ABU DHABI // The fifth batch of female recruits for National Service has been admitted to the Khawla bint Al Azwar Military School.
The volunteers will be trained by female coaches in military skills, leadership, self-development and lessons in religion, state news agency Wam reported.
Under UAE laws, public and private sector companies are obliged to let recruits perform their service.
They also have to pay recruits’ salaries, bonuses and benefits during their service period.
The recruits will be given fitness and nutrition training to ensure that they can complete their military training, according to the National and Reserve Service Authority.
Major General Sheikh Ahmed bin Tahnoon, the authority’s chairman, said National Service would teach recruits patience and sacrifice.
He also hailed Emirati women for their persistence and determination that made them “a trustworthy role model in many fields”.
The number of female cadets was proof of women’s success in the military, said Sheikh Ahmed.
In July, military training began for the first batch of volunteers for National Service. Hundreds of Emirati men between 30 and 40 years old registered at recruitment centres.
Although it is mandatory for men between 18 and 30 to perform 12 months of National Service, women in that age group can volunteer.
Older Emiratis who wish to volunteer must first secure a no-objection letter from their employers. They will complete 15 weeks of training, unlike younger recruits, who spend a year in uniform.
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