In a testament to its leading humanitarian role, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its humanitarian arm, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, continues its tireless efforts to support affected populations around the world. As part of these endeavors, the Center launched two simultaneous relief initiatives targeting the most vulnerable groups in both the Republic of Sudan and the Gaza Strip, aiming to alleviate the suffering caused by the humanitarian crises afflicting these two brotherly nations.

Supporting food security in Sudan

Amid the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has displaced millions and led to a severe decline in food security, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center distributed 1,000 complete food baskets in the Suakin locality of Red Sea State. This urgent assistance targeted the most vulnerable families and displaced persons, benefiting approximately 6,500 individuals. This initiative is part of the “Food Security Support Project in the Republic of Sudan,” a strategic program aimed at providing basic food needs, preventing widespread malnutrition, and contributing to the stability of conflict-affected communities.

Warmth and hope for the children of Gaza

In the Gaza Strip, where residents are suffering from dire humanitarian conditions exacerbated by the winter cold, the center continued its efforts to support the education sector and children. Its field teams, in cooperation with the Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage, distributed winter clothing to students in schools and educational centers in the northern Gaza Strip. The initiative was not limited to material support; it also included organizing recreational activities for students to provide them with psychological and social support and bring smiles to their faces amidst the harsh conditions they are enduring. This aid is particularly important in providing warmth and protection for children and encouraging them to continue their education.

Saudi Arabia plays a leading role in global humanitarian work

These projects are an extension of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s long and distinguished record in relief and humanitarian work. Since its establishment in 2015, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre has been coordinating and delivering Saudi international aid, based on firm humanitarian principles and without discrimination. The Centre has implemented thousands of projects in dozens of countries around the world, covering vital sectors such as food, health, water, sanitation, and education, reflecting the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to alleviating human suffering and promoting peace and stability at both the regional and international levels.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has achieved a remarkable humanitarian milestone, ranking second globally and first in the Arab world in providing humanitarian aid for 2025, according to data released by the United Nations Financial Tracking Service (FTS). This advanced ranking underscores the Kingdom's pivotal role on the international stage as one of the largest supporters of relief and development efforts.

Specifically, the Kingdom topped the list of the largest donors to Yemen, with its aid constituting 49.3% of the total assistance provided, reflecting its deep commitment to alleviating the humanitarian suffering there. It also ranked second among donor countries to the Syrian Arab Republic. Its role was not limited to emergency humanitarian aid, but extended to development assistance, where it ranked second among 16 non-member donor countries of the Development Assistance Committee (DAC), and tenth among all 48 donor countries (members and non-members), according to the 2024 report.

Historical background and institutional role

This achievement is not a recent development, but rather the culmination of a long history of humanitarian aid that the Kingdom has consistently provided. This role witnessed a qualitative leap with the establishment of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief) in 2015, which has become the Kingdom's leading institutional arm for managing and coordinating international relief efforts efficiently, transparently, and in accordance with international standards. Through the Center, the Kingdom has implemented hundreds of projects in dozens of countries around the world, targeting vital sectors such as food security, health, education, water, and environmental sanitation.

Strategic importance and impact

The importance of this humanitarian role extends beyond simply providing material support, reaching strategic and political dimensions. Regionally, Saudi aid contributes to strengthening stability in conflict zones and mitigating the severity of humanitarian crises that could lead to widespread displacement and destabilize neighboring countries. Internationally, this role enhances the Kingdom's standing as an active and responsible force in the international community and reinforces its image as a nation committed to humanitarian principles and a reliable partner for international organizations such as the World Food Programme, the World Health Organization, and UNICEF.

In this context, His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah, Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, affirmed that the Kingdom's leading role in the global humanitarian arena is a direct result of the generous and unwavering support that humanitarian work receives from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz. Dr. Al-Rabeeah noted that this achievement is a true reflection of the Kingdom's illustrious history of giving, embodying the values ​​of generosity and benevolence inherent in the Saudi people, and their constant commitment to extending a helping hand to all peoples and nations in need, placing human dignity and life above all else.