Ahmed bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge launches airlift operations to Gaza
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives commences flights carrying food assistance through Al Maktoum International Airport, honouring the legacy of the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
The Ahmed bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge has commenced airlift operations, with flights carrying food aid departing through Al Maktoum International Airport as part of a comprehensive humanitarian response to support Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The initiative represents a poignant tribute to the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose legacy of generosity and philanthropy continues to guide the United Arab Emirates’ charitable endeavours.
The launch follows the completion of an extraordinary community humanitarian event organised by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives in cooperation with Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 at Dubai World Trade Centre. This remarkable gathering saw the preparation of more than 10 million meals destined for Gaza residents, reflecting the breadth of public participation and appreciation for the late Sheikh’s enduring contributions to humanitarian causes.
The bridge will operate through an integrated logistics approach comprising seven shipments: six flights carrying 450 tonnes of food parcels combined, and one vessel transporting 4,000 tonnes of food supplies. These provisions are carefully designed to address the fundamental food requirements of the Palestinian population in Gaza.
Hammoud Al Afari, Director of UAE Relief Operations under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, described the humanitarian bridge as a significant extension of the Emirates’ charitable initiatives. He emphasised the paramount importance of community engagement in realising humanitarian objectives, noting that collaborative efforts in preparing and delivering food assistance exemplify the nation’s commitment to those in need. The efficiency and expertise demonstrated by Emirati teams involved in Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 has established a leading model for humanitarian response throughout the region.
Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, launched in November 2023 under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has emerged as an essential lifeline for Palestinians in Gaza. Since its inception, the operation has delivered humanitarian assistance valued at more than United States dollars 4 billion, representing 46 percent of global humanitarian aid to Gaza since 2023. This assistance comprises 130,708 tonnes of relief, medical and food supplies, delivered through 796 aircraft, 25 ships and 14,483 trucks.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, the region’s largest foundation dedicated to humanitarian, relief and community development, encompasses more than 30 initiatives and institutions working across humanitarian, social and development sectors. The foundation’s 2025 expenditure exceeded AED2.3 billion, positively impacting approximately 165 million beneficiaries across 122 countries, with humanitarian aid and relief programmes exceeding AED625 million.
Source: WAM