Missing Emirati brothers’ family to receive visitors as search continues

A tent has been set up at the home of Al Ain brothers to receive well-wishers as Omani officials continue with the search.

AL AIN // The uncle of the two Emiratis who went missing off the coast of Oman said that the family would begin receiving consolation and solace at their home in Asharaej from Monday.

“It’s not a wake, but we’re opening our home to accept well-wishers at this time of grief. It is customary that after the 10th day of someone going missing at sea to do so,” said Saeed Al Dhaheri, the uncle of the two brothers.

“We haven’t lost hope and we are still keeping the faith that there might be some good news.”

“My other two brothers, Ali and Saoud, were in Oman helping out with rescue efforts, but are returning home to be with the rest of the family.”

The uncle said that the family has contacted Islamic scholars to find out what should be done in special circumstances, as the missing brothers have not yet been found. “They weren’t pronounced dead and rescue operations are still ongoing,” said Mr Al Dhaheri.

There are no current plans to hold a funeral prayer in absentia.

Saeed Al Dhaheri’s two nephews, Abdullah, 21, and Mansour, 19, were swimming off the southern coast of Oman on July 23 when they went missing in rough waves. Abdullah may have drowned trying to save his brother, according to friends who were with them that day.

“We appreciate all the support we’ve received from everyone during this rough period and hope that Allah would reward everyone for the kindness they’ve bestowed upon us,” their uncle said.

A large number of members from the Emirati community is expected to rally behind the family this week. A tent has been set up to receive well-wishers. The two missing brothers have seven siblings.

Omani authorities continue to search for the duo, covering an area of 208 kilometres, according to the Omani public authority of civil defence and ambulance. The search also included surrounding coves filled with water.

Helicopters, boats and jet skis were all used during the rescue efforts. There are no immediate plans by the Omani authorities to call off the search.

The young men were on a recreational trip for the Eid Al Fitr holiday, visiting the town of Mirbat, east of Salalah.