On Saturday, government officials in Dubai paid tribute to a firefighter who had died while serving his country, not only offering condolences to the bereaved family, but also calling him a martyr.

As Dubai's Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum tweeted in Arabic: "Dubai will proudly remember Sergeant Omar Khalifa Al Ketbi, who was killed in a fire in Al Awir while fulfilling his call of duty.

Sheikh Hamdan also offered prayers for God’s mercy on Al Ketbi’s soul. He also blessed the grieving family, friends, and colleagues at Dubai Defence.

The First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, also offered condolences to the family of Sergeant Omar Al Ketbi.

In addition to being UAE Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), Sheikh Maktoum said: "Omar will stay alive in Dubai's memory and in the hearts of its citizens.". Loyal men will remain alive for their great deeds.”

Sheikh Maktoum noted that the Civil Defence men and soldiers of the country risk their lives every day to keep the homeland safe and stable.

On Saturday, Al Ketbi's funeral prayer and burial took place at Al Qusais Cemetery, and condolences were offered at Mizhar 1.