ABU DHABI // Just after first light yesterday, the convoy of military vehicles left Al Hamra base, not far from the Saudi border.
It had already woven its way home from Yemen, carrying soldiers at the end of their tour of duty and brave, frontline battles against the Houthi insurgents.
The troops, many proudly waving UAE flags from the roofs of their vehicles, have been relieved on rotation by a second force to continue battling the rebels as part of the Arab coalition.
A day of receptions was held for the heroes at Zayed Military City in Sweihan. They were shown on giant screens at Abu Dhabi’s Corniche and malls across the UAE.
The kilometres-long convoy was greeted along the route to Zayed Military City by Emiratis and expatriates, waving the country’s flag and cheering loudly.
They took the chance to express their joy by lining the route through towns such as Tarif and Mirfa in scenes broadcast on Abu Dhabi TV.
Emiratis held up pictures of sheikhs from around the UAE, including some of Founding President Sheikh Zayed.
People said they were proud and happy to see the men returning with victory after liberating provinces such as Marib and Aden.
As the convoy made its way down main streets, led by a man carrying the flag on horseback, schoolchildren handed roses to soldiers. Many other children wore military uniform.
Women lined the roads, throwing flower petals on to soldiers sitting on top of military vehicles.
The convoy headed to Sweihan to celebrate with the public just after noon.
At Zayed Military City, crowds were led by Rulers including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Brig Dr Khalifa Al Rumaithy, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence, explained the rotation of the troops.
“It is normal to rotate troops,” he said. “They are switched after there is an alternative team ready who know all of the strategies.
“The rotation is not a full one but it strengthens the military forces in Yemen, and the new soldiers have seen that more than 70 per cent of Yemen has been liberated so they are optimistic.”
Brig Dr Al Rumaithy said the UAE invested in its people more than in its weapons, which was a major reason for their success.
“The men coming in today are young and the victory in Bab Al Mandeb has shocked the western world because it showed how powerful the investment has been,” he said.
Brig Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Deputy Commander of Abu Dhabi Police, said it was a duty for Emiratis to stand by Yemenis.
“We must stand by our brothers, and what we have seen so far has portrayed the unity of the country and answers those sceptics about the UAE,” he said.
aalkhoori@thenational.ae