In a powerful demonstration of global humanitarian collaboration, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has joined forces with Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA) to enhance support for refugees worldwide through the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR). Acting as the fund’s trustee, IsDB signed a Donor Contribution Agreement (DCA) with IRUSA, marking a significant milestone in the mission to provide long-term aid and empowerment for displaced populations.
The agreement was formalized at the IsDB Group Annual Meetings held in Algeria. The signing ceremony featured H.E. Mr. Adil Alsharif, Acting Director-General of the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), and Mr. Ahmed Shehata, CEO of IRUSA. The event was witnessed by H.E. Dr. Rami Ahmad, Vice President for Operations at IsDB.
With this partnership, IRUSA joins a growing list of global supporters of the GIFR. The fund has already garnered commitments totaling $110 million, including $50 million each from ISFD and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and $10 million from Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief).
IRUSA’s latest contribution, amounting to $10 million, signifies its entry into the GIFR’s steering committee—a key governance entity responsible for allocating funding to projects aiding displaced people and host communities across IsDB member countries.
“IRUSA’s participation strengthens the fund’s ability to drive impactful solutions for forcibly displaced populations. It reflects our shared commitment to sustainable, faith-driven humanitarian initiatives,” said Mr. Shehata and Mr. Alsharif in a joint statement.
The Global Islamic Fund for Refugees is a pioneering, Shariah-compliant initiative dedicated to supporting refugees and displaced persons, particularly in Muslim-majority nations. Its first major project, the Regional Emergency Response Initiative for Sudanese Refugees, exemplifies its goal of targeted, sustainable intervention.
Mr. Alsharif emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership:
“Islamic Relief USA’s commitment sends a strong message of unity in tackling one of today’s most urgent humanitarian issues. GIFR’s innovative financial model ensures that aid is both consistent and compliant with Islamic principles, making a lasting difference.”
Dr. Khaled Khalifa, UNHCR’s Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner and Representative to the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries, also praised the collaboration:
“This generous contribution from IRUSA underscores the power of Islamic philanthropy in transforming lives. GIFR stands as a beacon of sustainable humanitarian funding, and we encourage others to join this essential cause.”
Mr. Shehata reiterated the importance of innovative solutions in addressing the refugee crisis:
“As global displacement reaches alarming levels, traditional approaches must evolve. The GIFR represents a groundbreaking model of sustainable, Shariah-compliant support. We are proud to be a part of this noble effort to uplift millions of displaced individuals.”
Established in 2022 by IsDB, ISFD, and UNHCR, the GIFR is the first global Shariah-compliant financing mechanism of its kind. It operates through both Waqf and non-Waqf modalities, enabling contributions from diverse donors while ensuring adherence to Islamic finance principles.
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All contributions to GIFR are ethically invested, with proceeds dedicated to essential humanitarian services such as education, clean water, sanitation, housing, and economic empowerment for displaced populations.
About the Partners
UNHCR
The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) leads global efforts to protect and support refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless individuals. Its mission is to safeguard rights, provide critical aid, and promote long-term solutions for people forced to flee due to conflict or persecution.
Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA)
Headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, IRUSA is a prominent nonprofit humanitarian organization committed to providing development and relief aid in over 40 countries, including the United States. The organization serves vulnerable populations regardless of race, religion, or gender, championing dignity, empowerment, and justice.