(Abu Dhabi) – The President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has issued a decree implementing compulsory military service for Emirati men and stipulating the defence of the federation is a sacred duty for every citizen. According to the decree, the national military service, which is compulsory for all medically fit male citizens aged between 18 and 30, will further consolidate and develop the youth through scientific and practical training.
Federal Law No.6 for the Year 2014, which is in accordance with the principles of the UAE Constitution, as referred to in Article No. 43, states that defending the Union is a sacred duty of every citizen and national service is an honour for citizens as per the law.
The law aims to instill values of loyalty and sacrifice in the hearts of the citizens, linking them with the teachings of religion and the socialisation of different generations in terms of leadership characteristics, physical power and self-reliance, responsibility and discipline, respect of law, and time.
According to the law, published in the latest issue of the UAE Official Gazette, the establishment of the National and Reserve Service Authority at the General Headquarters of the Armed Forces has been endorsed. It will be for the higher authority to oversee matters relating to national service.
Enrolment will be optional for women after receipt of consent from their guardian, in accordance with the provisions of the law and associated regulations, decisions, regulations and instructions.
