UAE firefighting team joins efforts to battle wildfires in Albania

TIRANA- A specialised firefighting team from the United Arab Emirates has begun operations in Albania to help battle ongoing wildfires, following directives from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The move comes as part of the UAE’s continued commitment to providing humanitarian and emergency support to nations facing natural disasters. The Emirati team arrived in Albania on Sunday, equipped with qualified personnel, helicopters, advanced firefighting equipment, and materials. Helicopters from the UAE team conducted multiple sorties over wildfire-hit areas, including Petrela, Gramsh, and other affected regions. The teams on the ground, backed by modern equipment and aerial support, engaged directly in the fire suppression efforts—despite challenging terrain and weather conditions.

The rapid deployment and professional coordination of the Emirati team drew praise from several Albanian officials involved in the firefighting efforts. They commended the UAE’s swift response and described it as a reflection of the strong bilateral relations between the two countries.

This mission underscores the UAE’s growing role as a reliable international partner in emergency response and disaster relief. Over recent years, the UAE has consistently mobilised aid teams for crises across the globe, including humanitarian, medical, and environmental disasters.

The UAE’s intervention in Albania highlights the importance of international cooperation in responding to climate-related challenges, including the increasing frequency of wildfires worldwide.