The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has urged warring factions in Sudan to halt hostilities during Ramadan, emphasizing the sanctity of the holy month and the need for unhindered humanitarian assistance. The move has received overwhelming support from Sudanese expatriates and community leaders in the UAE, who see it as a lifeline for families caught in the conflict.
The UAE’s call for a ceasefire comes as part of its ongoing efforts to support Sudan, including an additional $200 million humanitarian aid package announced last week at a high-level conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This brings the UAE’s total aid contributions to Sudan to $600.4 million since April 2023.
During the conference, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, stressed the need for a temporary halt in fighting to facilitate the safe distribution of humanitarian aid to those most affected by the war.
Sudanese Expats Praise UAE’s Generosity and Ceasefire Initiative
Sudanese community leaders in the UAE have lauded the country’s unwavering support for Sudan, describing the ceasefire proposal as a crucial step toward relief and stability.
Mohamed Baha Al Deen, Chairman of the Sudanese Community and Club in Abu Dhabi, emphasized the significance of the UAE’s humanitarian approach, saying:
“This support signifies true brotherhood. The UAE has always stood by Sudan during difficult times. Their aid package will bring hope and relief to many families. We also appreciate their call for a Ramadan ceasefire—it’s essential for ensuring aid reaches those in need.”
Dr. Al Amin Jaffar Taha, Chairman of the Sudanese Community in Dubai, echoed similar sentiments:
"We are immensely grateful to the UAE’s leadership and its people for their continuous support. Since April 2023, Sudanese families have endured severe hardships. This ceasefire initiative is a vital step toward offering relief and security during Ramadan.”
Urgent Need for a Ceasefire Amid Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
The UAE’s humanitarian commitment extends beyond financial aid, as it actively pushes for peace and stability in Sudan. The proposed Ramadan ceasefire is seen as a crucial measure to allow safe access to food, medical supplies, and other essential resources.
Murtada Al-Zaylaie, Vice-President of the Sudanese Community in Sharjah, highlighted the importance of both financial assistance and conflict resolution:
“The UAE has been a long-time ally of Sudan. Many Sudanese families are struggling with financial hardships, and this aid will provide critical relief. The ceasefire proposal is equally important—it would ensure people have access to food, healthcare, and shelter during Ramadan.”
Expats Call for Respecting the Sanctity of Ramadan
As Ramadan approaches, Sudanese expatriates in the UAE are urging all warring parties to honor the spirit of peace and unity by ceasing hostilities and allowing aid organizations to operate without interference.
Sudanese media personality and Goodwill Ambassador Aida Abdel Hamid commended the UAE’s leadership for its compassionate humanitarian efforts, stating:
“The UAE has a long history of helping those in need. This generous pledge is another testament to their commitment to humanitarian causes. We fully support their call for a ceasefire—our families desperately need a break from the violence.”
Aisha Abdullah, another Sudanese community member, underscored the importance of prioritizing the well-being of women and children caught in the conflict:
“This assistance will alleviate the hardships faced by the most vulnerable groups. The ceasefire would ensure access to food and safety for those suffering the most.”
Hopes for Lasting Peace and Stability
While the UAE’s call for a Ramadan ceasefire has been widely supported, many Sudanese expats believe it should be a stepping stone toward a broader peace agreement.
Dr. Rayan Abdullah Abid, a Sudanese resident in Abu Dhabi, described the UAE’s support as a beacon of hope for struggling families:
“This is not just financial aid—it’s about restoring dignity and hope to thousands of Sudanese people. The proposed ceasefire is a crucial step that could save many lives.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Dr. Mohamed Osman Omar, another Abu Dhabi-based Sudanese expatriate, emphasized:
“The UAE has consistently supported us in difficult times. This Ramadan, their generosity has been evident once again. The ceasefire proposal is a beacon of hope for our families back home.”
A Plea for Peace: ‘Lay Down Arms During Ramadan’
Many Sudanese community members in the UAE are hopeful that the warring factions will heed the UAE’s call and respect the spirit of Ramadan by laying down arms, even if only temporarily.
Umaima Hussein, a Sudanese resident in Sharjah, concluded:
“The UAE has once again demonstrated its commitment to humanitarian causes. We deeply appreciate their support. The ceasefire proposal is essential—our families back home need peace, even if only during Ramadan.”
Looking Ahead: Will Warring Factions Agree to the Ceasefire?
While the UAE’s humanitarian aid and ceasefire proposal have received strong backing from the Sudanese diaspora, the response from warring parties remains uncertain. The coming weeks will determine whether Sudan’s leadership will embrace this opportunity for peace and humanitarian relief.
For now, Sudanese expatriates in the UAE remain hopeful that Ramadan—a time for reflection, compassion, and unity—will serve as a catalyst for a temporary truce, ensuring that those suffering the most receive the assistance they desperately need.
