Latest news with #UAEArmedForces
Arab Times
5 days ago
- Arab Times
Emirati Veteran's Life Cut Short in Tragic Collision in Oman
DUBAI, Aug 3: A tragic car accident in Oman has claimed the life of a respected 70-year-old Emirati man, Mohammad Faraj, while on a family road trip to Salalah. The fatal crash occurred on Saturday, August 2, along Haima Road — a popular route among UAE residents traveling to Oman during the summer holidays. Faraj, a retired UAE Armed Forces soldier, was driving with his wife, Fathima Al Hashmi (69), and daughter Samiha (42) when their black SUV collided head-on with another vehicle at high speed. The devastating impact, captured in a widely circulated video, shows the black and white vehicles smashing into each other on the narrow two-lane highway. Confirming the tragedy, Sabri Al Tamimi, one of Faraj's six children, said he received a call from authorities around 4 pm. 'My father passed away at approximately 2 pm. We are still in shock. He was a great man.' An Omani citizen in the other car also died at the scene. His body was airlifted from Sultan Qaboos Hospital in Salalah to Liwa, North Batinah, by police helicopter. Faraj succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His wife remains in critical condition but is showing signs of improvement, while his daughter Samiha emerged from the crash unharmed. Following in a separate vehicle were Faraj's other daughter, Alia, her husband Abdullah, and their two-year-old son Said — all of whom witnessed the horrific accident unfold just ahead of them. The family had been on a six-day trip to Salalah, planning to return the following week. They are now preparing to repatriate the father's body to Dubai, where he will be buried, likely on Sunday evening or Monday. Mohammad Faraj was not only a decorated veteran who served 27 years in the UAE military, but also a two-time cancer survivor. First diagnosed in 1989, he overcame the disease once, though it returned in recent years. His wife is also a breast cancer survivor who battled the illness for five years. In 2012, while both were undergoing cancer treatment, the devoted couple handcrafted a 25-metre UAE flag to mark the 41st National Day and their 41st wedding anniversary. The flag was proudly displayed on their villa in Mirdif as a tribute to the UAE leadership and their unwavering support.
Al Etihad
31-07-2025
- General
- Al Etihad
Inside Museum 1185: Keepsakes from a life of honour and service to UAE
1 Aug 2025 00:07 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)What began as a simple effort to gather keepsakes from a distinguished career in public service — medals, certificates, gifts, and souvenirs — soon evolved into something greater. As he retraced his journey, Dr. Obaid Al Ketbi realised it was no longer just his story, but part of the nation's. All the mementos from Dr. Al Ketbi's 43-year career - spanning the UAE Armed Forces, the Abu Dhabi Police, and diplomatic posts - are now preserved in Museum 1185, situated right within his home in the UAE capital. 'The idea of establishing Museum 1185 stemmed from my conviction that every human experience has value and deserves to be preserved and narrated,' Dr. Al Ketbi told Aletihad . The museum's name itself holds deep emotional significance for Dr. Al Ketbi. 'The number 1185 has been my travelling companion from the very start. It has been my military ID number since 1977, and it has lived with me and in me as a number of belonging,' he said. 'After a very long process, I find that naming the museum by this number is the least we can offer in gratitude and in loyalty for a journey that started on support of the state and concluded also with a message of love and gratitude.' Inside, more than 15,000 items are on display. These include a Guinness-verified world record medal; more than 150 official awards and medals, such as the Stevie Awards from the US, the General Secretariat of the GCC, and the Golden Lion Award from Italy; and memorabilia from more than 160 countries. The museum features rare and meaningful artefacts - from military documents and communication tools to medals, photos, and official gifts. 'It also features communication tools, documents, and images that chronicle pivotal moments in the UAE's history and the journey of its leaders,' he 1185 is a reflection of Dr. Al Ketbi's illustrious career. Dr. Al Ketbi's journey began in 1977 when he graduated from Zayed II Military College and started a journey of public service spanning 43 years. He climbed the ranks of the UAE Armed Forces to attain the rank of Major General, occupied key positions as Chief of Logistics Staff, and commanded humanitarian operations in Iraq, Kosovo, and Lebanon. His leadership role was also reflected in the police hierarchy as Deputy Chief of Police Officer at Abu Dhabi Police and member of the Executive Council, and later in the diplomatic spectrum as UAE Ambassador to Australia as well as non-resident Ambassador to a number of Pacific states. In 2019, he was named an Assistant Minister for Military and Security Affairs. A Certificate From Sheikh Zayed Among the many meaningful artefacts on display, one holds the most profound emotional value: a princely certificate presented by the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. 