The United Arab Emirates has once again proven its excellence in disaster response and emergency preparedness. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his congratulations to the UAE Urban Search and Rescue team for maintaining the esteemed “heavy” classification from the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), which is affiliated with the United Nations. This prestigious recognition underscores the team’s elite status, marking the third occasion the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has achieved this highest international rating.
Sheikh Mohamed emphasized the team’s high level of professionalism and unwavering dedication, attributes that have solidified their operational readiness to tackle both domestic and international crises. He noted that the group’s swift response capabilities to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies highlight the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian principles and bolster its reputation on the global stage in disaster management.
The commendation of the UAE Urban Search and Rescue team took place during a ceremony at Qasr Al Bahr Palace, a fitting venue for such a distinguished acknowledgment. The event was graced by the presence of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, as well as several senior officials and distinguished guests, all of whom acknowledged the team’s significant achievement.
This milestone not only strengthens the UAE’s position as a leader in emergency response but also reflects the country’s broader dedication to humanitarian efforts. By retaining the “heavy” classification, the UAE demonstrates its ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards in rescue operations, a crucial factor in its growing influence in international disaster management circles. The achievement serves as a testament to the UAE’s strategic investments in enhancing its emergency response capabilities.