Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has thanked Emirati families for their commitment to national service following the decision to extend it from 12 to 16 months.
He said Emiratis have demonstrated positivity, enthusiasm and readiness to undertake the commitment in a message on Twitter.
“They have expressed loyalty, dedication and allegiance which are deeply rooted among the spirit of Zayed's children,” Sheikh Mohammed wrote.
He extended his greetings to the parents of young Emiratis who will serve their country.
“You are a generation with a noble mission and a pride to your nation and every Emirati home,” he added.
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Read more:
Emirati families express support for extension of compulsory national military service
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Compulsory national service was introduced in 2014.
It applies to all Emirati men aged between 18 and 30. Women of the same age group can volunteer, as can men aged between 30 and 40.
The newly lengthened military duty applies to young men holding a secondary high school certificate and above. It has been widely welcomed among Emiratis as instilling discipline and pride in young people.