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.

As part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing humanitarian efforts, a new aid convoy has arrived in the Gaza Strip, provided by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center. This convoy is part of the Saudi public campaign to aid the Palestinian people in the Strip, and specifically targets children to help them cope with the harsh winter weather.

General context and humanitarian importance

This support comes at a critical time when the residents of the Gaza Strip, especially children, are facing escalating humanitarian and living challenges. The dire economic conditions and the ongoing blockade cast a shadow over all aspects of life, making access to even the most basic necessities, such as warm clothing, a struggle for many families. This need becomes even more urgent with the drop in temperatures, as children in displacement camps are at risk of contracting cold-related illnesses. Winter aid is therefore not merely financial support, but a vital necessity for protecting their health and well-being.

Details of the convoy and the integrated support program

The convoy carried a large quantity of winter clothing for children of all ages. The support extended beyond material aid to include a comprehensive recreational and psychological program. This program is being implemented in cooperation with the field teams of the Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage, the implementing partner of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center in Gaza. The program aims to alleviate the psychological effects of the crises on children through recreational and educational activities that help them recapture a part of their childhood and prepare them psychologically for returning to school after a long absence.

The role of the Kingdom and the King Salman Relief Center

This convoy is an extension of a long history of aid provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Palestinian people over the decades. Since its establishment in 2015, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center has been tasked with unifying and coordinating Saudi relief efforts internationally, positioning the Kingdom as a leading global humanitarian force. This ongoing support reflects the Kingdom's commitment to the values ​​of brotherhood and human solidarity, and embodies its mission to stand by its brothers and friends in times of hardship and crisis, without religious or ethnic discrimination.

Expected impact of aid

At the local level, this aid directly contributes to providing warmth and protection for children and alleviating the financial burden on their families. The accompanying psychological support also plays a pivotal role in strengthening children's resilience and ability to cope. At the regional and international levels, these initiatives enhance the Kingdom's image as a key player in humanitarian work, underscore the importance of international solidarity in addressing humanitarian crises, and highlight the dire situation in the Gaza Strip, thus encouraging further donor support.