Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), the leading national entity for development aid, and the Government of Pakistan, have enjoyed strong and long-standing ties dating back to 1981. The synergies between the two sides continue to drive sustainable socio-economic development across key sectors that benefit the citizens of Pakistan.

To date, the Fund has supported Pakistan with grants and concessionary loans on behalf of the Abu Dhabi government, valued at AED1.5 billion across nine sustainable development projects. The projects spanned diverse sectors, most notably transport, water and agriculture, healthcare, and education.

ADFD’s country report issued to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day on 14 August, highlighted that the nine development projects have significantly contributed to improving socio-economic conditions in the country.

On the milestone occasion of the 70th anniversary of its independence, His Excellency Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, extended his sincerest congratulations to the Pakistani government and people, and wished them continued prosperity.

His Excellency Al Suwaidi said: “ADFD’s role in financing these sustainable development projects across Pakistan underscores the fraternal relations and strong bilateral ties that the UAE and Pakistan share.”

Stressing the importance the UAE places on supporting developing countries, His Excellency Al Suwaidi added: “The comprehensive and wide spanning portfolio of development projects supported by ADFD in Pakistan can certainly be attributed to the strong relations between our countries as well as the wise directives, guidance and support of the Abu Dhabi government.

“At ADFD, we believe in assisting beneficiary governments in achieving their economic, sustainable and development schemes and goals. We are pleased that our support to the Pakistani government has elevated living standards and boosted strategic growth in that country.”

The following is a brief overview of strategic sectors and notable projects funded by ADFD in Pakistan:

Transport Sector

In line with ADFD’s strategy to focus on infrastructure projects that yield socio-economic growth, the Fund has injected considerable capital into supporting projects in Pakistan’s transport sector. Notable among these is the AED227 million 2013 Abu Dhabi government grant ADFD managed for the construction of the UAE-Pakistani Friendship Road. By linking the southern and northern areas of the Waziristan region, this 72-km road serves three major cities and 20 villages and facilitates the movement of people and goods.

Healthcare Sector

To elevate everyday living standards, ADFD administered an estimated AED107 million Abu Dhabi government grant to develop two healthcare projects in Pakistan. In 2013, ADFD provided AED94 million to construct the Emirates Hospital – an integrated specialty medical centre equipped with 1,000 beds. Capable of receiving 6,000 patients daily – from Pakistani military personnel and their families, as well as the general population and individuals inflicted with critical conditions – the hospital is also equipped with administrative and service departments, emergency care units, outpatient clinics, laboratories and lecture halls to academically prepare and license military personnel and civilians to perform medical duties.

Furthermore, in 2006, ADFD allocated AED13 million to fit out the Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Lahore with modern and internationally standardised equipment.

Education Sector

In line with the Pakistani government’s development goals, ADFD has played a crucial and supportive role in improving and advancing the country’s education sector. In this regard, in 2013, ADFD managed an AED46 million grant earmarked for training colleges. This project led to the construction of three training colleges for individuals living in remote areas. These include Warsak College in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, and Wana College and Spinkai Cadet College - both located in South Waziristan.

in addition, in 2009, ADFD allocated AED7 million to fund expansion works at the Sheikh Zayed International Academy (SZIA).

Electricity Sector

In order to ensure an adequate and reliable power supply, in 1981, ADFD provided an AED66 million loan to rehabilitate the Tarbela Dam.

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