UNICRI participated in the 22nd Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development (DIHAD) Conference and Exhibition, which took place from 24 to 26 August 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, United Arab Emirates.
UNICRI joined other United Nations agencies in the United Arab Emirates as an exhibitor at the UN Pavilion, where it had the opportunity to present the Institute’s work and engage with representatives from international organizations, governments, civil society, academia and the private sector.
Held under the theme “Humanitarianism and Transition: Shaping the Future of Humanitarian Action,” DIHAD 2026 brought together more than 21,000 delegates and attendees from over 165 countries and over 1,000 organizations. Participants included representatives of United Nations agencies, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, international and local non-governmental organizations, government authorities and public institutions, the private sector, charitable foundations and academia.
The conference provided a platform for discussions on evolving policies, strategies and approaches to humanitarian action and rapid response. Alongside the conference, the exhibition showcased technologies, logistics and emergency response solutions for humanitarian and crisis settings. Workshops, networking opportunities and partnership-building sessions further promoted dialogue and cooperation across sectors.
In connection with DIHAD, Heba Mariey, UNICRI Programme Management Officer and Regional Coordinator for the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries, also participated in the International Emergency and Catastrophe Management (IECM) Scientific Board Annual Meeting on 23 August 2026, in her capacity as a member of the Scientific Board.
The annual meeting brought together Board members to share their expertise and perspectives and contribute to ensuring the continued relevance, scientific quality and impact of IECM.
UNICRI’s participation in DIHAD provided an opportunity to strengthen dialogue and partnerships at the intersection of security, crisis preparedness and humanitarian action, while showcasing the Institute’s work and expertise to an international audience.
About DIHAD
Since its inception in 2004, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development (DIHAD) Conference & Exhibition has evolved into the World’s Leading Global Platform for Humanitarian Aid and Sustainable Development.
For more than two decades, DIHAD has stood at the forefront of humanitarian dialogue, bringing together decision-makers, global leaders, practitioners, policymakers, innovators, and frontline responders from around the world. It serves as a dynamic ecosystem where ideas transform into action, partnerships flourish, and collective efforts address the most urgent humanitarian and development challenges of our time.
DIHAD is more than an event – it is a global movement committed to advancing resilience, innovation, and collaboration across borders and sectors to create sustainable solutions that leave no one behind.
Theme-Led. Future-Focused.
Each edition of DIHAD is guided by a dedicated annual theme, ensuring focused dialogue that reflects evolving global humanitarian and development priorities. These themes shape the conference agenda, inspire collaboration, and drive forward-looking solutions across the humanitarian landscape.
2026 Edition Theme
Humanitarianism in Transition: Shaping the Future of Humanitarian Action
