President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates recently extended his congratulations to the UAE Urban Search and Rescue team for maintaining their esteemed “heavy” classification. This top-tier international rating, granted by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), a UN-affiliated body, underscores the team’s exceptional capabilities in emergency preparedness and disaster response. This recognition marks the third instance that the team from the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has earned this elite status, further bolstering the UAE’s reputation on the global stage.
In his remarks, Sheikh Mohamed commended the team for their professionalism, commitment, and high level of operational readiness. He emphasized their swift response capabilities to both local and international natural disasters and humanitarian crises. According to Sheikh Mohamed, this achievement not only highlights the team’s skill and dedication but also reflects the UAE’s steadfast commitment to humanitarian values and enhancing its global position in the realm of disaster management.
The achievement ceremony took place at the Qasr Al Bahr Palace, where Sheikh Mohamed personally acknowledged the team’s accomplishments. The event was graced by the presence of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, as well as other senior officials and distinguished guests. This gathering served as a testament to the importance the UAE places on its disaster response initiatives and the pride it takes in its internationally recognized teams.
Maintaining the “heavy” classification is a significant accomplishment, as it demonstrates the UAE team’s capacity to effectively manage complex search and rescue operations. This status is the highest level of recognition INSARAG awards, underscoring the UAE’s strong capabilities and leadership in emergency response. The team’s consistent performance in securing this classification is a clear indicator of the rigorous training and dedication that the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority invests in its personnel.