Meet UAE expat who rescued 8 people from fire, became wheelchair-bound

UAE expat

Imen Sfaxi, a Tunisian expatriate residing in Abu Dhabi, exemplified unparalleled bravery and selflessness when she rushed to aid individuals trapped in a devastating fire that consumed a residential building in the Khalidiya area back in 2022. In a remarkable display of heroism, Sfaxi disregarded her own safety and fearlessly dove into action, utilizing her first aid expertise and quick thinking to rescue a staggering eight people from the inferno. However, her courageous efforts came at a profound cost, as a second explosion occurred while she was providing aid, resulting in severe injuries that ultimately left her wheelchair-bound.

In recognition of her extraordinary bravery and unwavering commitment to saving lives, Imen Sfaxi was recently honored with the prestigious Abu Dhabi Award, personally presented to her by President Sheikh Mohamed. This distinguished accolade serves as a testament to Sfaxi's remarkable courage and selflessness in the face of adversity, solidifying her status as a true hero within the community.

The harrowing events unfolded on May 23, 2022, when a raging fire, sparked by a pipeline explosion, engulfed a residential building, causing widespread devastation and panic among its occupants. Despite being advised to remain at home for her own safety, Sfaxi instinctively responded to the crisis with unparalleled resolve and determination. Witnessing the desperate plight of those trapped within the burning inferno, she wasted no time in springing into action, bravely venturing into the heart of danger to offer aid and assistance to those in need.

Sfaxi's husband, Sami Messaoudi, expressed his profound admiration for her courageous actions, recalling how he implored her to stay home, only to witness her resolute determination to help others in their time of need. He described her decision to intervene as a divine calling, driven by an innate sense of duty and compassion towards her fellow human beings.

Dr. Saif Juma Al Dhaheri, a spokesperson for The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), lauded Sfaxi's quick thinking and selflessness, emphasizing the pivotal role she played in mitigating the impact of the tragedy and saving precious lives. He hailed her as a shining example of courage and compassion, whose actions embodied the very essence of heroism in the face of adversity.

In the aftermath of the catastrophic incident, Imen Sfaxi's friends and loved ones rallied around her, offering unwavering support and encouragement as she embarked on the challenging journey of recovery. Despite facing immense physical and emotional challenges as a result of her injuries, Sfaxi remained resolute in her conviction, expressing no regret for her actions and steadfastly maintaining her commitment to helping others in need.

The recent presentation of the Abu Dhabi Award marked a poignant moment of recognition for Sfaxi's extraordinary bravery and selflessness, underscoring the profound impact of her actions on the community at large. Alongside seven other deserving individuals, she was honored for her invaluable contributions to society across various fields, including education, sustainability, medicine, humanitarian relief, community awareness, and the empowerment of People of Determination.

As Imen Sfaxi continues to navigate the complexities of life in a wheelchair, her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to serving others serve as a powerful inspiration to all who have had the privilege of witnessing her remarkable journey. Her legacy as a true hero and beacon of hope will endure for generations to come, reminding us all of the transformative power of courage, compassion, and selflessness in the face of adversity.