The United Arab Emirates has announced a whopping $544 million to repair the homes of Emirati families following the devastating floods caused by last week’s record-breaking rains. Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum revealed the government’s plan after a cabinet meeting, stating that a total of two billion dirhams will be allocated to address the damage to citizens’ homes.
The unprecedented deluge, which was the heaviest in the UAE’s 75-year recorded history, claimed the lives of at least four individuals, including three Filipino workers and one Emirati. The aftermath of the storm left streets submerged, disrupted daily life, and even brought Dubai Airport, the world’s busiest for international passengers, to a standstill.
In response to the crisis, the UAE government has formed ministerial committees to oversee the distribution of compensation to affected families and assess infrastructure damage. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the importance of learning from this experience and improving crisis management in the future.
Despite the challenges posed by the extreme weather event, the UAE is determined to bounce back and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. The government’s swift action and financial commitment demonstrate a strong dedication to supporting those affected by the natural disaster.
Experts have also weighed in on the situation, with climatologist Friederike Otto suggesting that human-caused climate change likely played a role in intensifying the rainfall. As the UAE continues to recover from the aftermath of the storm, efforts to mitigate the impact of future extreme weather events will be crucial in safeguarding the country and its residents.