Sheikh Hamdan hails UAE National Guard’s role in safeguarding the nation
<p><strong>Abu Dhabi:</strong> His Highness <strong>Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum</strong>, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, visited the <strong>National Guard headquarters in Abu Dhabi</strong> on Friday, where he praised the force’s unwavering dedication and its pivotal role in maintaining the country’s security and stability.</p><p>Sheikh Hamdan was welcomed by senior military leaders including <strong>Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei</strong>, Minister of State for Defence Affairs; <strong>Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei</strong>, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces; and <strong>Major General Saleh Mohammed bin Mejren Al Ameri</strong>, Commander of the National Guard. Several other senior officers were also present.</p><h3>Praise for the armed forces</h3><p>During the visit, Sheikh Hamdan lauded the armed forces’ <strong>loyalty, discipline, and advanced professional skills</strong>, describing their service as a national duty performed with “honour and selflessness.” He emphasized that safeguarding the nation’s achievements and ensuring the well-being of its people requires a combination of dedication and constant preparedness—qualities the National Guard continues to demonstrate.</p><p>“The National Guard embodies the values of loyalty, sacrifice, and excellence, serving as a symbol of the UAE’s resilience and its leadership’s vision to build a secure and stable nation,” Sheikh Hamdan said.</p><h3>Focus on readiness and capabilities</h3><p>Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the National Guard’s mission, particularly its role in <strong>enhancing coordination with other military and security bodies</strong>. The discussions also highlighted the Guard’s continued efforts to upgrade its human resources, technology, and operational systems in line with <strong>international standards of readiness and defence capability</strong>.</p><p>The Minister of Defence stressed the importance of further strengthening both <strong>human capital and technological advancements</strong> to meet future challenges. He noted that the UAE leadership’s investments in defence infrastructure are designed to ensure that the armed forces remain among the most capable and modern in the region.</p><h3>Field demonstration of excellence</h3><p>As part of his visit, Sheikh Hamdan attended a <strong>field demonstration</strong> showcasing the National Guard’s high level of operational preparedness. The display featured the Guard’s use of modern equipment, advanced tactical manoeuvres, and coordinated responses to potential security scenarios.</p><p>The Crown Prince of Dubai commended the professionalism displayed by the personnel, highlighting their <strong>strategic skills and innovative approaches</strong> to addressing evolving defence needs. He noted that such exercises not only boost operational efficiency but also serve as vital platforms for continuous training and skill development.</p><h3>Commitment to UAE’s security</h3><p>In his concluding remarks, Sheikh Hamdan underscored the UAE leadership’s commitment to ensuring that the armed forces remain at the forefront of protecting national interests. He praised the National Guard for its vital role in defending communities, safeguarding national sovereignty, and supporting broader regional stability.</p><p>“The National Guard represents the spirit of vigilance and readiness that defines our nation’s armed forces. Its preparedness reflects not only military strength but also the determination of its members to protect the UAE’s values and achievements,” Sheikh Hamdan said.</p><h3>Reflection of leadership’s vision</h3><p>The visit reaffirmed the UAE’s focus on continuous development of its defence sector. Sheikh Hamdan stressed that the achievements of the National Guard reflect the <strong>vision of the UAE’s leadership</strong>, which has prioritized investment in people, technology, and modern defence systems.</p><p>Through strategic upgrades, collaboration with global defence partners, and an emphasis on professional training, the National Guard stands as a cornerstone of the UAE’s comprehensive security strategy.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The visit by Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the critical role played by the <strong>UAE National Guard</strong> in ensuring the nation’s security and stability. With its advanced capabilities, disciplined personnel, and commitment to excellence, the Guard continues to serve as a trusted protector of the UAE’s people and progress.</p><p>Sheikh Hamdan’s praise not only recognized the dedication of the armed forces but also reinforced the UAE’s commitment to <strong>building a resilient, secure, and future-ready defence system</strong> that can meet emerging global challenges.</p>