Business
MBRGI Pledges AED36.7 Million to UNHCR Projects at Davos 2025
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) has committed AED36.7 million (USD 10 million) to support sustainable projects organized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) aimed at aiding forcibly displaced communities. This announcement was made during the World Economic Forum 2025 in Davos, Switzerland, bringing MBRGI's total contributions to AED163.6 million since 2021.
The cooperation agreement was signed by Saeed Al Eter, Assistant Secretary General of MBRGI, and Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, in the presence of Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary General of MBRGI. The partnership underscores MBRGI’s dedication to empowering displaced communities through sustainable initiatives that improve living conditions and align with global humanitarian efforts.
A Vision for Humanitarian Empowerment
Mohammad Al Gergawi remarked:
"This pledge embodies the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to support vulnerable communities globally, alleviating suffering and fostering empowerment. The UAE's principles of generosity and noble values continue to inspire this initiative, reinforcing MBRGI’s role as a global humanitarian leader."
He further emphasized MBRGI’s commitment to strong partnerships with UN agencies, aiming to bolster their efforts in alleviating suffering and empowering communities in need.
Filippo Grandi expressed gratitude for MBRGI’s unwavering support, stating:
"In a time of growing complexity in forced displacement, combined efforts like these are vital. MBRGI’s contributions enable us to address urgent needs and deliver sustainable solutions to improve the lives of displaced populations."
Tangible Impact Across the Globe
Since 2021, MBRGI has positively impacted over 700,000 refugees and displaced individuals across 13 countries, including Bangladesh, India, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Pakistan, and Syria. Key areas of focus include food, medicine, and infrastructure to enhance living standards in crisis-hit regions.
MBRGI’s humanitarian work spans five main pillars:
- Humanitarian Aid & Relief
- Healthcare & Disease Control
- Spreading Education & Knowledge
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship
- Empowering Communities
In 2023 alone, MBRGI invested AED1.8 billion, benefiting over 111 million people in 105 countries.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
During the World Economic Forum, MBRGI emphasized a proactive agenda for enhancing collaborations with international humanitarian organizations. Discussions between MBRGI and UNHCR explored new avenues to strengthen joint efforts, ensuring sustainable frameworks to address the increasing needs of displaced populations worldwide.
The strategic collaboration between MBRGI and UNHCR reflects a shared vision of improving the lives of underprivileged and displaced communities through innovative and impactful humanitarian solutions.