What began as a tribute to a fallen hero became a personal journey of transformation for Maryam Abdulla Saleh Albadri, an 18-year-old from Abu Dhabi. After her father, a member of the UAE Armed Forces, was martyred in 2022, Maryam’s life took an unexpected turn.
“Honestly, I never thought about it,” she told Khaleej Times, referring to joining the military. “But after my father passed away, I felt my true place was in the army, where he served with honour and gave his life for our country.”
Maryam is one of a growing number of Emirati women who have voluntarily enrolled in the UAE’s national service programme, a rigorous 11-month training scheme that is mandatory for men but optional for women.
Her decision, driven by personal loss and national pride, reflects a broader shift in societal attitudes towards women in uniform — a space traditionally dominated by men.
Now eight months into her service, Maryam has transformed from a once “spoiled and rebellious” teenager to a disciplined, self-sufficient young woman.
Based at the Khawla Bint Al Azwar Military School in Al Ain — the UAE’s premier military training facility for women — she endures the physical and emotional demands of the programme with resilience.
“National service isn’t just about physical endurance. It builds character and brings out the best in you, especially for Emirati women,” she says.
While Maryam initially had plans to study abroad, her father’s death reshaped her life goals. Today, she is applying to the prestigious officer candidate school, aspiring to build a lasting career in the armed forces.
Once concerned about her choice, her family now beams with pride. Her sister, in particular, has become her strongest supporter.
TikTok Inspiration Sparks Service
For Kamla Mohammed Hassan Alblooshi, a 20-year-old from Ajman, inspiration came not from personal loss but from social media. Seeing other Emirati women proudly donning military uniforms on TikTok struck a chord with her.
“I was always a quiet girl, focused on home and university. But something changed when I saw those videos,” Kamla said. Though she initially struggled with homesickness and the intense desert heat, Kamla found solace in the camaraderie of fellow recruits.
A student of electrical engineering, she paused her studies to devote herself fully to national service. “It’s been life-changing,” she said. “National service provided me with invaluable leadership skills and greatly boosted my self-esteem.”
Kamla’s story reflects a new generation of young Emirati women who are choosing national service as a rite of passage — a means of developing discipline, leadership, and personal growth.
From Media Dreams to Military Ranks
Fatma Ahmed Alebri, 24, from Al Ain, once envisioned a media career. But at her mother’s encouragement, she joined national service and discovered a new path.
During her training, Fatma’s leadership potential became clear — she rose to the position of squad leader and emerged as a proud representative of Emirati women in the military.
Despite temporarily shelving her media ambitions, Fatma hasn’t let go of her dream. “I plan to return to my studies in media after completing my service,” she said. “But I’ll always carry the lessons and pride from this experience.”
Fatma’s most unforgettable moment came during the “Waaqfat Walaa” (Loyalty Stand) ceremony held on December 2, 2023, marking both the UAE’s 53rd National Day and the 10th anniversary of the National and Reserve Service Law.
The event featured the largest-ever military assembly in UAE history. “When I stood there and saw Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in person, tears of pride rolled down my cheeks,” she recalled.
The massive display of unity not only left an impression on participants but also resonated widely on social media. “I saw people talking about it online. It made me feel that my participation was one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done,” said Fatma.
‘My Father Believed in Me’
For 19-year-old Dana Helal Alshamsi from Sharjah, the push to join came from her father. “I wanted to continue studying, but my dad wanted me to join the army,” she said.
Initially hesitant, Dana soon found herself immersed in a world of strict discipline, early wake-ups, and demanding routines. “Everything changed — my sleep, food, and lifestyle,” she said.
Like many recruits, Dana found the transition difficult. At times, she even considered quitting. “One of the hardest moments was when I thought of giving up,” she admitted. “But my father believed in me and wouldn’t let me.”
Eight months later, Dana stands taller — literally and figuratively. She is now more self-assured, communicative, and organized. The girl who once leaned on others is now someone her peers can rely on.
The National Service Journey
The UAE’s national service programme spans 11 months and is divided into three progressive stages: foundational, specialized, and operational.
Recruits undergo rigorous physical training and academic instruction in areas ranging from weaponry and engineering to leadership and ethics. They are continuously evaluated through written and physical assessments.
Female recruits must meet several requirements: they must be Emirati citizens aged between 18 and 35, medically fit, and approved by the National and Reserve Service Committee. Additionally, they need guardian consent to enroll.
The Khawla Bint Al Azwar Military School in Al Ain plays a central role in training women. The school is equipped with residential facilities and specialized training campuses, creating a supportive yet disciplined environment.
Breaking Barriers, Building Futures
As more Emirati women step into military boots, they are redefining gender roles in a region where traditional expectations are still evolving. Whether driven by legacy, curiosity, social media, or parental guidance, these young women are united by a shared sense of purpose.
Maryam, Kamla, Fatma, and Dana represent a growing cadre of women who view national service not as an interruption to life but as a foundation for it. Their stories are testimonials to a generation that sees patriotism and personal growth as intertwined missions.
“Serving in the military doesn’t mean giving up your dreams,” Fatma said. “It just means learning discipline and strength — qualities that will serve you anywhere, whether in uniform or behind a media desk.”
As the UAE celebrates over a decade of its National and Reserve Service Law, the presence of women in the armed forces stands as a powerful symbol of progress. From grief to grit, hesitation to honour, these young women are proving that service, in all its forms, begins with courage.