UAE answers UNHCR’s appeal to aid asylum seekers in Greece

The UAE has responded to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees’ appeal to alleviate the conditions of asylum seekers and refugees in Greece.

Loading 60,000 blankets from UNHCR’s global stockpile in Dubai to UNHCR’s operations in Greece. This flights were donated by the UAE Government through IHC. A Kahel / UNHC

ABU DHABI // The UAE has responded to an appeal by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to alleviate the conditions of asylum seekers and refugees in Greece.

After directives from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, about 90 tonnes of blankets, valued at Dh1.3 million, were sent to the country.

The UNHCR made its appeal as tens of thousands of refugees faced winter conditions.

The air bridge started its operations from Dubai Royal Airwing on October 27 with four aircraft transporting the aid to Thessaloniki Airport.

“In a clear demonstration of humanitarian leadership, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s assistance to UNHCR, and those that have risked their lives to reach safety, is truly remarkable,” said Nabil Othman, UNHCR’s acting regional representative.

“For many, the choice to embark on such dangerous journeys [is to] give their children a chance of survival and safety.”

UNHCR’s winter plans also include targeted provision of emergency shelters such as family tents, refugee housing units and emergency reception facilities, and supporting efforts to improve reception, waiting areas and preparing or adapting them to winter conditions.

It is estimated that this year alone more than 500,000 refugees have reached Greece by sea.

The latest figures from Greece bring the total number of refugees and asylum seekers who have crossed the Mediterranean this year to about 752,000, including nearly 609,000 to Greece, 140,200 to Italy and 2,797 to Spain.