Second batch of UAE Armed Forces assumes duty in Yemen

Abu Dhabi: Emiratis and residents in the capital hope that the UAE Armed Forces’ triumphs will instill a sense of national responsibility among youth and the future generations.

The second batch of Armed Forces’ soldiers have assumed duty in Yemen within the Arab coalition forces led by Saudi Arabia, it was announced on Thursday.

The General Command of the UAE’s Armed Forces has said that the process of replacing the forces has successfully been accomplished according to a systematic strategy and accurate military standards.

It explained that the first batch will arrive home over the next few days, where there will be an official reception for the brave soldiers who have stood with the Arab coalition forces and the Yemeni people.

The rotation comes following many victories, such as the historic liberation of Marib and retaking the Marib dam, which was rebuilt by late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Expressing her pride and honour to be part of a country that continues to raise generations of true symbols of patriotism, Reem Al Otaiba, 26-year-old crude oil marketer at a government company, told Gulf News: “We are all very proud of the UAE army and we pray for them all the time. Standing with our Yemeni brothers is a national responsibility. Every citizen should help them in one way or another, whether by being there or through generous donations.”

“I do hope that the army’s achievements will instill a sense of national commitment among the upcoming generations. I would also love to see these soldiers tour the schools and universities to offer students hands-on experience and encourage them to take this leap one day and fight against injustice.”

“Also, I am aware of how eager the families of the soldiers are to see their sons once again. In fact, two of my brothers are pilots who occasionally travel to Yemen as part of the Operation Restoring Hope, so I certainly know how it feels.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Fatima Al Zaabi, a 33-year-old engineer, said that the UAE’s army’s accomplishments have set the bar high when it comes to ‘Arab Unity’ and is hoping future generations will seek to build on the soldiers’ crowning achievements.

“I believe that every single person in this country wants to meet the soldiers and their families in their houses. They have made us exceptionally proud.”

“I want to tell them that we will stay with them every step of the way and will always pray for them. This is the least we can do for heroes who were willing to give up their own lives and families to stand in solidarity with their brothers in Yemen.”

Meanwhile, Helal Al Qubaisi, 43-year-old director at a government company, said that these heroes have helped the people of the UAE hold their heads high.

“I would like to seize this opportunity to offer my utmost appreciation to these brave soldiers and also to the martyrs who laid down their lives for a brighter tomorrow and for a prosperous and peaceful Yemen.”

“We also cannot forget the Emirates Red Crescent’s dedicated efforts and their sweeping gestures of financial kindness that continue to restore normality to Yemen.”

Also in harmony with Al Qubaisi, 21-year-old Afra Al Mutairi from Zayed University, said: “The UAE troops in Yemen are making this country and its people proud. Their names will go down in history as soldiers who took charge in not only keeping us safe, but our brothers and sisters in Yemen as well.”

“There are no words to express the level of gratitude for our leaders and soldiers who are using their power and standing hand in hand in order to restore peace to our brother country. This conflict is just a reminder that we are stronger in unity, which is something the late Shaikh Zayed believed in.”

However, it is not only the Emiratis who take pride in the army’s significant contributions. Expats who have lived in this country long enough to call it their home express the same sentiments.

Considering the UAE her first home, 28-year-old Yemeni Hailah Abdullah, who works as a teacher, said that the army’s selfless sacrifices did not come to her as a surprise as this country has always been synonymous with loyalty, benevolence and compassion.

“I grew up in this country and have always been treated like a citizen. This country offered me an array of opportunities that I would have not had anywhere else, which is why I call it my first home.”

“Words will never suffice to convey the amount of respect and appreciation I have for this country and its people. I only wish that it continues to flourish and grow from strength to strength and may God grant its people the serenity they deserve.”

Hana Abdel Latif, 35-year-old Jordanian and a mother of two, said that she has complete faith in the second batch of soldiers and offered them her heartfelt wishes.

“May God grant these soldiers the strength to make it through the country’s battering conditions and may they also return safely to us so we can offer them a hero’s welcome that they have certainly earned.”

— Maisoon Mubarak is a trainee at Gulf News.