Dubai:Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Humanitarian has initiated a new air bridge aimed at supporting humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza. The operation's first flight, carrying essential supplies and thermal winter blankets for UNICEF, has successfully arrived in Al Arish, Egypt.

According to Wam, the air bridge consists of multiple flights managed by the Dubai Royal Air Wing utilizing C-130 aircraft. Each flight is loaded with approximately nine metric tonnes of humanitarian supplies. At least three additional flights are planned in the coming days to deliver blankets for children and other vulnerable groups, assisting families in preparing for the impending winter.

Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Chairman of Dubai Humanitarian Authority, emphasized the challenges winter poses for families already facing significant hardships, particularly children. He stated that the first shipment facilitated by this new air bridge had arrived in Al Arish and is set for onward transfer to Gaza. This operation underscores Dubai Humanitarian's longstanding role as a global hub that unites humanitarian partners, supports their efforts, and ensures aid reaches those in need.

The shipment also marks the first coordinated sourcing order under the UN80 Integrated Supply Chain Approach. This approach unites United Nations agencies to enhance joint sourcing and delivery of humanitarian supplies. Facilitated by Dubai Humanitarian in partnership with its collaborators, the initiative highlights the importance of coordinated planning in expediting humanitarian operations and improving aid delivery efficiency.

Since 2023, Dubai Humanitarian has supported relief efforts in Gaza by facilitating humanitarian airbridges, land convoys, and sea shipments. Working with international humanitarian partners, they ensure the swift and efficient delivery of essential supplies through multiple transport routes.