'It is not only a document of honour; it is a symbol of a profound personal and spiritual relationship with the Founding Father of the nation and my spiritual father, who instilled in us the values of loyalty, belonging, and sacrifice.' In order to involve the community, especially the youth, in the museum's activities, it holds workshops, field trips, and events. It works with schools and universities, including NYU Abu Dhabi, and collaborates with the National Library and Archives. 'We place great importance on effective community engagement, particularly with the youth, believing that museums not only serve a documentary role but also play an educational and developmental role,' he said. An Open Invitation to All For Dr. Al Ketbi, the mission of the museum is greater than mere preservation. It is an open door for citizens and visitors from around the world to seek inspiration in the nation and in a man's sense of duty. 'From this point of view, I always try to share this experience with museum visitors ... to let them know that standing on the top only comes from painstaking efforts, toil and loyalty to one's country,' he said. 'The museum is more than a repository of memory; it is an open invitation to all who believe that the experience of one can become a resource for the many,' he added. As one of the few personal and private museums in the UAE, 1185 has a distinctive place in telling the story of the UAE. 'Private museums such as the Museum 1185 help play an important complementary role, a role that tells the story of the nation, the country, and the personal, human side of individuals, supplying a more comprehensive view of national history,' Dr. Al Ketbi said. 'Visitors can experience history through captivating personal stories that are linked to the spirit of the nation.' He noted that the museum is a cultural oasis that seeks to advance national pride and national values. 'Museum 1185 equally embodies a living testament to cultural diplomacy, showcasing to its cross-visiting audiences from all over the world the fundamental legacy upon which the UAE was established: Tolerance, giving and cultural openness towards the rest of the world,' Dr. Al Ketbi said. Going Smart, Going Global Dr. Al Ketbi hopes to increase the accessibility and dynamism of the museum with the use of technology. Plans include a dedicated mobile app, holographic displays, 360° virtual tours, as well as a mobile exhibition that will bring the museum's message to schools and international cultural events. 'We believe in the importance of integrating modern technology into the museum experience,' he said. 'We are also working on launching an app that will allow visitors to learn about the story of each piece using their personal mobile phones. We also have plans for a mobile exhibition that will carry the museum's message to schools and communities across the UAE, and even abroad.' Building Great History Dr. Al Ketbi aspires for Museum 1185 to become a leading cultural centre for telling human and national stories, and a platform for intergenerational dialogue.'I want it to inspire young Emiratis to carry their passion and identity confidently into the future,' he said. 'The legacy I hope the museum will leave behind is to stand as a testament that serving one's country is not a job, but an honour and a responsibility. And that every sincere effort, no matter how small, contributes to building a great history. I want every young Emirati who visits the museum to feel they have a role and a place in this ongoing narrative,' he said.
Sharjah 24
31-07-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Khaled bin Mohamed attends 22nd National Service Cohort Demo.
Opening ceremony and tactical displays The event began with the UAE National Anthem, followed by a series of tactical and combat drills. The recruits demonstrated advanced military skills, showcasing their operational readiness, discipline, and professionalism in executing simulated missions. Commendation for recruits Sheikh Khaled praised the high level of skill and strong sense of duty displayed by the recruits, affirming their essential role in protecting the nation's security and accomplishments. He congratulated the cohort on their field readiness and military proficiency. National Service Programme's enduring impact Sheikh Khaled highlighted the significance of the National and Reserve Service Programme in fostering loyalty, unity, and national pride among Emirati youth. Over the past 11 years, the initiative has played a key role in safeguarding the UAE's stability and progress. Comprehensive military training The recruits underwent intensive basic and specialised training, encompassing theoretical and practical military sciences, physical fitness, combat techniques, and discipline—equipping them with high-level preparedness for future service. Remarks by the training centre commander The Commander of Sweihan Training Centre delivered a speech emphasising the recruits' discipline and readiness, stating that the demonstrations reflected their ability to undertake military tasks with resilience and high morale. He also stressed the importance of national service in supporting the operational strength of the UAE Armed Forces. Distinguished attendees The event was attended by Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan; Lt. Gen. Eng. Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei; Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili; Maj. Gen. Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoon Al Muhairi; Saif Saeed Ghobash; senior Ministry of Defence officers; and the recruits' families.
