15th December 2025
The UAE Disaster Rescue Team, headed by Dr Hamoud Saeed Hareb Al Afari, Overall Head of the UAE Relief Team, and comprising 74 personnel, was formally commended for their outstanding humanitarian service rendered to Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwa on 15 December 2025 at Heritance Hotel, Negambo.
The UAE team arrived in Sri Lanka on 01 December 2025, at a time when the country was facing widespread devastation caused by torrential rains, severe flooding and earth slips triggered by the cyclonic impact of Cyclone Ditwa. Almost the entire nation required urgent humanitarian assistance, particularly in the worst affected areas.
The team carried out extensive rescue and relief operations, utilising 11 rescue vehicles, two boats, 3,636 ration packs, 300 tents and other essential relief supplies, in Gampola, Mawathura, Rajathalawa, Ankumbara and Rambuke-Ela in the Central Province. Their efforts were instrumental in rescuing victims, supporting local relief teams and providing critical equipment and humanitarian assistance during a period of national emergency.
Throughout their stay, the UAE Disaster Rescue Team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication and compassion, working closely with Sri Lankan authorities to assist affected communities and mitigate the impact of the disaster.
In recognition of their commendable and devoted service and in accordance with the direction of the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, an appreciation ceremony was conducted to honour the UAE team for their timely assistance during Sri Lanka’s hour of need. As a gesture of gratitude and friendship, tokens of appreciation and certificates were presented to all members of the team by Major General W.M.S.N. Wijekoon ndc AATO, Quarter Master General of the Sri Lanka Army, on behalf of the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, in deep appreciation of the invaluable services rendered by the UAE Disaster Rescue Team during their deployment in Sri Lanka.
