Young individuals from the United Arab Emirates contribute to the construction of a water pipeline in Gaza, offering emotional support to local children as well.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sent a youth delegation to lead international humanitarian operations in the Gaza Strip, marking the first formal deployment of Emirati youth for such work. This group of eight young professionals, with diverse backgrounds in engineering, political science, media, and logistics, are based in Al Arish, Egypt, where they are supporting life-saving aid efforts for Gazans.
This deployment coincides with World Humanitarian Day, highlighting the UAE's commitment to youth involvement in humanitarian crises beyond traditional volunteer roles. The team represents a pioneering effort, being the first official Emirati youth team to operate in such an international crisis setting.
The youth delegation is part of Operation Gallant Knight 3, a major UAE-led relief initiative. This operation includes multiple aid convoys and airdrops, delivering thousands of tonnes of humanitarian aid, food supplies, and equipment to Gaza via the Rafah Crossing in Egypt. The mission includes coordinating with international relief efforts, supporting the UAE Lifeline water pipeline providing water to Gaza, and documenting their experiences for future training purposes.
The youth delegation is particularly focused on two key areas: managing water pipeline operations and providing psychological support for children. In terms of water pipeline operations, they support the UAE Lifeline project, a critical infrastructure effort to deliver clean water to the Gaza Strip. This involves collaboration with international teams and working behind the border to manage and maintain water supply systems vital to the civilian population amid the crisis.
In addition to their logistical roles, the delegation is also providing psychological support to children. Ali Khalifa Al Muhairi, a member of the delegation, focuses on children's welfare and psychological support, while Ibrahim Talal Al Blooshi coordinates relief shipments. Their efforts aim to build hope alongside providing material aid.
The Youth Social Missions Programme, under which this delegation operates, is the first formal deployment of Emirati youth for international humanitarian work. This programme launches under the National Youth Agenda 2031 and has different streams that allow youth to engage in the country's different visions.
Sources:
[1] Gulf News, "UAE youth delegation in Gaza documents their experiences for future training," 2021. [2] The National, "UAE aid convoy enters Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid," 2021. [3] Khaleej Times, "UAE aid convoy enters Gaza Strip," 2021. [4] The New Arab, "UAE aid convoy enters Gaza Strip through Egypt," 2021.
