Dubai Humanitarian (DXBH), known as the world’s largest humanitarian hub, premiered its documentary “For Humanity” at the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA) in Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. The event included a panel discussion titled “The Future is Now: Leveling Up Humanitarian Action from the Heart of Dubai to the World.”
The documentary “For Humanity” presents the growth and transformation of Dubai Humanitarian as a central platform for global humanitarian coordination and innovation. The film details the process of delivering aid from Dubai to crisis-affected regions and highlights the collective efforts and mission of the organization to improve humanitarian response.
Giuseppe Saba, CEO and Board Member of Dubai Humanitarian, gave opening remarks after the screening. He discussed Dubai’s culture of giving, which he attributed to the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed. Saba described Dubai Humanitarian’s collaborative environment involving academia, private sector, philanthropists, and international partners. He emphasized: “Our aid knows no borders, our responsibility knows no limits and our readiness for the future must be unwavering.” This statement referenced the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
The keynote address was delivered by H.E. Rashed Al Hemeiri, Executive Director of Operations at UAE Aid. The subsequent panel discussion was moderated by journalist Mustafa Alrawi and featured H.E. Bérangère Boëll, United Nations Resident Coordinator for the UAE; Dr. Fuzan Al Khalidi, Director of Programs and Initiatives at Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI); Stephen Anderson, Director of the WFP UAE Office and Representative to the GCC Region; and Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President at Emirates SkyCargo.
Panelists discussed changes in humanitarian response due to factors such as climate change and conflict. They identified key themes including UAE leadership in promoting humanitarian values, the importance of collaboration for a more agile response system, leveraging innovation and technology such as logistics data platforms and AI tools, and strengthening global cooperation for more effective aid delivery.
The panel highlighted contributions from organizations like Emirates SkyCargo in air transport, WFP’s operational experience, and MBRGI’s relief work. These examples demonstrated how cross-sector partnerships in Dubai are influencing future approaches to humanitarian aid.
The event ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to building a connected humanitarian network that supports Dubai’s mission to deliver aid globally.
