New data from Dubai Humanitarian highlights the devastating impact of conflicts and disasters on children, with over $137 million in aid distributed across 106 countries in 2024.
A Year of Unprecedented Humanitarian Challenges
Dubai Humanitarian, the world’s largest humanitarian aid hub, has released new findings from its Humanitarian Logistics Databank, revealing the significant strain global crises placed on vulnerable populations, particularly children. The organisation reported that more than $137 million in aid was dispatched to 106 countries in 2024, responding to large-scale humanitarian emergencies. The figures demonstrate an alarming rise in child-focused aid needs, particularly in regions suffering from conflict, economic instability, and climate-related disasters.
Underreported crises in Yemen, Pakistan, and several African nations led to a surge in aid requests. Food security assistance for children saw a fourfold increase, rising from $5 million in 2023 to $19.6 million in 2024. Likewise, education aid experienced a threefold rise, from $320,000 to $1.2 million, as prolonged conflicts and economic hardships disrupted schooling and left millions of children without access to education.
Breakdown of Aid Distributed in 2024
- Health Aid: Over $40 million nearly one-third of all aid was allocated to healthcare supplies, medical equipment, and emergency response efforts.
- Food Security Aid: This category experienced the most significant rise, with assistance growing from $5 million in 2023 to $19.6 million in 2024. A large portion of this aid went towards child nutrition, including 54.6 million sachets of food supplements formulated for children as young as six months old.
- Education Aid: With schools destroyed or inaccessible, the demand for educational materials surged, leading to a sharp increase in funding from $320,000 to over $1.2 million.
- Shelter Aid: Nearly one-third of total aid $31.7 million was dedicated to providing temporary and permanent housing solutions for displaced populations.
- Water and Sanitation Aid: Essential clean water and sanitation support remained consistent at $3.2 million, addressing health and hygiene needs in disaster-stricken areas.
The Urgent Need for Continued Support
Giuseppe Saba, CEO of Dubai Humanitarian, highlighted the scale of the crisis:
“2024 presented one of the most challenging years for global humanitarian efforts. Our data confirms that children were disproportionately affected, facing severe shortages of food, shelter, and education. Through our collaboration with UN agencies and humanitarian partners, we delivered aid to those in desperate need, but the growing demand for support particularly in child-focused aid emphasises the necessity of sustained efforts.”
Walid Ibrahim, UNHRD Network Coordinator, echoed this urgency: “The UN Humanitarian Response Depot (UNHRD), operated by WFP, worked with over 22 organisations to mobilise life-saving assistance to major emergencies, including in Afghanistan, Gaza, Lebanon, and Yemen. In addition to responding to crisis zones, we also supported ongoing humanitarian operations in 65 countries worldwide. The effectiveness of this response was made possible by anticipatory action, collaborative efforts, and the unwavering commitment of Dubai Humanitarian and the UAE Government.”
Advancing Humanitarian Aid Through Data and Innovation
Dubai Humanitarian launched the Humanitarian Logistics Databank in 2018 to enhance global emergency response. The platform offers real-time tracking of humanitarian aid stocks and distribution flows, allowing for better preparedness and faster deployment of resources.
As the world faces increasing humanitarian challenges, Dubai Humanitarian continues to play a critical role in coordinating aid and responding to emergencies. With a strong focus on children, the organisation remains committed to ensuring that the most vulnerable receive the support they need.
