The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is playing a key role in the ongoing Gaza peace process, according to Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy, who spoke at the Mediterranean Dialogues Conference 2025 in Naples, Italy, from October 15 to 17. Al Hashimy highlighted the UAE’s significant humanitarian contributions to Gaza, totaling $1.8 billion in aid since the conflict began.
At the conference, Al Hashimy emphasized the need for collective regional efforts to make the peace process durable. She noted that the UAE, along with other regional partners, including Qatar, Türkiye, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, are working closely with European and American allies to end the suffering in Gaza and build a lasting peace.
Gaza Peace Process and Humanitarian Efforts
The UAE has been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts in Gaza, providing critical aid to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. According to Al Hashimy, the UAE has sent over 8,000 aid trucks, established hospitals, and built desalination plants to ensure the survival and dignity of the people in Gaza.
However, the situation remains fragile, and Al Hashimy acknowledged the challenges ahead. She emphasized that Palestinians should be governed by Palestinians, highlighting discussions in Paris on creating an international stabilization force to support Palestinian institutions and security structures through regional cooperation with Jordan and Egypt.
Regional Cooperation and Security
Al Hashimy also discussed the UAE’s approach to regional security, describing it as pragmatic but firm. She noted that the UAE rejects extremism in all forms and is committed to treating everyone with dignity, regardless of nationality or faith. The minister highlighted the UAE’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the region, including its role in the Abraham Accords.
The Abraham Accords, which celebrated their fifth anniversary recently, have been a significant development in the region, aimed at reshaping the Middle East through peace and coexistence. Al Hashimy described peace with Israel as a “strategic and irreversible choice” and emphasized the importance of open dialogue, even in difficult times.
Bilateral Relations and Economic Partnerships
The UAE is also strengthening its bilateral relations with other countries, including Italy. Al Hashimy praised the partnership between the UAE and Italy under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s leadership, citing major projects such as a data center partnership between Eni and UAE’s Fresna, and a regional electricity pipeline linking Albania, Italy, and the UAE. The two countries are also negotiating a comprehensive economic partnership with the European Union.
In addition to its regional efforts, the UAE is investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI), recognizing its potential to drive development in education, healthcare, and other sectors. Al Hashimy noted that the UAE is committed to ensuring that AI serves the needs of its people and promotes equitable development.
As the international community looks to the future, the UAE remains committed to its humanitarian efforts and regional cooperation. According to Al Hashimy, the UAE will continue to work towards a more stable and peaceful region, driven by its commitment to peace, dignity, and shared prosperity.
With the situation in Gaza remaining uncertain, the next steps in the peace process will be closely watched. The international community will be looking to regional partners, including the UAE, to continue their efforts towards a lasting peace. As Al Hashimy noted, “We owe it to our children to leave them a world better than the one we inherited.” The UAE’s ongoing efforts and commitment to regional cooperation will be crucial in shaping the future of the region.
