The United Arab Emirates military has officially identified two categories of citizens who are exempt from mandatory military service, according to information published on the official government website. The exemptions apply exclusively to UAE nationals, as only citizens of the country are eligible to enlist in the armed forces in the first place.
Two Groups Exempt from UAE Military Service
According to the official website, the two categories of individuals who may be excused from mandatory military service are the sole son of a family and medically unfit citizens. The official statement on the website reads: "The sole son of a family and medically unfit citizens can be exempt from military service."
The first exemption recognises situations where a citizen is the only male child in his family, acknowledging the social and familial responsibilities that come with that position. The second exemption covers citizens who are determined to be medically unfit, meaning those whose physical or health conditions prevent them from meeting the requirements of active military service.
Who Qualifies for the Exemption
It is important to note that these exemptions apply exclusively to UAE nationals. Non-citizens and expatriates living in the country are not eligible to join the UAE military regardless of circumstances, meaning the exemption provisions do not apply to them in any way.
The UAE military's official website confirms that only citizens of the United Arab Emirates are eligible to join the country's armed forces. The website details the exact conditions under which a citizen can be excused from serving.
Context and Related Developments
Meanwhile, Legit.ng recently reported that the United Kingdom has published the yearly salaries of its Army personnel by rank. The figures show the pay received by recruits, privates, lance corporals, corporals and sergeants in the UK Army.
The UAE's exemption policy is part of the country's broader national service framework, which requires eligible citizens to complete military training. The two categories identified provide clear guidelines for citizens who may have special circumstances that prevent them from serving.



