Hello and welcome to Emirati, a monthly newsletter from The National.

Earlier this month, the UAE received the largest amount of rain to fall in a single day in 75 years.

The volume of water was like nothing citizens and residents had ever seen before. Flights were diverted, roads were flooded and schools were suspended.

Amid the chaos, a picture of solidarity became evident. Although some Emiratis required government assistance, others left the safety of their homes to help those trapped in their houses.

Heroic endeavour was seen across the country and the story of Emirati volunteers who helped those caught in the eye of the storm is worthy of note.

They quickly mobilised into action via WhatsApp messages to a fully organised relief effort involving dozens of volunteers.

It was heartwarming to speak to people such as Jamal Al Janahi and Saud Al Nuaimi, who stepped up during this time of crisis.

Their dedication to helping others showed their commitment to their community. Their actions were and still continue to be a testament to the resilience and compassion of the human spirit, leaving a lasting legacy of unity and solidarity in the UAE.

Thank you for reading,

Shireena Al Nowais

Emirati jet ski racers ride to rescue after UAE inundated by storms

An intrepid team of Emirati volunteers, including jet ski racing champions and scuba divers, rode to the rescue after the UAE was engulfed by its worst storms on record.

The 40-strong group of men and women came together to navigate flooded roads and streets to help bring stranded residents to safety and deliver crucial food and medical supplies.

The remarkable grassroots response was mobilised by an impassioned plea for support sent out on WhatsApp.

Their efforts typified the courageous efforts of citizens and expatriates across the Emirates to offer a lifeline to those in need after the country was lashed by historic rainfall.

The rallying cry was issued by jet ski competitors Jamal Al Janahi, 33, and Saud Al Nuaimi, 37, both from Ajman, who were determined to use their sporting prowess to help others out of troubled waters.

“I’ve always loved to help. Ever since I was young, if anyone’s car was stuck anywhere, I would get my car and help pull them out,” said Mr Al Janahi.

The father-of-three also used his trusty off-road SUV to battle through rough terrain made largely inaccessible by the unprecedented deluge.

“Helping others is what I have always done and want to die doing,” he said.

“It isn’t only about being Emirati; it's about being human.”

Did you know?

The UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology reported that the country experienced up to 250mm of rain in less than 24 hours. To put this in perspective, the Emirates is known for its dry desert climate and usually receives about 140mm to 200mm of rainfall a year.

UAE storms show we must climate-proof our futures

The violent storms and torrential rain that lashed the UAE and neighbouring countries have been a sobering reminder not only of the power of nature, but of the effect humanity is having on the planet’s climate. Although life in the Emirates was disrupted, it was Oman that bore the brunt of the extreme weather, losing 18 people who found themselves trapped in wadis that quickly flooded.

Sadly, it is not the first time the Middle East and North Africa has been struck by such extreme rainfall. Last year, more than 5,000 people lost their lives when Storm Daniel dropped more than 400mm of rain on north-east Libya in less than 24 hours. The divided country’s many difficulties left it woefully unprepared for such a crisis, raising the question: How can nations in this region climate-proof their future?

Dubai developers offer free repairs and services

A number of property developers in Dubai have said they will repair flood-damaged homes in their communities at no cost to residents.

Emaar and Mag said earlier this month they would be paying for necessary repairs at homes damaged by the floods that brought the city to a standstill.

Experts told The National that the number of people in the UAE with home insurance was “shockingly low”, with less than 15 per cent of UAE residents covered.