Older Emiratis support national service for nation’s youth

Parents to encourage their children to take part in the National Service law.

ABU DHABI // Parents are keen for their children to be called up for military service, believing it to be not only vital for the country but to help them grow to become leaders.

“I believe parental guidance is very important at the moment to help spread encouragement to the young children,” said Ebrahim Al Mazrouei, 53, a retired government worker.

“It is necessary to instil the concept in the youth, and that they are brought up with it so by the time they are eight to 10 years old, they will be ready and prepared for the service when the time comes.”

He said the law was beneficial for the nation and its citizens. He described the lives of many young men as “empty” and said most were “wasting their time”.

“The military service will give them a better look on standards, and it will show them how to invest in their time well,” he said.

He said another benefit was to keep enemies of the state at bay.

Mr Al Mazrouei received military training when he was 18, and said he implements the lessons he learned in his daily life.

Salma Al Hameli, 49, said the law came at the right time. Ms Al Hameli, who has five sons and three daughters, said she would like to see all her children commit to national service.

“We see what happens in other countries and in war zones like Syria. Even girls need to know the basics,” she said.

She said it was a positive move for the future, and would strengthen nationals.

“At this time, most men will approve of the law. This is what men need to realise this is how they will grow and become responsible men who are capable of handling the hardships of life,” she said.

“The service will give them a goal, and they will get back to our Islamic religion and traditions. Older brothers and uncles will be leaders and role models, and they will instil their loyalty to younger generations in the family.”