Dubai: The 22nd Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition (DIHAD 2026) concluded today at Dubai World Trade Centre, assembling a diverse array of humanitarian organisations, government entities, international institutions, experts, academics, technology providers, and private-sector representatives.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event, held under the theme "Humanitarianism in Transition: Shaping the Future of Humanitarian Action," dedicated its third and final day to "Delivering Impact: Operationalising the Future of Humanitarian Action." This segment highlighted efforts to convert humanitarian strategies, knowledge, and innovation into practical actions and measurable outcomes.
The programme emphasized strengthening preparedness and response mechanisms, enhancing operational effectiveness, and developing sustainable solutions for communities affected by crises and disasters. The day also featured the International Emergency and Catastrophe Management (IECM) Conference themed "Future-Ready Action: Translating Innovation into Measurable Resilience," bringing together experts in emergency, crisis, and disaster management to explore how innovation and technology can bolster preparedness and resilience.
Over 250 entities participated in the IECM Conference, including government organisations, emergency response agencies, humanitarian partners, and technology providers. The programme featured 61 speakers and 59 sessions addressing emerging challenges in emergency and crisis management and disaster response. More than 7,500 participants from 52 countries attended, including government officials and representatives of emergency management authorities, civil defence organisations, healthcare institutions, and NGOs.
Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services had the largest local stand, while IMRES held the largest international stand. High-level roundtable meetings hosted by the UAE Aid Agency facilitated discussions on humanitarian priorities and opportunities for strengthening coordination.
DIHAD Glasshouse / Limitless provided a platform for innovative ideas and initiatives, while the Humanthropy Academy focused on education, research, and capacity building. The Humanthropy Awards recognized individuals and organisations for contributions across various humanitarian fields. Ayesha Al Mazrouei received the Humanthropy Emerging Humanitarian Leader Award for her leadership in international cooperation. The IFRC, Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia), and Al Jalila Foundation were among the awardees for their outstanding contributions.
Jagan Chapagain, Secretary-General and CEO of IFRC, was honored with the Humanthropy Personality of the Year Award for his global humanitarian leadership. A total of 12 recipients were recognized at the Humanthropy Awards 2026 for contributions ranging from emergency response to innovation and peacebuilding.
DIHAD 2026 focused on strengthening partnerships, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting a more coordinated humanitarian approach. The event underscored innovation, preparedness, collaboration, resilience, and impact measurement as essential elements for developing adaptive and sustainable humanitarian systems.
The conference reinforced Dubai's position as a global platform for humanitarian dialogue and coordination, contributing to international efforts to build a more effective and resilient humanitarian system.