Saudi Arabia has provided over $177 million to support Rohingya refugees, says Al-Rabeeah

Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, participated yesterday in a high-level event on the Rohingya crisis, organized by the United States, United Kingdom, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Turkey, Gambia, and the European Union, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

He expressed Saudi Arabia's gratitude to the event organizers for their ongoing efforts to keep the humanitarian needs of the Rohingya at the forefront of global attention, noting that their situation remains extremely concerning. More than one million Rohingya refugees are currently residing in Bangladesh, many of whom are entirely dependent on humanitarian aid.

Al-Rabeeah stressed that humanitarian needs are rising while available funding remains limited. The 2026 Joint Response Plan indicates that over $710 million is required to support around 1.6 million Rohingya refugees and host community members. He called on the international community to unite in meeting these needs and to ensure respect for international humanitarian law to protect all civilians, especially women and children who continue to face serious risks from violations. He cited the latest United Nations human rights report, which described the situation as unbearable and called for an end to these grave abuses.

Al-Rabeeah stated: "Saudi Arabia is committed to continuing its support for Rohingya refugees and their host communities. Since 2017, the Kingdom has provided more than $177 million to help alleviate the impact of the Rohingya refugee crisis. These efforts continue today through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, which works closely with international and local partners to respond to urgent needs. This commitment is reflected in our partnership with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on two key projects in Bangladesh supporting food security and shelter."

He added that Saudi Arabia is also working to provide water and sanitation services for both Rohingya refugees and host communities.

Al-Rabeeah emphasized that humanitarian aid alone is not enough, and that conditions must be created in Myanmar to allow Rohingya refugees to return home safely, voluntarily, and sustainably.

He concluded: "Saudi Arabia will continue to work with all partners to address urgent humanitarian needs, support host communities, and help build a safe and sustainable future for Rohingya refugees."