Dubai: Dubai hosted a series of high-level strategic meetings bringing together humanitarian leaders, experts, representatives of international organisations and key stakeholders to discuss the future of humanitarian action ahead of the 22nd Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference & Exhibition (DIHAD 2026).The discussions focused on some of the most pressing humanitarian challenges facing the world, including conflicts, climate-related disasters, economic pressures, displacement, funding shortages and difficulties in reaching affected communities.As part of the preparations for DIHAD 2026, the Executive Humanitarian Programme was launched in collaboration between DIHAD Sustainable Organisation and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) UAE at the Dubai World Trade Centre.The programme serves as a platform for senior humanitarian leaders and decision-makers to examine emerging challenges, align priorities, exchange perspectives and contribute to shaping discussions ahead of DIHAD 2026.Key topics included:Structural changes in the global humanitarian systemHumanitarian diplomacy and the evolving role of governmentsHumanitarian financing and donor policiesPrivate-sector and philanthropic engagementArtificial intelligence and data governanceInnovation and sustainable humanitarian solutionsEng. Khaled Al Attar, Director-General of DIHAD Sustainable Organisation, said the humanitarian sector is at a critical turning point that requires moving beyond traditional response models."Humanitarian action is at a pivotal moment, requiring us to move beyond traditional response models towards approaches that are more proactive, collaborative and sustainable," he said.He stressed the importance of strengthening international partnerships and harnessing innovation and technology to develop solutions that address the root causes of crises and improve community resilience.In parallel, the DIHAD International Scientific Advisory Board (DISAB) held its annual meeting at the Dubai World Trade Centre under the chairmanship of Amb. Prof. Abdulsalam AlMadani, Chairman of DIHAD Sustainable Organisation and Chairman of DISAB.The meeting brought together representatives from leading international organisations, governments, humanitarian agencies, academic institutions, the United Nations and the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement.Discussions centred on the theme of DIHAD 2026, titled: "Humanitarianism in Transition: Shaping the Future of Humanitarian Action."The Board reviewed the conference programme, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, fireside chats and case-study presentations addressing emerging humanitarian and development issues.Organisers also highlighted the diversity of the speaker programme, which features:51% male speakers49% female speakersGeographical representation includes:Asia: 42%Europe: 29%Africa: 15%Americas: 14%Speakers will represent a broad cross-section of the humanitarian ecosystem, including:NGOs: 31%Governments: 24%UN agencies: 15%Private sector: 15%Red Cross and Red Crescent organisations: 9%Academia: 6%Officials said the meetings reinforce the UAE's position as a global hub for humanitarian dialogue, international cooperation and sustainable humanitarian solutions.The 22nd edition of DIHAD is organised by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions Org., a member of INDEX Holding, and officially opens on Monday.
