During the military funeral in Abu Dhabi, UAE on March 10, 2026. MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

The UAE held a military funeral on Tuesday (March 10) to honour two armed forces pilots who died in a helicopter crash while performing their national duty. The ceremony was organised by the UAE Ministry of Defence at Zayed Military Hospital in Abu Dhabi. Captain Saeed Rashid Hamad Al Balooshi and First Lieutenant Ali Saleh Ismail Al Tunaiji were accorded full military honours during the ceremony attended by senior defence officials, officers and the families of the fallen pilots. According to the Ministry of Defence, the helicopter crashed on Monday (March 9) due to a technical malfunction while the pilots were carrying out their national duties. The ministry extended its condolences to the families of the two officers, praying for patience and strength during their time of grief. Separate funeral prayers were also held in the pilots’ hometowns. In Ras Al Khaimah, residents gathered to bid farewell to First Lieutenant Al Tunaiji during funeral prayers held after the Dhuhr prayer at Abdullah Ali Ibrahim Al Aamash Mosque. The prayer was led by Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. Sheikh Saud said the sacrifices made by those who defend the country will always be remembered. He said the dedication of the nation’s martyrs will remain “a glorious chapter in the story of loyalty and service to the nation,” adding that their memory will live on in the hearts of the people. Meanwhile, funeral prayers for Captain Al Balooshi were held in Al Ain after the Dhuhr prayer at Al Muatared Al Kabeer Mosque. A voice message sent earlier by First Lieutenant Al Tunaiji before his final mission has also touched many people across the UAE. “The great reward comes from the Lord of the worlds. If it is written that we are to be among the martyrs, then we shall be martyred. And if God grants us life, it is enough for us that you are well, sleeping and at peace,” he said in the message. Messages of sympathy have come from leaders across the region, including Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, also received a call from Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, who expressed condolences and solidarity with the UAE. The deaths come amid heightened tensions in the region following missile and drone attacks targeting the UAE since late February. Officials said the country remains committed to safeguarding its sovereignty and protecting residents while maintaining stability in the region. ICA/Expat Media
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