On April 16, the UAE experienced unprecedented rains and flooding that left many residents in distress. However, in the face of this natural disaster, the community came together to support each other and help the country recover.
One heartwarming story that emerged from the floods was that of Indian expat Rahul, whose wife was admitted to the hospital in Ajman for delivery. Due to the heavy rains, Rahul was unable to move his car and sought help from a local garage. Instead of charging him a hefty sum for their services, the garage owner, Favaz, loaned Rahul his personal vehicle for two days until he could bring his newborn baby home. Favaz refused to accept any payment, stating that it was their duty to help fellow residents in need.
Al Asli Auto Maintenance, located in Ajman industrial area, also went above and beyond to assist those affected by the floods. The garage towed over 20 cars and provided free services to the owners who were struggling financially. Favaz mentioned that some garages were charging exorbitant fees for their services, but they wanted to help those who were in dire need, such as a woman going through a divorce with no savings or a jobless individual who had been laid off recently.
In Sharjah, Al Marwan Machinery mobilized its resources to clear the streets and assist in the recovery efforts. The company deployed over 40 large water tankers and trucks, along with heavy machinery, to move stranded vehicles, clear debris, and expedite the drying process. A dedicated crew of 50 people worked tirelessly to coordinate operations in key areas affected by the floods.
After the initial response, Al Marwan Construct, a sister-concern of the company, deployed dewatering pumps to clear water from impacted roads and neighborhoods. They also rebuilt a 1km stretch of road near Al Batayeh within 24 hours, providing crucial passage for residents cut off by the flooding.
In addition to these efforts, other companies also pitched in to support the relief efforts. Petsville, a pet daycare and boarding provider, offered free boarding at its Dubai Investment Park branch to support pet owners whose homes were severely impacted by the floods. McDonald’s provided 1,000 free meals to affected families and rescuers in collaboration with Sharjah Municipality, and also assisted Dubai Municipality in cleaning up roads and removing waste in the Al Quoz area.
The unity and compassion displayed by the community during and after the floods showcase the resilience and generosity of the people in the UAE. In times of crisis, it is heartening to see individuals and businesses come together to support each other and help rebuild the country.