Today's Edition
By Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali
The writer is the Chief Executive Officer of the think-tank and research firm TRENDS and Research
On January 17, 2022, the UAE faced an unprecedented challenge when the Houthi militia launched a terrorist attack using drones and ballistic missiles targeting civilian areas and facilities in Abu Dhabi.
The attack, which claimed the lives of three innocent people and injured six others, was not merely an act of aggression; it was an attempt to strike at the UAE's model of tolerance and prosperity.
However, the preparedness and swift response of the UAE Armed Forces, emergency services and law enforcement agencies demonstrated the UAE's resilience and capability to deter aggression.
More importantly, the events of January 17 highlighted the strength of the values and principles on which the UAE's unique societal model is built. Since its foundation, the UAE has stood as a model of cultural diversity, a homeland of coexistence, a beacon of human tolerance, a hub of economic prosperity, and an oasis of stability and peace in a turbulent region.
These values have ensured the UAE's leadership and progress. It is precisely these values that have made the UAE a target for terrorist groups whose sole aim it is to spread chaos and destruction while serving dubious agendas that do not represent the Yemeni people or their interests.
Through its swift and decisive response to the attacks, the UAE successfully thwarted these malicious plans and reaffirmed its commitment to its founding values. The UAE has always prioritised preserving its cultural and ethnic diversity, a characteristic that sets it apart from other societies.
The country is home to more than 200 nationalities, living together in peaceful coexistence and social harmony. Over the years, the UAE leadership has worked tirelessly to promote tolerance through pioneering initiatives, such as the "Year of Tolerance", the creation of the Ministry of Tolerance, and the Abrahamic Family House, which aims to foster understanding between cultures and promote interfaith harmony.
Another pillar of the UAE's strength is its economic prosperity. Over several decades, the UAE has transformed itself into a global hub for trade, tourism, technology and innovation.
This prosperity is not limited to wealth but extends to opportunities, stability and a forward-looking vision that has empowered its people and enhanced their well-being.
The January 17 attack was, above all, an attempt to undermine the UAE's model of stability and progress. However, in the end, this model proved its strength, resilience and success. The Houthis and their backers sought to spread fear and division within the UAE's diverse and opportunity-rich society.
Yet, the unity and solidarity demonstrated by the Emirati people during the crisis sent a clear message that efforts to weaken the nation's social fabric would only reinforce its cohesion and determination.
Rather than succumbing to fear or hostility, the UAE, its leadership and its people stood united and resolute, demonstrating that tolerance remains a powerful shield against terrorism. The UAE's response to the attack was not one of revenge but of resilience, reflecting the strength of its values even in times of adversity.
These values formed the solid foundation upon which all relevant state institutions confronted this terrorist attack as well as similar desperate attempts by other terrorist and extremist groups that oppose successful development models and thriving nations in the region.
On the international stage, the attack further underscored the high regard for the UAE's leadership and the effectiveness of Emirati diplomacy. The UAE received broad international support, as countries and organisations worldwide strongly condemned the Houthi terrorist attacks.
By calling for unity against extremism and reaffirming its commitment to peace in Yemen, the UAE reinforced its position as a leader in the global fight against terrorism. The nation's response sent a powerful message that terrorism cannot hinder the progress of a country built on tolerance and prosperity.
The UAE's ability to withstand and recover from crises, such as on January 17, is not solely attributed to its advanced defence systems or economic strength. Rather, it is deeply rooted in its unwavering commitment to human tolerance and coexistence. In an increasingly divided world, the UAE stands as a beacon of unity, offering a model of success that highlights the power of social harmony and peace over hatred and conflict.
As the UAE continues to look toward the future, it does so with confidence that tolerance and prosperity are its greatest assets. These values not only define the nation's identity but also guarantee its resilience in the face of terrorism and crises, serving as a beacon of hope for a world seeking security, progress and peace.
