UAE pledges $500m in humanitarian aid for Sudan at US donors’ conference

The United Arab Emirates has pledged $500 million in humanitarian assistance for Sudan, as international efforts continue to address the worsening crisis caused by the country’s ongoing civil war.

The commitment was announced during a US-hosted donors’ conference for Sudan, with the UAE delegation led by Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State. The funds are intended to help meet urgent humanitarian needs, as more than half of Sudan’s population now requires assistance.

Speaking at the conference, Ms Nusseibeh thanked the United States for convening the meeting at what she described as a critical moment, particularly with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan approaching. She said the UAE’s contribution reflected a long-standing commitment to ensuring civilians affected by the conflict can access life-saving aid.

She said more than 30 million Sudanese are in need of humanitarian support, adding that the UAE’s pledge would complement US efforts to address the growing crisis. Ms Nusseibeh also praised the role of United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and its head, Tom Fletcher, in coordinating international relief efforts.

The UAE reiterated its support for an immediate ceasefire, stressing that humanitarian assistance must not be politicised or used as a tool of conflict. Ms Nusseibeh also highlighted the need for dedicated humanitarian and development projects to support women and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.

She said the UAE’s position, shared with partners through the QUAD grouping, remains that Sudan’s future must be determined by its people, calling for a civilian-led, inclusive transition process independent of warring parties and extremist groups.

The UAE said its support for Sudan is long-standing, noting that it has provided more than $4.24 billion in assistance to the country over the past decade, including almost $800 million in humanitarian aid since 2023.

Following the conference, Ms Nusseibeh also took part in a QUAD meeting with senior US envoy Massad Boulos, alongside representatives from Saudi Arabia and Egypt, to discuss next steps in supporting humanitarian access and political efforts to end the conflict.