Qatar Charity (QC) and Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) signed a strategic three-year partnership agreement, valued at US$15 million, aimed at strengthening cooperation in humanitarian work and sustainable development.

The agreement, which will be equally funded by both organizations, is designed to support humanitarian response initiatives, joint development programming, localization efforts, and collaborative research.

The agreement was signed in London by Mr. Yousuf bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Charity, and Mr. Waseem Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of Islamic Relief Worldwide.

The partnership will center around four strategic areas of collaboration. First, Joint Development Programming will support long-term solutions to transform people’s lives, particularly through projects that tackle climate change, provide Islamic microfinance, and use the ‘graduation model’ of programming that helps people lift themselves out of poverty.  Second, Humanitarian Response will provide timely, life-saving assistance during emergencies around the world. Third, Localization will strengthen the capacity of local and national actors to lead humanitarian and development work, with particular focus across Africa. Finally, Joint Research will generate knowledge and evidence to improve impact, inform policy, and share best practices.  

The memorandum outlines the establishment of an institutional framework for cooperation in designing and implementing programs, setting performance indicators, exchanging technical experience and knowledge, organizing joint workshops, and facilitating staff exchanges — all aimed at building capacity and enhancing institutional efficiency for both parties.

Mr. Yousuf bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Charity, said: “This agreement marks a significant milestone in our journey of international cooperation. We are proud of this partnership with Islamic Relief Worldwide, with whom we share a common vision for professional and transparent humanitarian action. It reflects our commitment to expanding the impact of our humanitarian and development efforts, strengthening global partnerships, and developing innovative intervention models that respond to contemporary challenges and ensure aid reaches those most in need efficiently and effectively.”

Al Kuwari added: “We firmly believe that joint action is the most effective path to achieving sustainable results. Together with Islamic Relief Worldwide, we will work to advance our humanitarian and development goals and strengthen global solidarity.”

Mr. Waseem Ahmad, Chief Executive of Islamic Relief Worldwide, said: “This partnership reflects our commitment to going beyond providing lifesaving aid and to truly transforming people’s lives and futures. Impoverished families know how best to lift themselves out of poverty, they just need support and a fair opportunity to do so. Together with Qatar Charity we aim to address the root causes of poverty and conflict and deliver innovative solutions that help communities live in dignity, move from crisis to stability, and strengthen the foundations of lasting peace.”  

The agreement expands the long-standing collaboration between Qatar Charity and Islamic Relief, such as supporting communities to recover from the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan. It strongly aligns with the international development priorities of both the United Kingdom and the State of Qatar – supporting the UK’s commitment to humanitarian diplomacy, effective aid delivery and locally led development, while advancing Qatar’s global vision for solidarity, innovation and sustainable humanitarian impact.  

The collaboration is designed to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).