The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has allocated $544 million (R10.7 billion) to repair homes damaged by devastating floods that left a trail of destruction across the oil-rich nation. The announcement comes more than a week after unprecedented rainfall battered the desert country, turning streets into rivers and submerging homes, causing widespread disruption.
Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, who is also the ruler of Dubai, one of the worst-hit emirates, stated that the funds will be utilized to compensate Emirati families for property damage incurred during the floods. He emphasized the lessons learned from the severe weather event and stressed the need for improved crisis management strategies.
The unprecedented rainfall, which dumped up to two years’ worth of rain on the country, has prompted authorities to establish a ministerial committee to oversee infrastructure damage assessment and propose solutions. Climatologist Friederike Otto attributed the heavy rainfall to human-induced climate change, highlighting the urgency of addressing global warming’s impact on extreme weather events.
The relentless storm, which initially struck Oman, killing at least 21 people, caused severe disruption in Dubai, a bustling metropolis known for its gleaming skyscrapers and luxury lifestyle. The city’s glamour was temporarily eclipsed as waterlogged roads and flooded homes brought daily life to a standstill. Dubai airport, the world’s busiest for international passengers, was forced to cancel and divert hundreds of flights due to the extreme weather conditions.
Despite the receding floodwaters, recovery efforts continue in Dubai, with public transport fully operational and major roads reopened to traffic. However, for residents like Matthew Faddy, a British expatriate whose ground-floor apartment was inundated, complete recovery is still days away. He described the water reaching chest-high levels at the height of the flooding and expressed hope that the water would subside within the coming week.
The UAE’s allocation of $544 million for home repairs serves as a testament to the country’s commitment to supporting its citizens and rebuilding infrastructure in the wake of the devastating floods. However, the event has also raised questions about crisis management and the impact of climate change on the region, highlighting the need for enhanced preparedness and adaptation measures for future challenges.
