UAE humanitarian bridge begins food aid airlift to Gaza

Flights carrying food aid to Gaza have begun operating from Al Maktoum International Airport on Friday under the Ahmed bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge.

The bridge, formed by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), in cooperation with Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, was launched to honour the legacy of the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The humanitarian bridge aims to deliver more than 10 million meals through seven shipments operating via air and sea transport.

The operation includes six flights carrying a combined 450 tonnes of food parcels and one vessel transporting 4,000 tonnes of food supplies.

"The launch of flights under the Ahmed bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge reflects the high level of efficiency and expertise of the Emirati teams involved in Operation Chivalrous Knight 3," said Al Hammoud Al Afari, Director of its UAE Relief Operations. 

The airlift follows the completion of meal preparations at a major community humanitarian event carried out by MBRGI and Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 in tribute to the late Sheikh Ahmed.

The community event attracted widespread participation, reflecting public appreciation for his humanitarian contributions.

مؤسسة "مبادرات محمد بن راشد آل مكتوم العالمية"، بالتعاون مع عملية "الفارس الشهم 3"، تبدأ تسيير رحلات جوية عبر مطار آل مكتوم الدولي محملة بالمساعدات الغذائية، وذلك ضمن "جسر أحمد بن راشد الإنساني" دعماً للأشقاء الفلسطينيين في قطاع غزة. pic.twitter.com/asHRwMKupT

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 9, 2026