More than 600 companies from 84 countries around the world are set to take part in the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition  (Dihad) 2018 opening in Dubai, UAE tomorrow (March 5).

The 15th edition of the event will run until March 7 at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre within a total area of 7,700 sq m.

Over 15000 visitors and participants from the region and abroad are expected to visit the premier global event, the first humanitarian aid and development event of its kind in the Middle East.

Ambassador Gerhard Putman-Cramer, director, Dihad International Scientific Advisory Board (Disab), said: “The current state of world affairs, with the rapidly growing number of victims of disasters and crisis, both man-made and natural, cannot continue and call for urgent preventive solutions and strategies.”

“According to the United Nations, there were nearly 102 million people in need for humanitarian assistance in 2015 but now recent estimates suggest that the number has grown to 142 million, in over 40 countries. As requirements are outgrowing resources, we need a comprehensive strategy to care for the needy, provide shelter and plan for millions of refugees who are currently inaccessible.

 “Dihad, with its prime focus on the theme of ‘Sustainability of Humanitarian Aid’, is on the right track to meet the needs of everyone affected by crisis and disasters. Dihad will witness the participation of leading Government decision makers, NGO’s, Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, Foundations, Charitable organizations and experts from the public and private sector, who will work on a roadmap for humanitarian assistance.

“Through its comprehensive agenda, the Dihad Conference, the pre-Conference Workshop and the Exhibition, will review critical issues related to humanitarian aid, focus on new challenges and methodologies of assistance and most importantly, the need to prioritize resources,” he added.

Dr Abdul Salam Al Madani, executive chairman of Dihad & DISAB said: “Dihad has always been at the forefront of topical humanitarian issues and, this year again, it will highlight a set of concerns now being universally recognized and increasingly addressed in a focused manner.

“Therefore, Dihad 2018 is held under the theme ‘The Sustainability of Emergency Aid; The Intensifying Search for the Appropriate Strategies, Methodologies and Resources to Meet the Global Humanitarian Challenges In The Years Ahead’, which comes in line with the official declaration of “Year of Zayed” in the UAE; a commemorate to the memory of the late Sheikh Zayed, which also showcases his impact and legacy, and promote the values that he displayed throughout his life and for the sustained humanitarian contribution throughout a number of projects and initiatives that continue to shape the bright future of present and future generations.”

Dihad is organized by Index Conferences and Exhibitions - member of Index Holding and supported by Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Est., the United Nations, the UAE Red Crescent Authority, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, International Humanitarian City, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai and Dubai Cares. – TradeArabia News Service