The UAE’s leadership paid tribute to the armed forces on Saturday, recognising the dedication and sacrifice made by members of the military who have served in Yemen.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, described the military as the “protectors of the union”.
The remaining members of the armed forces stationed in Yemen are expected to return soon.
Tomorrow is an exceptionally proud day for the UAE as we celebrate & honor our heroes for their participation in the Arab coalition in Yemen. On behalf of the whole nation we are grateful for your service & your sacrifice. You truly are the embodiment of the spirit of the UAE.
— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) February 8, 2020
“Greetings to the people of the homeland returning from the land of Yemen. They participated in a mission, to restore hope and establish security in the region, with their brothers in the coalition forces,” he wrote on Twitter.
“They contributed to humanitarian work in 22 governorates that have benefited millions of families. And they contributed to building and developing huge development projects in the governorates of Yemen.”
Commenting on Twitter, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, said: “Tomorrow is an exceptionally proud day for the UAE as we celebrate and honour our heroes for their participation in the Arab coalition in Yemen.
“On behalf of the whole nation, we are grateful for your service and your sacrifice. You truly are the embodiment of the spirit of the UAE.”
Their imminent return follows a long-term redeployment, announced in July, as part of the country’s move to focus on the peace process.
The UAE has been part of coalition forces, seeking to restore the legitimate government to Yemen, for five years.
Coupled with its military presence, the UAE provided $5.59 billion (Dh20.53bn) in aid to Yemen between April 2015 and June 2019, assisting 17.2 million Yemenis in every governorate of the country, including Houthi heartlands such as Saada.
More than $550 million had been spent on aid operations in Hodeidah governorate, with most going to emergency food assistance.
UAE Armed Forces have worked with development and aid agencies to help support their mission.
