The Middle East
More than 10,000 shoebox gifts packed in the UK in 2025 are now bringing joy to children in the Middle East! This marks the first time in over 20 years that Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes have reached the region. In places where sharing the Gospel is restricted, the shoeboxes you packed online have enabled special access—opening doors for the love of Jesus to be shared through local partners.
To the thousands who receive them, these gift-filled boxes are a powerful symbol of hope and love.
Due to ongoing political and religious sensitivities in some parts of the Middle East, it’s important we prioritise the safety of our partners operating in restricted areas. Therefore, we are unfortunately unable to disclose details about the specific country your shoebox was sent to. Wherever it’s landed, please know that the precious child who receives your gift will be truly blessed.
Below, we’ve shared some of our favourite videos, photos, and stories from the wider region. We pray it encourages your heart to see the difference that shoeboxes just like yours make.
The moment of anticipation before these girls opened their shoebox gifts.
Many children who receive shoebox gifts have never received a present before.
Each gift reminds a child they are loved and cared for.
This sweet girl couldn’t contain her smile as she discovered a doll in her shoebox.
Parents are thrilled to see their children’s joy when they receive their shoebox.
A Gift That Restored Hope
When she was just 8 years old, Cicia was seriously injured in a bus crash and lost both of her legs. While recovering in hospital, she refused to see visitors and felt deeply discouraged. A local church member felt led to visit her with an Operation Christmas Child shoebox gift. There and then a friendship began, and years later Cicia shared that the shoebox was the most precious gift she had ever received. Through it, her faith and hope in God were restored.
“These gift boxes definitely will bring joy and hope into the little children’s hearts.”
—Local Partner in the Middle East
God’s Love in Action
Seven-year-old *Ali suffers from a serious condition affecting both of his legs and needed medical treatment his family could not afford. As funds were raised to help Ali access the care he needed, a local church member also brought him an Operation Christmas Child shoebox gift.
“When we told the family about the shoeboxes and conveyed the Gospel message, Ali’s father started crying,” shared the partner. “He was deeply touched. He told us that people came who wanted to help in some way but no one brought them anything so valuable.”
That simple gift opened the door to friendship, ongoing support, and continued care for Ali—powerfully demonstrating the love of Christ to his family.
*Name changed for security purposes
What Happens After the Shoebox?
After receiving their shoebox gift, children can enrol in The Greatest Journey—12 fun and interactive Bible lessons—where they have the opportunity to discover who Jesus is, begin their journey of faith, and receive a New Testament in their own language. Watch the video below to see how The Greatest Journey is transforming lives around the world.
Note: The Greatest Journey is offered free of charge, without obligation, and with the consent of the child’s parent or guardian.
Learn More About The Greatest Journey
