Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to international humanitarian action and called for stronger donor partnerships and more effective aid delivery mechanisms during the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Donor Support Group expert-level meeting in Geneva.

The Kingdom was represented by Dr. Aqeel Al-Ghamdi, Assistant Supervisor General for Planning and Development at the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, who underscored the importance of enhanced coordination between the donor community and OCHA to ensure that assistance reaches populations most in need.

In addressing representatives from around thirty member states, Dr. Al-Ghamdi stressed that transparent prioritisation of resources and strengthened international cooperation are essential to overcome the widening funding gap facing the global humanitarian system.

He highlighted humanitarian diplomacy as a critical instrument in facilitating access to populations affected by crises and disasters, emphasising Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic role in securing humanitarian corridors and facilitating the entry of food and medical supplies during crises, including efforts tied to Sudan and Gaza.

Participants in the meeting reviewed OCHA’s ongoing ‘reset plan’ reform agenda and discussed strategies to improve coordination, support local partners in affected countries and set clear humanitarian priorities against the backdrop of expected budget constraints in 2026. The Kingdom’s delegation also advocated for robust mechanisms to ensure aid is both timely and impactful, noting that sustained donor solidarity and strategic partnerships are key to maintaining effective humanitarian responses.

Saudi Arabia’s statements at the meeting reflect its broader humanitarian policy under the guiding principle of ‘People First,’ reaffirming its role as a committed supporter of multilateral humanitarian efforts and collaborative global action to alleviate human suffering.