UAE allocates $544.6 million for home repairs in flood-affected areas: Progress towards recovery and normalcy | World News

The United Arab Emirates recently faced one of the worst storms in 75 years, causing extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and disrupting daily life. The heavy rainfall led to flooding in various regions of the Arabian Peninsula, with Dubai experiencing record-breaking rainfall of over 14 cm in just 24 hours.

In response to the crisis, the UAE cabinet approved 2 billion dirhams ($544.6 million) to assist residents in dealing with the aftermath of the storm. Prime Minister and Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum announced the aid, emphasizing the government’s commitment to helping those affected by the unprecedented weather event.

President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan had previously instructed authorities to assess the damage and provide support to families impacted by the storm. The government’s aid comes in addition to private assistance, with developers in Dubai offering to cover the costs of necessary repairs for affected residents.

Major real estate developers such as MAG, Emaar Properties, Damac Properties, Nakheel, Dubai Holding, Union Properties, and Dubai Investment Park have pledged to repair properties in their communities at no cost to residents. They are also providing additional services such as alternative housing, pest control, cleaning services, risk assessment, insurance claim documentation, and food distribution to affected communities.

The UAE central bank has directed lenders and insurers to defer loan repayments for six months to ease the financial burden on those affected by the storm. However, concerns have been raised about vehicle repair bills, with some motorists facing costs as high as Rs 9 lakh (40,000 Dirhams) if their insurance claims are denied.

In Sharjah, homeowners can apply for aid through the Sharjah Digital Platform to receive assistance for damages caused by natural disasters. Meanwhile, a small number of people in the UAE have shown symptoms of water poisoning after the heavy rains and floods. The health ministry is monitoring the situation and providing treatment to those affected.

A study by international climate scientists has linked the heavy rainfall event in the UAE and Oman to climate change and El Nino. Rainfall events during El Nino years have become 10-40% heavier in the region, with warming caused by fossil fuel emissions likely contributing to the escalating rainfall.

As the UAE continues to recover from the devastating storm, the government and private sector are working together to support residents and rebuild communities. The aid provided by the government and the generosity of developers demonstrate a united effort to help those in need during this challenging time.