UAE Evacuates 57 Patients from Gaza in Latest Humanitarian Mission
Abu Dhabi — The United Arab Emirates has carried out an urgent medical evacuation of 57 patients from the Gaza Strip, accompanied by their family members, as part of its ongoing humanitarian campaign, ‘Operation Gallant Knight 3.’ This operation, initiated in October 2023 under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, reflects the nation’s unwavering commitment to supporting civilians affected by the conflict in Gaza.
With this latest mission, the total number of evacuated individuals has reached 2,961, including patients and their companions. These individuals have been transported to UAE hospitals to receive comprehensive medical treatment, advanced healthcare services, and psychological support aimed at ensuring their recovery and rehabilitation.
The medical evacuation was conducted via Ramon Airport in Israel and the Karam Abu Salem border crossing, in close coordination with international and regional authorities to ensure the safe and efficient transfer of patients. This marks the 29th medical evacuation organized by the UAE International Aid Agency (UIAA) under the ongoing humanitarian initiative.
The UAE’s humanitarian operations in Gaza are part of a broader effort to alleviate civilian suffering, uphold human dignity, and contribute to regional stability amid one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent years. The country’s long-standing humanitarian vision prioritizes rapid medical response, sustainable health recovery, and logistical support for vulnerable populations.
Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi, Vice Chairman of the UAE’s International Aid Agency, reaffirmed the UAE’s steadfast humanitarian stance, emphasizing that the country remains committed to helping people affected by crises and conflicts worldwide. “The UAE continues to act swiftly and compassionately to ensure early recovery, ease human suffering, and restore hope to families enduring hardship,” he said.
He added that the evacuation of patients from Gaza underscores the UAE’s proactive approach to global humanitarian action and its dedication to coordinating with international partners to deliver effective relief measures. Al Shamsi noted that the UAE’s operations are being carried out with the assistance of multiple national entities, ensuring that aid, medicine, and medical staff reach those most in need.
As part of its ongoing humanitarian framework, the UAE has also deployed multiple medical facilities and logistics networks to assist civilians affected by the conflict. Among these are the UAE’s floating hospital, anchored off the coast of Arish, Egypt, and the UAE field hospital in southern Gaza, both of which are playing vital roles in providing emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation services. These facilities are staffed by specialized doctors, nurses, and volunteers from various nationalities working under the UAE’s humanitarian mission.
The UAE’s relief efforts extend beyond emergency medical aid. The nation has also coordinated over 80 airdrops and five major land convoys carrying more than 2,300 tonnes of humanitarian supplies, including food, medicine, and shelter materials for displaced families. These missions have been executed under the parallel initiative ‘Birds of Goodness’, highlighting the UAE’s comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach to crisis response.
The UAE’s humanitarian work in Gaza has been widely recognized by global organizations for its efficiency, scale, and compassion. International agencies, including UNICEF and the World Health Organization, have praised the UAE’s leadership in global charity, particularly its focus on vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly, who are among the most affected by the ongoing conflict.
Through ‘Operation Gallant Knight 3’, the UAE aims to treat 1,000 wounded Palestinians and 1,000 cancer patients, ensuring that they receive advanced care in UAE hospitals. This initiative reflects the values of solidarity, generosity, and humanitarian responsibility that lie at the heart of the UAE’s foreign aid policy.
By combining logistical excellence with medical expertise and international cooperation, the UAE continues to serve as a model of humanitarian action in times of crisis. Its tireless efforts in Gaza not only provide immediate relief but also foster long-term recovery and stability for thousands of affected families — reaffirming the nation’s enduring role as a beacon of hope and compassion in the region.