The UAE’s financial aid to millions of Syrian refugees has passed Dh1.34 billion.
Almost 4 million refugees from the civil war in Syria have poured into bordering countries, with humanitarian aid crucial to the survival of many.
Latest figures from the Ministry of International Cooperation and Development show more than Dh220 million was given through the Regional Response and Syrian Humanitarian Assistance Response plans last year.
“We have been in constant coordination with our partners, both locally and internationally, who are working tirelessly to alleviate the conditions of Syrian refugees, and making a positive difference in their lives,” said Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of International Cooperation and Development.
“Every effort counts, and the UAE is proud to step up and play its role in helping others.”
The funds were used to provide food, health, water, sanitation and education.
The UAE was one of the first countries to respond to the crisis, for which the death toll is estimated to be more than 220,000.
It has provided humanitarian aid to those displaced inside Syria, and those who fled to Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Turkey.
This year the President, Sheikh Khalifa, launched Tarahamu, a campaign to provide relief for refugees affected by Storm Huda, the severe snowstorm that hit the Levant region late last year.
Supported by Emirates Red Crescent, the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation and Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, Tarahamu provided Dh257m of food supplies, winter clothes, blankets and other aid.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid is Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.
Hundreds of thousands of refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Palestine benefited from Tarahamu.
The ERC has also set up a camp for displaced Syrians in northern Iraq, with a capacity for 4,000 people.
The UAE has also established a field hospital in the Jordanian town of Mafraq, which receives more than 800 cases a day.
“The UAE is committed to supporting the victims of the Syrian crisis through humanitarian and development programs that aim to improve their lives,” Sheikha Lubna said.
“On the fourth anniversary of the Syrian crisis, and with no viable solution to the conflict in sight, it is imperative that we continue supporting in every possible way those that have been displaced.”
newsdesk@thenational.ae