The world’s humanitarian landscape is undergoing a transformation, with traditional donors like the United States and some European countries reducing their foreign aid commitments. The Trump administration’s downsizing of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and significant cuts to international organizations have left many aid recipients scrambling for alternative sources of funding. In this shifting environment, Saudi Arabia has stepped up its role as a global humanitarian leader, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to alleviating suffering and fostering development.

As the Islamic world enters the final ten days of Ramadan, a period traditionally marked by increased charity and zakat payments, Saudi Arabia’s extensive humanitarian initiatives become even more prominent. Muslims around the world engage in acts of generosity, donating to causes such as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). However, beyond individual acts of kindness, the Saudi government has institutionalized its charitable efforts, making it a key player in international humanitarian aid.

Saudi Arabia has a long-standing history of foreign aid, having consistently ranked among the world’s largest humanitarian donors. Since the 1970s, the Kingdom has moved beyond merely providing financial assistance to actively shaping global humanitarian and development policies. In 1974, the Saudi government established the Saudi Fund for Development, which has since provided billions of dollars in soft loans and grants for infrastructure, health, and education projects across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Beyond its sovereign aid initiatives, Saudi Arabia has played a foundational role in the establishment of several multilateral development institutions, including the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the Islamic Development Bank, the OPEC Fund for International........

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