Mandatory Military Service in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates has declared that military service will now be mandatory for males:

The United Arab Emirates on Saturday issued a law making military service compulsory for Emirati men in a move highlighting the Gulf state’s concern over unrest in the region, its states news agency (WAM) reported...

The law applies to all males between the ages of 18 and 30 and in good medical health. Men who have a high school degree or its equivalent will serve nine months, while those who do not have a high school diploma will serve for two years, WAM said.

Participation for women, who can only serve for nine months, is optional and will require the approval of their legal guardians.

Military service will include training periods, military exercises and lectures on patriotism and security, WAM said, citing the law.