‘Protectors of the Nation: Generosity and Sacrifice’ Exhibition at Etihad Museum Highlights the UAE Armed Forces’ International Efforts in Peacekeeping

At the ‘Protectors of the Nation: Generosity and Sacrifice’ exhibition, which is currently being held at the Etihad Museum, the ‘International Missions’ section highlights the many tasks that the UAE Armed Forces have accomplished around the world.

The UAE Armed Forces have participated in numerous peacekeeping and humanitarian missions abroad since the nation’s unification. The UAE military expertise has contributed to strengthening the country’s leading role internationally, including providing medical care, protecting civilians and helping to re-establish security in troubled areas. The missions reflect the government’s commitment to supporting the international community, maintaining security, promoting peace and safeguarding the innocent.

One of the UAE Armed Forces’ foreign duties was a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon in 1976, which was part of the pan-Arab mission named ‘Arab Deterrent Forces’. The UAE Armed Forces were also part of the international coalition to liberate Kuwait in 1991, as well as the process of restoring hope in Somalia in 1993 as part of a United Nations mission. In addition, Emirati troops took part in the NATO-led peacekeeping campaign in Kosovo and set up camps for more than 15,000 refugees. To honour the UAE Armed Forces, the exhibition displays the medals and military uniforms from each of these important missions.   

The exhibition was organised by the Dubai Museums Company, a Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) entity, in partnership with the Ministry of Defense and General Command of the Armed Forces, The Center of Museum and Military History, and the main sponsor Pure Health. While highlighting the remarkable history of the UAE Armed Forces, the exhibition also celebrates the individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving the nation and explores the UAE's pioneering efforts in spreading tolerance, fraternity and positive values ​​worldwide through humanitarian missions.

The Etihad Museum is open from 10:00am to 8:00pm, seven days a week. Admission fees for visitors are AED 25 for those aged 25 and above, AED 20 for groups and AED 10 for those aged between five and 24, while children below the age of five and visitors with special needs are admitted for free. 

Dubai Culture aims to enhance Dubai’s cultural scene and draw attention to the Emirate’s rich heritage with a variety of initiatives that take place throughout the year. The Authority’s mandate is to build bridges of constructive dialogue between different civilisations and cultures through enriching initiatives that benefit the Emirate’s citizens, residents and visitors.