Al Etihad
31-07-2025
- General
- Al Etihad
Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed attends specialised demonstrations by 22nd cohort of UAE National Service Programme at Sweihan Training Centre
31 July 2025 21:54 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has attended specialised demonstrations presented by the 22nd cohort of the UAE National Service Programme for the 2024–2025 training year, held at Sweihan Training Centre in Abu ceremonial event commenced with the UAE National Anthem, followed by a field drill featuring a series of tactical and combat demonstrations. The recruits showcased advanced operational skills acquired during their national service training, reflecting a high level of readiness, discipline and professionalism in executing military Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his pride in the high level of skills and outstanding discipline demonstrated by the recruits, commending their strong sense of commitment and patriotism. His Highness affirmed that the young recruits represent a key pillar in safeguarding the nation's security and protecting its Highness congratulated the graduates on their advanced field readiness and extensive military knowledge, wishing them continued success in fulfilling their national duty with dedication and Highness underscored the pivotal role of the National and Reserve Service Programme, which has been instrumental, over the past 11 years, in fostering loyalty and a sense of belonging among Emirati youth. His Highness emphasised its vital contribution to safeguarding the nation's achievements and advancing the UAE's enduring progress under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed the programme, recruits received both basic and specialised training covering theoretical and practical military sciences, in addition to physical fitness, combat skills, and military discipline. The comprehensive National Service training equipped the recruits with the highest levels of preparedness and operational the beginning of the event, the Commander of Sweihan Training Centre delivered a speech emphasising that the military demonstrations reflected the highest levels of readiness and discipline, demonstrating the Emirati youth's ability to execute military tasks with unwavering determination and high Commander further underscored the vital role of national service in strengthening the operational readiness of the UAE Armed Forces and equipping young Emiratis with essential skills, while fostering a future-ready generation empowered by knowledge and resilience to uphold the nation's development and achievements. The event was attended by His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court; His Excellency Lieutenant General Engineer Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces; His Excellency Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development; His Excellency Major General Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoon Al Muhairi, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police; His Excellency Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Office of the Crown Prince; and senior officers of the Ministry of Defence, as well as the recruits' families.
Time of India
29-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Dubai crown prince Sheikh Hamdan promoted to Lieutenant General: A look at his defence journey
TL;DR Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has been promoted to Lieutenant General in the UAE Armed Forces . . He took charge as Defence Minister in July 2024, replacing his father after decades of service. His first year in office focused on modernisation, partnerships, and strategic military reforms. In a formal decree issued by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has been promoted to Lieutenant General in the UAE Armed Forces. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The decision comes a year after Sheikh Hamdan stepped into the role of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, succeeding his father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, who had held the position since the country's founding. This move signals more than a military rank. It reflects a larger generational transition in the UAE's leadership, one that blends deep tradition with new thinking. Sheikh Hamdan's military education, global exposure, and hands-on experience in governance make him a prominent figure in this evolving phase of UAE defence policy. A Military Background with Global Exposure Born in 1982, Sheikh Hamdan graduated from Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 2001 and later studied at the London School of Economics. He served as Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council and became Crown Prince in 2008, helping develop Dubai's tourism and business sectors. On July 14, 2024, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced Sheikh Hamdan would succeed him as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, a role his father held since the UAE's founding. Sheikh Hamdan took the defence minister oath on July 18, marking a clear generational shift in UAE defence leadership. He recently completed one year in this role, focusing on modernising the armed forces. One Year in Office: Key Initiatives Since becoming Defence Minister in July 2024, Sheikh Hamdan has led a period of focused change within the UAE Armed Forces. Here's what's shaped his first year: He has pushed for integrating new technologies, including advanced surveillance systems and digital warfare capabilities. One of the highlights under his leadership: the launch of the Al Emarat P111 corvette warship, equipped with cutting-edge naval defence systems. warship, equipped with cutting-edge naval defence systems. In April 2025, Sheikh Hamdan visited India, meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The two agreed to collaborate on military training, coast guard coordination, and joint defence production. Beyond India, Sheikh Hamdan has participated in regional outreach alongside President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, including strategic visits to South Korea and other allied nations. These visits have helped build long-term partnerships in defence manufacturing, logistics, and security planning. In his first formal address to UAE Armed Forces personnel, Sheikh Hamdan spoke of building a military that stands as a 'global model of organisation and excellence.' This message has resonated as the armed forces shift toward a more tech-savvy, future-focused force. A Role Rooted in Legacy Sheikh Hamdan's promotion also holds symbolic weight. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The UAE Armed Forces were unified nearly five decades ago, a move that cemented national identity and shared strength. His recent appearance at a ceremony marking 49 years of military unification highlights his commitment to honouring this legacy while shaping its next phase. His father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, offered public praise on the one-year anniversary of Sheikh Hamdan's defence appointment, sharing a personal poem celebrating his son's leadership. It wasn't just a family gesture. It was a moment that tied together legacy, leadership, and national pride. Why It Matters for the UAE The promotion of Sheikh Hamdan to Lieutenant General is more than a rank change. It's a sign of continuity in the UAE's leadership, with a focus on adaptation. Sheikh Hamdan brings global experience, deep national roots, and a clear sense of direction. He's also stepping into a role that affects not just national security, but regional stability, defence innovation, and international diplomacy. His leadership will likely influence how the UAE prepares for future challenges, both at home and beyond its borders.
