Imagine being ten years old and wanting to become a doctor—but not having a school to attend, a pencil to write with, or even a backpack to carry your dreams.
This is the reality for 7.2 million refugee children around the world today. While global leaders around the world argue about money and policies, these children are stuck, just waiting for their futures on pause. Education isn’t just about the long term; it’s a crucial way to support these kids, offering them a safe place and some hope for what’s next. In the UAE, forward-thinking companies like Companies for Good are responding with purposeful action, turning empathy into educational opportunity.
UAE: A Global Humanitarian Leader with a Focus on Education
Since 1971, the UAE has given around AED 360 billion (about USD 98 billion) in foreign aid, showing a strong commitment to help people, no matter who they are. The focus has always been on pure humanitarian work.
In 2024, the UAE reinforced its humanitarian leadership through significant initiatives. UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan launched the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative, setting aside AED20 billion (about $5.44 billion) for various humanitarian projects, showing the country’s strong dedication to helping people around the world.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UNICEF signed a deal to provide $7 million for humanitarian work in Sudan and South Sudan.
This government support makes it easier for UAE companies to get involved in programs for refugee education, showing that the private sector can play a role in the country’s humanitarian efforts.
Why UAE Companies Should Support Refugee Education
Smart companies in the UAE are starting to see the benefits of helping refugees get an education. Here’s why:
- Future Talent: The kids we help today could grow into creative workers tomorrow.
- Real Connections: When companies genuinely engage with the community, it resonates with customers who care.
- Stronger Community: Educated people help build better, more stable communities.
At Companies for Good, we’ve connected businesses with education initiatives, showing that supporting this cause can truly make a difference.
Helping Kids Learn, One Thoughtful Gift at a Time
Sometimes, the best help comes in the simplest forms. When AWS teamed up with us for a refugee education project, they didn’t just send regular supplies. Instead, their employees turned their volunteering into something meaningful.
The Human Touch Approach
AWS employees didn’t just buy school supplies—they made them. Each person put together personalised educational kits that included:
- Hand-decorated notebooks with fun felt covers.
- Customised water bottles with positive messages.
- Complete sets of stationery for learning.
- Thoughtfully chosen books and sturdy backpacks.
Beyond the Materials
What set this project apart wasn’t just the supplies but the thought behind each item. Every decorated notebook shared a message: “Someone believes in your dreams.” Each water bottle read: “Your education matters.”
The Moment of Connection
When these special kits reached the kids, something amazing happened. The joy on a little girl’s face—caught in our photos—was more than just happiness for new supplies. It showed that people she didn’t even know had taken the time and care to create something just for her.
This initiative in the UAE showed that helping refugees isn’t just about what we can give, but about the way we give it.
Your Company’s Role in This Movement
You don’t need a big company or have endless budgets of money to make a difference—it just takes a desire to help. Refugee kids can’t wait for the right time; they need books, classrooms, and hope right now.
At Companies for Good, we help businesses in the UAE act and support education programs that make a difference. When your team gets involved, you’re not just checking a box; you’re helping change the future for a child in need.
Let’s build something important together. Reach out to Companies for Good and find out how your business can help make a real change—because education is more than charity; it’s about making a difference.