'Found my calling after father's martyrdom': UAE's female soldiers share national service stories
UAE recruit Maryam Abdulla Saleh Albadri, 18, had never seriously considered joining the national service. 'Honestly, I never thought about it,' the Abu Dhabi-based Emirati told Khaleej Times.
However, everything changed after her beloved father, who served in the UAE Armed Forces, was tragically martyred in 2022. 'After my father passed away, I felt my true place was in the army, where he served with honour and gave his life for our country.'
Maryam is among hundreds of Emirati women who serve in the armed forces. The UAE national service, which is mandatory for all medically fit men, is optional for women.
Maryam has now completed eight months of service as part of an approximately 11-month programme. She had originally hoped to pursue academic studies abroad, but her father's martyrdom reshaped her life's goals. Once spoiled and rebellious, she experienced a significant transformation, becoming more independent, responsible, and self-sufficient.
Challenges such as homesickness and emotional stress tested her resilience, but she credits the strong support from her fellow recruits for helping her persevere.
Today, Maryam is more disciplined and physically active, integrating a dedicated fitness routine into her busy daily schedule. She aims to further her military career by applying to the prestigious officer candidate school. Initially, her family was concerned about her path, but their feelings have shifted to deep pride, with her sister becoming her strongest and most steadfast supporter.
'National service isn't just about physical endurance. It builds character and brings out the best in you, especially for Emirati women,' she added.
She is currently completing her service at the distinguished Khawla Bint Al Azwar Military School in Al Ain, which includes fully equipped residential facilities and specialized training campuses.
From shyness to strength
For Kamla Mohammed Hassan Alblooshi, seeing Emirati women proudly in military uniform on TikTok sparked passion to serve the country. Despite her quiet upbringing, focused on home and university life, she made the courageous decision to join national service.
The 20-year-old woman living in Ajman initially missed her mother during her early days. However, she soon grew into a more independent and confident young woman. Her mother recognized this positive change and began to rely on her more. 'I became calmer with my family and more aware of myself,' she said.
Kamla, currently studying electrical engineering, paused her university studies to fully commit to national service and plans to resume them after completing her service. She is also considering a continued career in the military if the opportunity arises.
In the beginning, she faced difficulties with the intense heat, feelings of homesickness, and adapting to a strict routine. However, with the support of her fellow recruits and trainers, she managed to overcome these challenges. 'National service provided me with invaluable leadership skills and greatly boosted my self-esteem.'
Media dreams to military
When serving the country is a priority, it takes precedence over personal dreams. This was the case for Fatma Ahmed Alebri, a 24-year-old from Al Ain, who once envisioned a thriving career in media. However, with encouragement from her mother, she decided to join the national service and discovered a renewed sense of purpose.
During her service, she emerged with greater discipline, confidence, and leadership skills. She rose to become the respected team leader of her squad and now proudly represents Emirati women in uniform.
She did not give up on her dream, as she plans to return to her studies in media after completing her service and encourages other young women to take the leap without fear.
One of Fatma's most cherished moments was participating in the 'Waaqfat Walaa' (Loyalty Stand) on December 2, coinciding with the UAE's 53rd National Day and the 10th anniversary of the National and Reserve Service Law.
'We trained intensively to be ready. I'm truly grateful to the dedicated trainers, instructors, and officers who supported us. When we finally stood there and saw Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in person, tears of pride rolled down my cheeks. It was a profound feeling of pride and achievement I will never forget.'
Fatma later followed the public reaction on social media and was moved by the widespread appreciation. 'I saw people talking about the Loyalty Stand on social media. It made me feel that my participation was one of the most meaningful things I've ever done.'
The Loyalty Stand featured the largest-ever military assembly in the UAE's history, with thousands of national service and reserve recruits in a powerful display of unity. It marked a significant moment in the country's Union Day celebrations.
'I'm proud of who I've become'
When an individual knows they are supported by their family, it contributes to strengthening their self-confidence and abilities. With her father's continuous encouragement, Dana Helal Alshamsi, 19, from Sharjah, initially planned to enroll in university after high school. However, she eventually decided to follow her father's lead.
'I wanted to continue studying, but my dad wanted me to join the army,' she said.
The adjustment was tough. New routines, strict discipline, and early mornings changed her lifestyle completely. 'Everything changed: my sleep, food, and lifestyle,' she said. But strong support from her trainers helped her push through.
Now eight months into the programme, Dana is more self-assured, organized, and capable. She has developed strong leadership skills and greatly improved her communication.
'One of the hardest moments was when I thought of quitting,' she admitted. 'But my father believed in me and wouldn't let me give up.'
Today, Dana is more self-assured. She has developed leadership skills and improved her communication abilities.
The programme, explained
The comprehensive programme spans 11 months and is divided into three progressive phases: foundational, specialized, and operational. Recruits receive extensive training in marching, weaponry, marksmanship, and engineering, alongside rigorous academic lectures. Their development is continuously evaluated through demanding tests.
According to the official national service website, the conditions for enlistment include:
1. Emirati citizenship (passport and family book)
2. Age between 18 and 30 for men, and up to 35 for women
3. Medical fitness
4. Approval from the National and Reserve Service Committee
5. Guardian's approval for female recruits
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