In 2025, the Special Voluntary Fund (SVF) opened new doors for volunteer engagement across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Six national UN Volunteers stepped forward to represent countries that have traditionally been less visible within the UN system, bringing local voices and expertise to the heart of global development efforts. Three volunteers came from Kuwait, two from Qatar, and one from the United Arab Emirates. Each worked alongside UN agencies and contributed to areas ranging from migration and development to education, counter-terrorism, food security, and health.
This initiative wasn’t just about rolling out a system—it showed what’s possible when drawing on local expertise.
Jamal Alhaj is based in Dubai as a UN Volunteer Partnerships Associate with the World Food Programme (WFP) and supports the UN system's collaboration with Gulf governments and private partners. “My role focuses on strengthening WFP’s engagement with Gulf countries and fostering meaningful cooperation across the region,” he shares. As an Emirati, Jamal brings important knowledge of local traditions and how things work in the region.
“Coming from a nationality that is underrepresented in the UN system, I see my role as helping bridge global and local perspectives,” says Jamal.
Thanks to funding from the Special Voluntary Fund, individuals from underrepresented nationalities have the chance to actively contribute to the United Nations. This strengthens the UN by bringing in diverse voices and perspectives, making its mission more inclusive and global.
Jamal’s contribution exemplifies the value of engaging local talent in global efforts. Volunteers like Jamal show how homegrown expertise can bridge global priorities with local realities, creating meaningful impact.” Natalie Teperdjian, Partnerships Officer, WFP GCC Global Office.
Bandar Alsharhan is a UN Volunteer Youth Programme Officer with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kuwait. He promotes the inclusion of young people in development as part of Kuwait’s Vision 2035.
Bandar collaborates closely with government ministries, civil society organizations, and private partners to design and implement initiatives that empower young people to be more involved in national priorities. Each day brings a new opportunity for Bandar who makes sure youth voices are heard and reflected in the country’s development agenda.
One of his proudest achievements—the Knowledge Journey, a partnership between UNDP and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation. Through this initiative, 60 young Kuwaitis gained practical skills in areas like leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration. It included hands-on workshops and group projects designed to build teamwork and critical thinking.
“Being a UN Volunteer means serving not only an organization but also your country and community. This experience has strengthened my project management, communication, and policy analysis skills and shown me the value of inclusive, youth-led change,” shared Bandar.
Bandar has been a true asset to our team—proactive, supportive, and always bringing positive energy. His work and spirit have made a real difference.” Sherif El Tokali, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Kuwait.
UNV created six volunteer assignments in 2025 for professionals from the Gulf region to work with IOM, UNDP, UNESCO, UNOCT, WFP, and WHO. For more information on the Special Voluntary Fund, please click here.