In a testament to its unwavering humanitarian mission, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Foundation (MBRGI) has continued its vital support for displaced communities in India through collaborative programs with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). A recent delegation visit to New Delhi highlighted the ongoing impact of these joint efforts, aimed at improving food security and empowering refugees to rebuild their lives.
The two-day field visit was organized by UNHCR in partnership with MBRGI and brought together representatives including Mohammed Al Yamahi, Project Director at MBRGI; Saudi singer and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Aseel Omran; and UNHCR’s Head of Private Sector Partnerships, Bissan Salameh. The delegation visited refugee families from Afghan, Rohingya, and Chin communities to better understand their needs, share moments of solidarity, and witness the impact of ongoing support.
During the visit, the team toured the Bosco Community Centre in New Delhi, where they were briefed on current refugee assistance efforts. These include food distribution, vocational training, and support for small businesses—all part of the broader strategy to foster self-reliance among refugees. Several of these livelihood projects have been made possible through direct support from MBRGI.
The visit also included hands-on participation in food aid distribution both at the community center and in the homes of families unable to attend, reflecting the organization’s people-first approach.
Strategic and Sustainable Humanitarian Work
Ibrahim Al Balooshi, Director of Sustainability and Partnerships at MBRGI, emphasized that the foundation remains committed to enhancing the lives of forcibly displaced populations. “Our mission is to implement ambitious programs that not only meet immediate needs like food and shelter but also empower individuals to lead independent lives through education, health services, and entrepreneurship support,” he said.
Aseel Omran, who accompanied the delegation, called the visit a deeply emotional and eye-opening experience. “We heard powerful stories from people who lost everything but remain hopeful. Their resilience is inspiring, and it highlighted the urgent need for both psychological and material support,” she noted.
Bissan Salameh echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the partnership between MBRGI and UNHCR serves as a global model for humanitarian cooperation. Since 2021, this partnership has provided life-changing aid to hundreds of thousands across Asia and Africa, thanks to MBRGI’s substantial contributions.
Impact in Numbers
By the end of 2024, MBRGI had contributed over AED 136 million (USD 37 million) to UNHCR’s programs, directly benefiting more than 750,000 refugees and displaced individuals. In India alone, the foundation has invested more than AED 29.7 million (USD 8.1 million) to support over 100,000 refugees, focusing on sustainable livelihoods and food support.
MBRGI’s broader humanitarian footprint is equally impressive. In 2024 alone, the foundation spent over AED 2.2 billion, reaching 149 million people across 118 countries. Its five-pillar approach—humanitarian aid, healthcare, education, future innovation, and community empowerment—positions it as the largest philanthropic organization of its kind in the region.
A Model for Global Humanitarian Partnership
The success of this initiative in India reaffirms the potential of strategic partnerships in tackling some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. By combining financial support with on-the-ground collaboration, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and UNHCR are not only delivering aid—they are restoring hope and building resilience for those who need it most.
