The UAE has announced a Dh2 billion fund to assist citizens in repairing homes damaged by last week’s unprecedented rains and subsequent floods. A ministerial committee has been established to evaluate damages and distribute compensation.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, described last week’s rains as “unprecedented”. The country’s control rooms received over 200,000 distress calls from residents, highlighting the significant damage to residential properties.
On Tuesday, April 16, the UAE experienced a year’s worth of rain in a single day, with 6.04 billion cubic meters of rainwater recorded in 24 hours, compared to the annual average of 6.7 billion cubic meters. This resulted in flooding in multiple communities and homes, flight cancellations, disruptions in public transport services, and motorists stranded on waterlogged roads.
“The severity of the weather situation was unprecedented. But we are a country that learns from every experience and develops itself,” said Sheikh Mohammed during a Cabinet meeting in Abu Dhabi. More than 17,000 security and emergency services personnel responded to the aftermath of the rains, with thousands of volunteers assisting in rescues, managing traffic, and providing essentials to those unable to leave their homes.
President Sheikh Mohamed emphasized the UAE government’s top priority of ensuring the safety and security of citizens and residents. He directed authorities to evaluate the country’s infrastructure and mitigate the damage from floods.
Tragically, at least four people lost their lives in the floods. An Emirati died after his car was swept away, while two Filipinos suffocated in their vehicle. Another person passed away in an accident. Despite the challenges, the UAE has learned valuable lessons and enhanced its readiness for future events, with Sheikh Mohammed noting the positive impact on dams, valleys, and groundwater reserves.