The accident has also renewed calls for caution on highways, particularly during late-night travel, underscoring the fragility of life and the profound impact such tragedies have on families and communities alike
A devastating road accident in the early hours of Sunday has claimed the lives of four young Indian siblings and their family’s domestic worker in the United Arab Emirates, leaving the Indian expatriate community in deep shock and mourning. The family, originally from Kerala, was travelling back home after attending the popular Liwa Dates Festival when the tragic incident occurred in the Shahama area along the Abu Dhabi–Dubai motorway, according to reports by The National.
The victims include four brothers—Ashaz (14), Ammar (12), Azam (8), and Ayash (5)—who were travelling with their parents, Abdul Lateef and Ruksana, their 10-year-old sister Izza, and the family’s 48-year-old domestic worker. Three of the boys—Ashaz, Ammar, and Ayash—lost their lives at the scene of the accident. Their brother Azam, who sustained critical injuries, was rushed to Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Hospital but succumbed to his injuries on Monday evening despite medical efforts.
The parents and their daughter Izza survived the crash and are currently undergoing treatment in hospital. Medical teams have described their condition as stable, and they continue to receive care and emotional support following the traumatic loss.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, while support groups remain actively involved in helping the surviving family members cope with their loss
In line with the family’s wishes, the four brothers will be laid to rest in the UAE, a country they had made their home. The body of the domestic worker, who was also killed in the accident, will be repatriated to Kerala, where her family will perform her final rites. Welfare organisations and community groups have stepped in to support both families, assisting with hospital coordination, funeral arrangements, and other urgent needs during this difficult period.
The tragedy has sent waves of grief through the local community and among Indian expatriates across the UAE. Friends, neighbours, and relatives have shared heartfelt messages of condolence, remembering the children for their warmth, innocence, and close bond with one another, as well as the caregiver for her dedication to the family.
