Our team has just arrived back from Dubai, where they exhibited at DIHAD (Dubai International Humanitarian Aid & Development Conference), one of the biggest humanitarian conferences in the world. Over the course of 3 days, we spoke to leaders in the humanitarian sector, students passionate about making a change and other organisations making a difference.

Equipped with booklets, flyers and videos of the work we do, our stall attracted people from all corners of the globe. Conference attendees left with impact reports, our project portfolio and a USB with more information about the work we do. 

“You’re doing an amazing job! Keep doing what you’re doing.” 

We also had a ‘Gaza wall’, where people could scan a QR code to access a dedicated page with information about the situation in Gaza and the work we are doing in the region. 

Our Aims

The primary aim of attending DIHAD was to further our impact and expand our reach across the globe. We did this by networking with other charities and organisations, scoping opportunities for funding and building connections with NGOs and others in the humanitarian sector. We also aimed to raise awareness about the work we do in our areas of operation.

“It was incredible to meet likeminded people from around the world – from young students to fellow charities and NGOs – it was really reassuring to know there are other movements out there working hard to truly help people in need. We built strong connections at the conference and are excited to further our impact on a larger scale.” - Programmes Department   

The Conference 

The team began day 1 by introducing themselves to attendees, learning about other organisations and taking in as much as possible about fellow organisations.

Over the next 2 days, they set up meetings with organisations from across the world, which turned out to be a success. Speaking with stakeholders 1 on 1, they discussed our mutual aims for development and humanitarian impact. They also discussed ways we could collaborate. Many people were interested in the work we are doing in Palestine, specifically in Gaza.

"DIHAD was an incredible experience and a powerful opportunity to grow. We connected with passionate individuals and impactful NGOs from around the world, each united by a common purpose: to create meaningful change. The relationships we formed go beyond networking; they’re the foundation of helping others around the world. We're excited to see the impact of the conference in the near future and what it brings for GRF." - Marketing Department 

Along with NGOs and charities, there were many students from schools and colleges that were fascinated by the conference. Looking around, the team commented on how nice it was to see young people in a space focused on humanitarian aid and helping those in need.

Members of our programmes, fundraising and marketing departments commented on the conference and the impact it is expected to bring to GRF. As we continue our humanitarian aid work, we hope to continue exploring conferences such as DIHAD, where we can reach more people and work with some of the world’s best organisations to create real change.