UAE stands tall in development aid yet again

It is a concrete example of effective leadership and vision that the country continues to demonstrate

For the second year running, the UAE has topped the world ranking for global donors of development aid according to a report released by the Development Assistance Committee at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This acknowledgement sits perfectly with the UAE’s founding principles of humanitarianism, that forms the bedrock for its impressive growth and achievements. Figures for 2014 reveal that the UAE donated Dh18.36 billion, an amount that is 1.26 per cent of its gross national income, towards global development issues, a span that covers over 41 countries.

This is a concrete example of effective leadership and vision in a geopolitical climate that is characterised more by the lack of global role models and ineffective aid policies with even the developed nations dithering on how to resolve urgent issues of the human condition. Whether it be initiating water projects for people in water-scarce regions, providing children around the world with access to education, strengthening the grass roots of health care in developing countries or addressing the needs of millions displaced by war, strife and natural disasters, the UAE is enhancing the quality of life of millions across the globe. In so doing, it is also underlining a critical reality — that intent and implementation must be yokeds. It’s a strategy the UAE has employed with impressive skill to attain its goals and as its progress proves, they always bear fruit.