The women’s majlis: Military service can be good for the UAE

Each month, Weekend will pose a different question to be debated on by a series of female Emirati columnists. This week, we ask Sarah Ebrahim Beddah Al Awadhi:

What are your thoughts on the newly announced military-service law for both men and women?

The United Arab Emirates is a country where generosity speaks through actions. In other words, whatever the UAE does, it is always more than enough. Sometimes, we feel like we are in heaven.

I am thankful for being a UAE local and so proud of my country. But, when I say that I am a proud Emirati, it sounds wrong somehow. I am proud of my country, but am I proud of myself? As a local, am I giving enough in return? Am I doing things that make me a true proud Emirati?

Serving and giving back to my country was always a goal on my bucket list. And after hearing about the passing of the new military-service legislation by the UAE Cabinet in January, I believed that the time had come when I have a chance to achieve my goal.

The legislation decrees that military service is mandatory for all Emirati men between the ages of 18 and 30, and an optional choice for Emirati women.

Emiratis who have finished secondary school will complete nine months of service, while those who have not will serve for two years.

Speaking frankly, getting yourself into military service and serving your nation is not an easy task. One must commit when one decides to take this path.

Representing your country is a huge responsibility. I’m saying that because I’m already representing the UAE every day via my actions, at events and at the places that I go where I’m the only local, as well as in the way that I network, in regards to my culture and traditions.

When it comes to Islam, it doesn’t forbid military service for women. And, in many other countries, military service is a mandatory duty.

However, as a girl living in Arab society and adhering to Middle Eastern culture, it’s going to be somehow difficult to go on a nine-month period of military service. And as military is traditionally a man’s job, it’s complicated when it comes to convincing your parents and families that what you have decided to do is the correct choice.

On the other hand, the UAE is supporting this decision by making it a mandatory thing for Emirati men and showing how important the duty is for the ­country.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said: “Protecting the nation and preserving its independence and sovereignty is a sacred national duty.”

I’m satisfied by this decision that the UAE made towards a better future. It’s time for us, as Emiratis, to step up and handle the responsibilities of our nation.

I am committed to joining for the nine-month military service and becoming a truly proud Emirati.

Sarah Ebrahim Beddah Al Awadhi works in a digital marketing department, and has degrees in marketing and politics.

Follow us @LifeNationalUAE

Follow us on Facebook for discussions, entertainment, reviews, wellness and news.