People throng malls to watch homecoming ceremony on TV

People watch a video tribute to the UAE soldiers at the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, on Saturday. - Photo by Leslie Pableo

The heroes of the nation have been welcomed home with joy, as they arrived from Yemen, on Saturday morning.
The first batch of men who returned home after fulfilling their national duty, as part of the Saudi-led Arab Coalition forces, participating in Operation Home and restoring Yemen, were welcomed with open arms across the country.
Although not everyone had the opportunity to see the soldiers return during the ceremony, many were still able to have a glimpse of live action, as most malls and cafes allowed for live viewing of the joyful event.
Khaleej Times spoke to Abu Dhabi residents at the malls to know what the heroes of the nation personally mean to them.
Mekhaizen Al Mansoori, said that he was nothing short of proud of the soldiers who sacrificed all they can to protect not only their nation, but countries which surround UAE.
"These soldiers are helping the Arab nations to become stronger," he said, adding that, "they are helping us all become one union."
The 33-year-old Emirati father pointed out that it's all about protecting those in danger. "We are helping the poor people, these men are seen as heroes because they are helping those in need and protecting them from those who want to take away their rights," he added.
He highlighted that the martyred soldiers will forever be remembered, honoured and appreciated, because they sacrificed their lives for the freedom and the peace that every citizen should have the right to. "If I had the chance, I would tell the families of the martyred soldiers, please be happy, your sons done something great, for our country and the Arab nations."
"They sacrificed their lives for the safety of our country, and I hope that one day I will be with these soldiers," he added.
Khalifa Jalal also shared what the heroes of the nation mean to him.
"The soldiers and our leaders simply want to help those who are suffering."
The 31-year-old Emirati noted that helping those in need was something that was passed down by the Father of the Nation, the late president, Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
"They are going to Yemen and doing all they can do to help them, without taking anything in return, it's simply because we want to protect those in need," he said. "We are very proud of our men who returned today, and we hope the others will also return with their heads help up high, and our leaders too," he added.
Marwan, another Abu Dhabi resident, who happened to be watching the live broadcast in one of the restaurants at Marina Mall, told Khaleej Times that UAE's soldiers have brought pride and joy to every resident, no matter their backgrounds or nationalities.
"This is a moment of pride for everyone living here," he said, adding that, "this land makes us all proud."
He pointed out that the heroic acts of the military have certainly lived up to the expectations of the nation.
"The soldiers are working hard to protect the Yemeni people, so they will always be seen as heroes."
Not only are Emiratis proud of the soldiers, but expats are equally celebrating their return to UAE soil.
Muneeb Irshesit said that the commitment to safeguarding peace and stability in the region is what's crucial, and thus the soldiers are a vision of peace. "They are risking their lives to protect our region from those who wish to cause harm," said the 20-year-old.
Omar Abdullah, from Palestine, highlighted on the notion that our soldiers are the pure representation of bravery and freedom.
"They risk and sacrifice their lives for peace," he said, adding that, "UAE is one of the safest countries and these men are the heroes of the UAE."
"It's a difficult job what these soldiers do. I recall that one of the soldiers who passed away was speaking to his friend a day before he was martyred, he was telling his friend 'I will see you soon'."
The 26-year-old noted that although lives were gone, they would never be forgotten.
"The martyred soldiers will always remain alive, they are in paradise," he said.
"The families should forever be proud of their heroic sons."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com