DIHAD

DIHAD (Dubai International Humanitarian Aid & Development Conference and Exhibition) is one of the world’s foremost global humanitarian aid and development forums, held annually in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, DIHAD brings together international organisations, NGOs, government entities, private sector partners and humanitarian leaders to advance collaboration, innovation and sustainable solutions that address pressing global crises and development challenges. Gulf Today+1

For more than two decades, DIHAD has provided a comprehensive conference and exhibition platform where practitioners from across the humanitarian ecosystem — including United Nations agencies, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, foundations, charities, emergency response teams and suppliers of technology and services — convene to share knowledge, forge partnerships and explore cutting-edge solutions for relief, recovery and long-term development.

The event’s programme typically features high-level discussions, keynote sessions, technical workshops and expert panels that cover strategic topics such as humanitarian diplomacy, sustainable innovation, disaster response, climate resilience, funding models, localisation and cross-sector cooperation. These sessions provide thought leadership and practical insights for practitioners, policymakers and stakeholders working to enhance the effectiveness and impact of global humanitarian action.

Alongside the conference, DIHAD’s exhibition component showcases a wide range of products, technologies and services used in humanitarian and emergency contexts — including logistics platforms, medical and shelter solutions, communication and data systems, and other critical equipment that supports effective crisis response and development programmes. The exhibition floor facilitates business engagement, solution comparisons and direct interaction between suppliers and implementers in the field.

DIHAD attracts a global audience of tens of thousands of participants from well over a hundred countries, representing international NGOs, governmental bodies, charity organisations, academic institutions and private sector innovators. It has grown into a central hub for networking and strategic dialogue, driving cooperation between sectors to respond to complex humanitarian challenges and promote sustainable development worldwide.

Whether you are part of an aid organisation, a government agency, a technology provider or an academic institution focused on humanitarian impact, DIHAD offers an immersive, collaborative environment to exchange ideas, showcase solutions and build partnerships that accelerate global efforts to support vulnerable communities and improve resilience.