The United Arab Emirates has once again demonstrated its prowess in emergency preparedness and disaster response as its Urban Search and Rescue team retained the esteemed “heavy” classification. This top-tier international rating is awarded by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), which is affiliated with the United Nations. This achievement marks the third time the team from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has earned this elite status, further solidifying the UAE’s reputation for excellence in this field.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his congratulations to the team, commending their professionalism, dedication, and operational readiness. He emphasized the team’s capacity to swiftly respond to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies, both domestically and abroad. This accomplishment, according to Sheikh Mohamed, reflects the UAE’s steadfast commitment to humanitarian values and enhances its global standing in disaster management.
The recognition ceremony took place at the Qasr Al Bahr Palace, where Sheikh Mohamed expressed his pride in the team’s achievements. Highlighting the UAE’s ongoing commitment to excellence, he noted that the team’s ability to maintain such high standards is a testament to the country’s dedication to humanitarian efforts and global cooperation.
In attendance at the ceremony was Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, along with senior officials and distinguished guests. The event celebrated not only the team’s technical skills and readiness but also the strategic vision of the UAE in contributing to global rescue operations and emergency response capabilities.
This recognition by INSARAG underscores the UAE’s proactive approach to disaster management and its role as a leader in providing rapid and effective assistance in times of crisis. The continued success of the UAE Urban Search and Rescue team exemplifies the strength of the nation’s emergency response frameworks, and its impact is felt both within the UAE and in international humanitarian missions.