Dubai marks Humanitarian Day with gathering at IHC

The international humanitarian community gathered at Dubai's International Humanitarian City (IHC) on Friday to observe World Humanitarian Day 2023.

The gathering came together keeping in mind the theme of '#NoMatterWhat', as declared by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

World Humanitarian Day annually pays homage to the dedication and efforts of humanitarian workers who tirelessly extend aid and assistance to vulnerable populations across the globe, irrespective of challenges or adversities.

IHC’s activations are located in Dubai Festival City (DFC) on Saturday, 19 August and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) from Monday, 24 August onward.

Giuseppe Saba, CEO of IHC, said, "Today, on World Humanitarian Day, we remember the 20th anniversary of the tragic attack on the UN headquarters in Baghdad. This solemn occasion honours the 22 UN staff members who lost their lives, and the numerous aid workers who were injured."

"At Dubai's International Humanitarian City, we also mark two decades of giving and proactive support for global humanitarian endeavours. We have evolved into a thriving hub of collaboration that facilitates impactful assistance to communities in dire need. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to compassion and progress, united in the mission to make a lasting difference," he added.

Dr. Dena Assaf, UN Resident Coordinator for the UAE, said, “Today we pay tribute to all those who continue to serve hundreds of millions of people in need around the world, no matter who, no matter where and no matter what. As the United Nations Resident Coordinator for the UAE, I have witnessed the remarkable power of collective action in responding to global crises. Together, we shape a future of hope, resilience, and empathy—a testament to our shared humanity."

"We express our gratitude to the International Humanitarian City (IHC) for fostering unity among humanitarians and facilitating the United Nations' global relief efforts from the world's largest humanitarian hub, located in Dubai, UAE. Additionally, we recognize the UAE's generous support for hosting the United Nations at IHC and its unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid and emergency relief worldwide.”