The United Arab Emirates has been elected to the World Food Programme’s (WFP) Executive Board for the 2026–2028 term, amid growing concerns about global food security and growing risks associated with traffic disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, which could cause acute hunger for tens of millions of people. The election highlights the UAE’s crucial position in the global humanitarian ecosystem. The largest humanitarian logistics hub of the UN is housed in Dubai, which is well situated close to Jebel Ali Port and connected to international supply chain support networks. When marine lanes are impeded, this posture makes it possible to quickly reroute humanitarian aid.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the UAE additionally established an international air bridge and activated alternate land pathways to transfer vital supplies to over 100 countries. Despite delays impeding the delivery of tens of thousands of tons of relief, the UN Humanitarian Response Depot in Dubai continues to activate alternate land, sea, and air pathways to guarantee life-saving assistance reaches affected populations across Asia and Africa.
With its admission to the WFP Executive Board, the UAE has changed from being a major donor to a strategic partner, reflecting its goal of eradicating hunger worldwide. Additionally, it reaffirms its dedication to creating more resilient food systems and integrating humanitarian response with sustainable development. “Our membership on this Board strengthens the UAE’s role in shaping the strategic direction of the World Food Programme,” stated Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, the UAE’s permanent representative to the UN. Innovation, effective logistics, and robust food systems will be at the center of the global response both now and in the future.
The election in the United Arab Emirates takes place at a crucial time since oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has drastically decreased since February 28, 2026, due to growing threats to maritime security in this crucial waterway and mounting attacks on regional states.
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