Dubai, UAE — The recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon has brought a wave of relief and cautious hope among Lebanese nationals living in the UAE.

For many, the 14-month-long conflict disrupted lives, separated families, and put wedding plans, health concerns, and daily routines on hold. Now, with the truce brokered by the U.S. and France, many are taking tentative steps toward resuming normalcy.

Roy Asmar (name changed on request), a Dubai resident, had postponed his wedding plans due to the ongoing war. Upon hearing of the ceasefire, his emotions ran high.

“Honestly, it felt like God had heard my prayers,” he said. Despite skyrocketing airfare prices, Roy and his fiancée spent Dh11,000 to book tickets back home.

The cost, though steep, has not dampened his joy. “We have always dreamt of a winter wedding in our hometown surrounded by those closest to us. Now, our dream has come true,” Roy shared.

He recounted how plans for a December wedding seemed impossible amidst the conflict, with travel to and from airports deemed too dangerous.

Roy expressed gratitude for the unexpected turn of events. “At one point, it felt like there was no end in sight. But somewhere inside, I felt like there would be a ceasefire during Christmas,” he said.

His faith was rewarded, though he and his fiancée are keeping their plans private for now, hoping to celebrate with friends later.

Displacement and Heartbreak

For others, like Dubai resident Ayoub Merhi, the ceasefire has brought bittersweet relief. “For months, I’ve been glued to social media and news stations, constantly looking for updates,” he said. His family, including his elderly parents, were displaced due to relentless bombings.

The war’s impact on his father’s health has been significant, as frequent hospital visits became increasingly challenging amidst the conflict.

“The longer distances and constant fear have taken a toll on my parents,” Ayoub explained. “I am relieved about the ceasefire but worried it might not hold.”

The conflict has also brought personal loss. “I’ve already lost a few friends who were innocent civilians killed in the bombing,” Ayoub said.

This has heightened his fear for his family’s safety. Despite his relief, work commitments prevent him from traveling home immediately. He plans to visit Lebanon in January to check on his parents and rebuild connections.

A Fragile Peace

The ceasefire, announced on Wednesday, marks a pause in the 14 months of intense fighting, which erupted as an offshoot of the Gaza war.

With Lebanese citizens returning to their homes to begin rebuilding, many express a mix of gratitude and apprehension.

The agreement was brokered under international pressure, with hopes that it will pave the way for lasting peace. However, the road to recovery is long, as displaced families and war-torn communities struggle to regain stability.

For the Lebanese diaspora in the UAE, the ceasefire is a glimmer of hope, albeit tinged with uncertainty.

As they navigate the complexities of rebuilding their lives and reconnecting with loved ones, they remain united in their hope for a peaceful future.