UAE aid efforts to focus on health and schools

ABU DHABI // Foreign aid from the UAE will be spread across the globe in the next few years, according to the head of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation.

The charity plans to distribute its donations equally across all countries and continents, said Ahmed Al Dhaheri.

Countries where the foundation has no presence will be targeted first, followed by nations in which it has done little work.

"Like Greenland, for example," Mr Al Dhaheri said. "We must cooperate with Denmark and ask, 'what are you doing in Greenland?' Then the UAE will be present across the world, through us and other charities."

The foundation wanted to work in Mexico this year but communication channels have yet to be opened with the government, delaying the plans.

"In Korea, relations are great, but the foundation does not work there yet," Mr Al Dhaheri said.

"Some continents have bigger populations, so distribution won't be the same. I cannot spend on Europe as much as I do in Africa.

"But we cannot sideline a continent. We need reasonable presentation of aid, in terms of ratio."

The foundation also aims to step up aid to neighbouring countries.

The aid efforts and funds will be distributed equally among health, education, relief, and development sectors.

The main focus for next year will be on humanitarian aid, Mr Al Dhaheri said.

"With development work, we will be picky."