DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Wednesday announced $544 million to repair the homes of Emirati families after last week’s record rains caused widespread flooding and brought the country to a standstill.
Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum announced the decision following a cabinet meeting, emphasizing the significant lessons learned from dealing with the severe rains. “We learned great lessons in dealing with severe rains,” said the Prime Minister.
The allocated funds, amounting to two billion dirhams, are intended to address the damage sustained by the residences of citizens affected by the calamity. “Ministers approved two billion dirhams to deal with damage to the homes of citizens.”
The announcement comes over a week after the historic rainfall inundated the nation, transforming streets into rivers and severely impacting Dubai airport, one of the world’s busiest hubs for international travelers.
Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as the ruler of Dubai, revealed that a ministerial committee has been established to oversee the disbursement of compensation in collaboration with federal and local authorities. Another committee has been tasked with assessing infrastructure damage and proposing solutions to mitigate future risks.
The torrential downpour, described as the heaviest on record in the UAE’s 75-year history, resulted in the tragic loss of at least four lives, including three Filipino workers and one Emirati. However, official figures regarding casualties have yet to be released by UAE authorities.
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, Sheikh Mohammed underscored the nation’s commitment to learning from every experience. Despite facing unprecedented challenges, he expressed confidence in the UAE’s resilience and capacity to adapt.
The aftermath of the storm left Dubai, renowned for its modern infrastructure and cosmopolitan lifestyle, grappling with widespread disruptions, including waterlogged roads and flooded homes. Dubai airport, a vital transportation hub, experienced significant operational disruptions, with thousands of flights canceled and diverted.
