The effort is being organised by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, in coordination with World Food Programme. MBRGI has committed AED 43 million in food aid to support one million people in Gaza under this campaign. Officials expect the meal packages to reach those facing acute shortages as winter approaches and ongoing conflict exacerbates hunger and displacement.
Mohammed Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of MBRGI, described the humanitarian ship as “a symbol of the boundless generosity that defines the UAE and its leadership”. He said the campaign reflects a belief that solidarity and humanitarian support can turn suffering into hope. He added that the organisers anticipate strong community participation from citizens and residents across the UAE.
This drive follows the recent resumption of food aid deliveries to Gaza, which began earlier this month after border crossings reopened. MBRGI had announced at the start of November that new aid convoys, backed by WFP, would deliver essential food parcels and relief supplies to families in need. That commitment built on an earlier pledge in 2023 of AED 50 million in emergency support for Palestinians.
The humanitarian aid reaching Gaza has taken multiple forms, from land convoys delivering staples and shelter supplies to plans for sea-borne humanitarian relief through the dedicated ship. The current sea-drive aims not only to supply food but also to send a broader message of solidarity and support from UAE residents to Palestinians enduring dire conditions.
Critics argue that while such aid is vital, the scale of need in Gaza remains staggering. With displacement widespread and infrastructure devastated, international observers note that food, shelter, and medical aid must scale up significantly to avert deeper crisis. MBRGI’s latest commitment, though substantial for a private-sector philanthropic effort, may still cover only a fraction of the population in hunger.
Supporters say the initiative demonstrates the UAE’s capacity to mobilise rapid, large-scale humanitarian response, leveraging both public participation and institutional backing. Volunteers stepping forward to pack millions of meals underscore a grassroots dimension, even as official pledges and institutional partnerships help coordinate logistics.
The forthcoming aid ship is among the largest privately organised humanitarian efforts directed at Gaza this year. If fully realised, the operation could mark a milestone in coordinated Gulf-based assistance — delivering food at scale while spotlighting the role of private foundations and civil society in supplementing state-led aid.
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