UNHCR first established a presence in the United Arab Emirates in 1986 with the objective of strengthening its partnership and engagement with the Government and to support individuals who are in need of protection globally. Since then, UNHCR has worked closely with the Government of the UAE in support of refugees and displaced persons through life saving projects across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East as a reflection of the people of the UAE’s generosity and empathy.

UNHCR has fostered sustainable partnerships with entities in the UAE over the past years. These range from the UAE Government, and local foundations such as The Big Heart Foundation and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, local corporates such as Al Tayer and Landmark, and high net worth individuals such as Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi.