Chairmans Message

While many countries in Africa continue to face major challenges from violent conflicts, poverty, unemployment and negative effects of climate change, and with the sudden spread of the COVID 19 pandemic, which undoubtedly increased the burden on all humanitarian and charitable organizations and slowed down the efforts of some bodies to deliver humanitarian relief in light of such a crisis, there has never been a more conducive time to focus our attention on the humanitarian response to such crises and explore viable solutions to tackle these issues. Therefore, I am extremely delighted to announce that the 17th edition of DIHAD will be held this year under the theme ‘Aid and Coronavirus, a focus on Africa’ where we will shed light on the problems and crises caused by the outbreak of the COVID 19 in Africa –the continent which is a global hub for the largest aid and development organizations in the world.

There is no doubt that the emerging Corona virus had a great impact on the economy and resources of countries around the world. The effects of this pandemic caused a health crisis and shock in countries with strong health systems but its impact was deeper and greater in countries with limited medical resources and capabilities such as a number of African countries.

The UAE leaders and its people have always been known for their generous humanitarian work, as the country believes that goodness is greater when its wider and more comprehensive. Thus, at DIHAD, we aim to establish an ideal platform to address the most pressing needs of people living in oppression in many African countries, while attracting local and international assistance programs and awareness campaigns by leading aid organizations to achieve prosperity in the ‘humanitarian continent’.

In order to achieve this, DIHAD 2021 will bring together this year the biggest donors, concerned actors, major UAE based charities and foundations like Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), the Dubai Future Council on Humanitarian Aid, the Mohammed Bin Rashid al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, the Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department, the Emirates Red Crescent Authority, the United Nations, Dubai Cares and International Humanitarian City, in addition to international bodies like Red Crescent and Red Cross Movements, NGOs, IMF, OECD, Organization of Islamic Cooperation and other entities to further explore the most urgent needs of people facing huge humanitarian challenges in Africa and to benefit from their experiences and expertise in different fields.

On this occasion, I would like to thank all our strategic partners, key stakeholders, leading UN bodies, speakers, experts, companies, institutions and exhibitors for their continuous support and contribution over the last years and sincerely hope that DIHAD 2021 will play a key role in fulfilling its core objectives in serving the needs and challenges of people in need.

I look forward to seeing you all in DIHAD 2021 and hope you enjoy your stay in our beloved country- UAE and the beautiful city of Dubai!