It was like ‘something out of a film,’ say visitors astonished by the display It was an event over-stimulating the senses with explosions of colour, gunfire, flying fighters and inspiring soldiers

Thousands of spectators flooded to Al Ain International Airport yesterday to watch one of the largest parades of military strength in the UAE.

The third Union Fortress comprised almost an hour of over-stimulation of the senses as explosions boomed, guns fired, flares plumed and cars blazed on fire.

Visitors were treated to an intensity of action that is ordinarily reserved for films. Ground, marine and air force units, as well as members of the Presidential Guard, carried out several missions to demonstrate how they would manage and overcome an emergency situation.

Attended by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain region, and many other senior government and military officials, the show also demonstrated the strength of a co-operated effort between each of the units.

Sheikha Al Jabari, 15, was particularly impressed.

“I was astonished by the performance, especially the fighter jets. I loved the planes show,” she said of the UAE flag painted across the sky.

Sheikha’s father was one of the organisers and the patriotic display only strengthened her resolve to represent her country positively in future.

“I want to study hard and do some accomplishments for our country. I’m planning to study space and astronomy,” she said.

Hani Mohammed, 32, travelled from Dubai to see the show.

“I couldn’t believe what I saw. It was something out of a movie,” said the Egyptian expatriate, who has lived in the UAE his entire life.

“The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world. It’s great to see their military abilities as it installs a sense of pride and safety.

“When I hear the UAE national anthem, my heart beats and I feel a sense of belonging.”

On sheer excitement alone, the event appeared to be a success.

Each military exercise was book ended with cheers from the crowds as soldiers showed off their skills.

Many visitors brought their children who wore military-style uniforms and carried the country’s flag as their parents shouted over the sounds of explosions to explain the objectives.

Abdullah Al Ketbi, 7, and his friends all wore military uniforms to watch the display. “I want to become like them when I grow up,” said the Emirati boy about the Armed Forces.

“I’ve only seen something like this in cartoons and movies. I couldn’t believe what I saw when two men dropped out of the sky holding UAE flag. I would love to do that for my country,” he said.

Abdullah was not the only child inspired.

Alya Hamad, 6, said that she also planned to join the military.

“It is very important to witness the sacrifices of our soldiers. We should all be able to give our country the greatest sacrifice,” the Emirati said.

“The whole show was perfect and it showed that our soldiers are trained well.”