UAE's firm commitment to combating terrorism

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has maintained a steadfast stance against terrorism, reflecting its firm belief that combating terrorist groups and their supporters is a shared responsibility crucial for the survival of human civilization.

The UAE has consistently underscored the importance of mobilizing international efforts to confront this grave threat to global security. As one of the first nations to recognize the growing danger of terrorism, the UAE has long advocated for both regional and global cooperation to address and eliminate extremist threats.

The UAE's role in combating terrorism is evident in its active participation in the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen and its significant involvement in Operation Decisive Storm since March 2015. 

UAE Armed Forces played a decisive role in countering the Houthi terrorist militias' plans to control Yemen and use it as a platform to threaten neighboring countries and international maritime navigation through the strategic Gulf of Aden and the Bab Al Mandeb Strait.

Beyond targeting the Houthis, UAE forces inflicted critical blows against Al Qaeda and Daesh in Yemen, liberating numerous cities and regions from extremist control. The UAE also secured key maritime routes, disrupting the Houthis' attempts to threaten global trade through the Red Sea and Bab Al Mandeb.

Addressing Yemen's deteriorating humanitarian situation has been a top priority for the UAE. The country quickly established air and sea relief corridors to combat famine, poverty, and the collapse of health and education services caused by the conflict initiated by the Houthis. 

The UAE implemented emergency programs to rebuild critical infrastructure and combat epidemics like cholera, dengue fever, and malaria, while improving living conditions for vulnerable populations, including those in Houthi-controlled areas.

Global Efforts to Counter Extremism

The UAE has actively contributed to numerous regional and international coalitions against terrorism. Notably, in 2014, the UAE joined the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh, participating in military operations in Syria alongside Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar. These operations significantly hindered Daesh's expansion and prevented the group from gaining further control in Iraq and beyond.

The UAE has also spearheaded multiple initiatives to promote tolerance and counter radical ideologies. In July 2015, it launched the Sawab Centre, an interactive online platform supporting the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh by countering extremist propaganda.

In July 2014, the UAE established the Muslim Council of Elders in Abu Dhabi, the first independent international body dedicated to promoting peace within the Islamic world. This effort was complemented by the Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies, a key platform addressing sectarian and ideological conflicts.

Additionally, in December 2012, the UAE inaugurated Hedayah - The International Centre of Excellence for Countering Violent Extremism, focusing on preventive strategies. The center works with global partners to dissuade individuals from radicalization and violent extremism, offering pathways away from extremism.

The UAE's comprehensive approach to combating terrorism combines military action, humanitarian aid, and ideological countermeasures. By fostering international partnerships and promoting tolerance, the UAE remains a crucial player in global efforts to achieve lasting peace and security.