Humanitarian journey continues as Sheikh Zayed's legacy inspires Emirati community: ERC
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)Every year on Zayed Humanitarian Day, the UAE and its institutions renew their pledge to bring help to the needy and the vulnerable. True to the legacy of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Emirates Red Crescent Authority (ERC) has been creating hope and touching millions of lives around the world. Until March 2025, more than 393 million people in 153 countries have benefitted from the authority's humanitarian and development projects, according to the Emirates Red Crescent's Development and International Cooperation Sector Achievements Report."The UAE offers all forms of support to people on all fronts, without any discrimination based on religion, race, or culture, confirming to all communities that the humanity of the Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed, will remain deeply rooted among all people across the continents of the world," said Dr. Mohammed Salem Al Junaibi, Director of the Emirates Red Crescent Centre in Sharjah.The ERC attributes much of its humanitarian initiatives' success to its volunteers."The Emirates Red Crescent Authority is proud of the efforts of volunteers and their effective role in enhancing programmes and initiatives," said Shimaa Atef, Senior Web Editor at the ERC."Over the past years , volunteers have represented the authority's soft humanitarian power. They have been contributing and donating to all aspects of charitable and humanitarian activity," Atef said. This year, several initiatives are lined up, including iftar for the people of Gaza and Zakat Al-Fitr during the holy month of Ramadan."We also have initiatives that coincide with the Year of Community in the UAE, under the banner 'Hand in Hand', to enhance effective contributions to community service, volunteering, and implementing influential initiatives that consolidate the culture of shared responsibility," Atef said.On Zayed Humanitarian Day, the ERC honours "the noble values that Sheikh Zayed instilled in the hearts of the Emirati people"."[This occasion] embodies the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in promoting giving and humanity. The Emirates Red Crescent's message on this day highlights ... the UAE's pioneering role in global humanitarian efforts and the importance of fostering a culture of giving and volunteering within society. It also honours the tireless efforts of humanitarian workers and launches unique initiatives that reflect Emirati generosity," Atef said.The UAE has strengthened its humanitarian efforts and development initiatives around the world, thanks to the support of its wise leadership.
"The celebration of Zayed Humanitarian Day affirms the continuation of the humanitarian journey in its highest forms and the cohesion of the Emirati community, along with its heritage and principles, which were inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan," Al Junaibi said.
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