The Sri Lankan diaspora in the United Arab Emirates has mobilized an extensive humanitarian response following Cyclone Ditwah’s catastrophic impact on their homeland. Multiple professional associations, alumni networks, and the Sri Lankan Welfare Association (SLWA) have united to coordinate relief efforts for victims of the devastating storm that claimed 618 lives and caused an estimated $7 billion in reconstruction costs.
Central to these efforts is the ‘Tears to Smiles’ initiative launched December 1st, which aims to provide essential clothing packages to affected communities across Sri Lanka’s hardest-hit districts. The campaign has already demonstrated significant progress, with 530 gift packs valued at Dh42,000 distributed to flood victims in Badulla, Matale, and Anuradhapura regions—representing 53% of their initial 1,000-pack target.
The Sri Lankan Bankers Association (SLBA)-UAE is collaborating with diplomatic missions to establish transparent, coordinated support channels ensuring direct assistance reaches those most affected. Association President M. Isthiaq Raziq emphasized the importance of systematic coordination with authorities in Sri Lanka to maximize the effectiveness of their relief operations.
Community leaders expressed profound gratitude toward UAE leadership for their substantial support while highlighting the collective determination of expatriates to aid recovery efforts. Sanjaya R. Jirasinha of SLWA-Sahana noted the campaign demonstrates that affected compatriots ‘are not alone,’ while representatives from banking, management, and travel sectors reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing support through coordinated action with Sri Lankan diplomatic posts in the UAE.