Dubai, UAE – Dr. Hanan Balkhy, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, recently visited Dubai Humanitarian, highlighting the collaboration between the two entities in addressing global emergencies such as those in Gaza and Sudan.
During her visit, Dr. Balkhy met with Dubai Humanitarian and WHO staff to recognize their efforts in supporting WHO’s mission to provide critical health services during emergencies. She toured various facilities, including warehousing and development centers, observing the support provided by Dubai Humanitarian that facilitates swift responses to urgent health needs.
Giuseppe Saba, CEO of Dubai Humanitarian, emphasized their support for WHO’s mission: “We are proud to support WHO in its vital mission to deliver health services during emergencies.” He highlighted the partnership’s effectiveness through initiatives like the Humanitarian Logistics Databank during past crises such as COVID-19 and earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.
Dr. Balkhy remarked on the partnership’s strength: “WHO’s partnership with Dubai Humanitarian exemplifies the strength of collective action in addressing regional and global health emergencies.” She noted that resources from this collaboration have been crucial in delivering timely aid.
The visit also focused on recent emergency responses where Dubai Humanitarian organized 17 air shipments for Gaza through Egypt, transporting significant aid primarily for WHO. Discussions aimed at strengthening future collaborations were held to enhance humanitarian action through best practices and innovations.
