United Arab Emirates

UNHCR first established a presence in the United Arab Emirates in 1986 to strengthen its partnership and engagement with the Government and support individuals who need international protection. Since then, UNHCR has worked closely with the Government of the UAE to support refugees and displaced persons worldwide through a range of life-saving projects across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

UNHCR has a longstanding partnership with Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, the wife of Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation, and UNHCR’s Eminent Advocate.

UAE hosts UNHCR’s largest Global Stockpile, located at the International Humanitarian City (IHC) in Dubai. It enables UNHCR to respond to crises, mobilize relief items, and transport them in less than 72 hours to refugees and internally displaced people worldwide. For more information, visit UNHCR’s Supply chain management.

Additionally, UNHCR has fostered innovative and sustainable partnerships with different entities in the UAE to diversify their networks and expand the funds raised. These range from foundations such as The Big Heart Foundation, Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, and Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education, in addition to private corporates such as Accenture, Landmark Group, Etihad Airways, Dubai Duty Free, and others. In addition to building strong relationships with individuals and well-known figures in the UAE.

Additional information

For information about our work in the United Arab Emirates: