Dubai aids Palestinian Refugees
October 1, 2007
Despite its location on the Persian Gulf, Dubai is often considered a very “westernized” state. The state, part of the United Arab Emirates, is known for its tolerance of other cultures and beliefs. It is also known for its liberal policies, which often create tension with neighboring countries, such as Iran. Then again, anyone who has a positive relationship with the United States seems to be an enemy of Mr. Mahmud Ahmadinejad.
Like other Middle Eastern countries, Dubai has amassed wealth from oil exportation. The UAE boasts a high standard of living and Dubai attracts tourists from around the world to its ritzy hotels and trendy night clubs. (See The New York Times travel article below).
The government of Dubai is using its wealth and liberal policies for positive global change with its Dubai Cares program. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and vice president and prime minister of the UAE, launched the program to contribute to the U.N.’s Second Millennium Development Goal, which seeks to achieve universal primary education. The Dubai Cares plans to educate one million children in poor countries.
The Sheikh announced Sunday that the program would finance the education of 10,000 Palestinian children living in refugee camps in northern Lebanon. The financial aid is the Sheikh’s response to a worldwide appeal made by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on behalf of the 5,5000 children displaced from the Nahr El- Bared Camp to the Al-Baddawi Camp.
And they’re not messing around. This funding will get things done: it will cover everything from installation of pre-built school buildings, reparation of old buildings, appointment of social workers and psychologists, transportation for students and a multitude of other scholastic necessities.
Karen Koning Aby Zayd, UNRWA Commissioner General, said in a press release: ‘We have found a solid partner in Dubai Cares to assist refugees with their educational needs. The first generous contribution will enable UNRWA to cover the full education requirements in northern Lebanon.”
BBC Country Profile: The United Arab Emirates: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/country_profiles/737620.stm
The New York Times: Dubai on a Budget, No It’s Not a Mirage:
http://travel.nytimes.com/2007/03/11/travel/11pracdubai.html
Dubai Cares: http://www.dubaicares.ae/eng/aboutus/default.asp
Press Release from Dubai Cares Program: http://www.ameinfo.com/133477.html
