The UAE is poised to play a pivotal role in the reconstruction and recovery of Gaza, offering both financial and infrastructure expertise, according to local experts.
From providing humanitarian aid to facilitating peacekeeping efforts, the country’s potential contribution could significantly shape Gaza’s future following the ongoing conflict.
Najla Al Midfa, a researcher at Trends Research and Advisory, emphasized the UAE’s capacity to support reconstruction efforts, particularly in rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure.
“I believe that the UAE is likely to play fundamental roles in reconstruction and security, particularly as mediators and facilitators,” she said. “The rebuilding will need a lot of effort, with a focus on immediate needs like humanitarian aid and infrastructure repair.”
The comments come amid ongoing ceasefire negotiations, which faced challenges last week after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of backtracking on certain aspects of the agreement.
While Hamas maintains that it remains committed to the truce, the situation remains precarious, with much uncertainty surrounding the terms of the deal.
Dr. John E. Katsos, a professor at the American University of Sharjah and a Nobel Peace Prize nominee, highlighted the critical role of businesses in the reconstruction phase.
According to his research, the influx of international aid organizations will be essential during the first five years following the conflict, but businesses will need to take the lead beyond that period. “Businesses will help with distribution and planning of this.
But humanitarian and reconstruction aid tends to drop off after about year five,” he explained. “From years six through ten, businesses will have to ramp up, rebuilding infrastructure to develop the community.”
However, experts like Abdulla Alkhaja, a research assistant at Trends Research and Advisory, caution that the situation remains unpredictable.
“Hamas is likely to abide by this agreement, as Palestinians have everything to lose if fighting resumes,” said Alkhaja. “However, underlying issues remain unresolved, and without addressing them, conflict may resurface.”
The initial focus for aid organizations will be to ensure that supplies, such as food and fuel, reach Gaza, particularly in the northern regions.
Reports suggest that up to 608 trucks could enter Gaza daily once the ceasefire takes effect, but long-term recovery will require more than just humanitarian assistance.
Alkhaja warned that Gaza’s rebuilding would require massive investments, coordination, and a political solution to address the enclave’s governance challenges.
Dr. Katsos also predicted that the conflict could foster a strong entrepreneurial spirit among survivors. “Research shows that conflict often breeds entrepreneurship,” he noted, adding that small businesses would likely emerge quickly.
Construction and security companies, in particular, are expected to be among the first to return to Gaza as the region begins its recovery process.
Nevertheless, Dr. Katsos cautioned that businesses must be mindful of the risks of exacerbating local dynamics. “It’s easy for companies to think they’re doing good in a post-conflict setting, but they can unintentionally make things worse,” he said.
“International companies must be guided by humanitarian organizations and the Palestinian people to ensure that their involvement truly benefits the community.”
As Gaza faces the complex task of rebuilding, experts agree that international support, particularly from the UAE, will be essential in ensuring a sustainable and peaceful recovery.