dedication to international collaboration for sustainable development.