In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a robust emergency response system is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents and visitors. The UAE has established a set of emergency numbers that can be easily remembered and dialed in times of crisis. These numbers connect callers to various emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire departments. Understanding and memorizing these numbers is crucial for anyone living in or visiting the UAE.
Main Emergency Numbers
The UAE has three primary emergency numbers that cover the most critical situations:
- 999 – Police Emergency
This is the main emergency number for contacting the police in the UAE. It should be used for any situation requiring immediate police assistance, such as reporting a crime, accidents, or any threat to public safety. - 998 – Ambulance
For medical emergencies requiring an ambulance, 998 is the number to call. This service is equipped to handle various medical situations and provide rapid response. - 997 – Civil Defence (Fire Department)
In case of fires or situations requiring rescue operations, 997 is the number to contact the Civil Defence.
It’s important to note that these emergency numbers are operational 24/7 and are toll-free. Callers can expect to reach trained operators who can coordinate the appropriate emergency response.
Police Emergency Services
The UAE police force plays a pivotal role in maintaining public safety and order. In emergency situations, they are often the first point of contact for the public.
Emergency Police Number: 999
The primary emergency number for police services in the UAE is 999. This number should be used for reporting:
- Crimes in progress
- Traffic accidents
- Public disturbances
- Any situation requiring immediate police intervention
When calling 999, it’s essential to remain calm and provide clear information about your location, the nature of the emergency, and any relevant details that could assist the responding officers.
Specialized Police Services
Tourist Police
For tourists facing issues such as theft, lost items, or disputes, the UAE offers a dedicated Tourist Police service. The Tourist Police hotline can be reached at 800-4888.
Traffic Police
For traffic-related emergencies, you can dial *999 from a mobile phone to reach the traffic police directly.
Police Services in Various Emirates
While 999 is the universal emergency number across the UAE, each emirate also maintains its local police force. These local forces coordinate closely with national services to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Medical Emergency Services
The UAE boasts a well-developed healthcare infrastructure, including state-of-the-art public and private hospitals and efficient emergency response units.
Emergency Medical Number: 998
For medical emergencies requiring an ambulance, dial 998. When calling, be prepared to provide:
- The patient’s exact location
- Nature of the medical emergency
- Patient’s condition and any visible symptoms
This number handles a wide range of emergencies, including heart attacks, strokes, accidents, poisoning, and childbirth complications.
Advanced Medical Services
Air Ambulance Services
The UAE offers air ambulance services for critical situations, particularly in remote areas or for cases requiring rapid transport to specialized facilities.
Specialized Medical Units
The country is equipped with specialized units for neonatal care, burn treatment, trauma care, and cardiac emergencies.
Common Medical Emergencies in the UAE
Given the UAE’s climate and lifestyle, some common medical emergencies include:
- Heatstroke and dehydration
- Road accidents and trauma-related injuries
- Cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes
Fire Emergency Services
The UAE maintains rigorous safety standards and building regulations to prevent fires. However, when fires do occur, a well-organized fire department is ready to respond.
Emergency Fire Number: 997
To report fires or hazardous situations like gas leaks or smoke, dial 997. Before the fire brigade arrives:
- Evacuate the building immediately
- Check for any trapped individuals, if safe to do so
- Close doors to contain the fire
Firefighting Resources
The UAE fire departments are equipped with advanced firefighting techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. Fire stations are strategically located across the emirates to ensure rapid response times.
Other Fire Safety Numbers
- For gas leaks: 800-900 (Emirates Gas hotline)
- For electrical hazards: Contact your local electricity service provider or dial 999
Civil Defense Emergency Services
Role of Civil Defense
The UAE Civil Defense plays a crucial role in managing natural disasters, hazardous materials incidents, search and rescue operations, and other large-scale emergencies.
Civil Defense Emergency Number: 992
Call 992 for:
- Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes)
- Hazardous materials incidents
- Search and rescue operations
- Structural collapses
Civil Defense Services
The Civil Defense also conducts:
- Emergency evacuations
- Disaster management
- Safety awareness programs
Utility Emergency Services
Electricity Emergency: 991
For power outages, electrical hazards, or faulty wires, dial 991. During an electrical emergency:
- Stay away from downed power lines
- Turn off electrical appliances if safe to do so
- Use flashlights instead of candles for light
Water Supply Emergency: 800-555
Contact this number for water supply interruptions, sewage issues, or pipe bursts.
Gas Leak Emergency: 800-900
If you suspect a gas leak:
- Evacuate the area immediately
- Avoid using any electrical switches or open flames
- Call 800-900 from a safe location
Telecommunications Emergency: 999
For interruptions or emergencies related to telecommunication services, dial 999.
Road and Traffic Emergency Services
Traffic Accident Emergency: 999
In case of road accidents, call 999 immediately. Be prepared to provide:
- Exact location of the accident
- Number of vehicles involved
- Any injuries or trapped individuals
Other Useful Traffic Services
- Breakdown Assistance: 800-2211 (Roads and Transport Authority hotline)
- Towing Services: 800-4353
Common Traffic Emergencies
The UAE experiences various traffic-related emergencies, including:
- Multi-vehicle collisions
- Pedestrian accidents
- Hazardous driving conditions due to sandstorms or poor visibility
Other Important Emergency Numbers
Tourist Police: 800-4888
This service is tailored for tourists and expatriates who may need assistance with issues related to tourism, theft, or lost documents.
Mental Health Emergency: 800-555
For psychological crises, including domestic violence, suicide prevention, and emotional distress, call 800-555 for immediate support.
Additional Emergency Services
Beyond the main emergency numbers, the UAE has established several other helplines for specific situations:
- 8002626 – Aman Service
This is a dedicated line for reporting information related to security threats or suspicious activities. It’s part of the UAE’s efforts to maintain a secure and stable society. - 8003333 – General Inquiries
For non-emergency police-related inquiries or general information, residents can call this number. - 996 – Coast Guard
For emergencies at sea or along the coastline, the Coast Guard can be reached at this number. - 901 – Dubai Police (Non-Emergency)
In Dubai, this number is used for non-emergency police services and inquiries. - 800342 – Child Protection Center
This helpline is dedicated to reporting cases of child abuse or neglect.
Emergency Response System
The UAE’s emergency response system is designed to be efficient and effective. When a call is made to any of the emergency numbers, it is routed to the nearest control room. The Abu Dhabi Police Central Operations, for instance, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly trained personnel.
Features of the Emergency Response System:
- 24/7 Availability: Emergency services are available round-the-clock, including during public holidays and special occasions like Eid.
- Multilingual Support: Many emergency operators are trained to handle calls in multiple languages, catering to the UAE’s diverse population.
- Rapid Response: The system is designed to coordinate with various authorities to ensure quick response times to emergencies.
- Advanced Technology: The operations rooms are equipped with the latest technology to efficiently handle and dispatch emergency calls.
- Geo-location Services: Many emergency services can now track the location of callers using mobile phone signals, improving response accuracy.
Importance of Proper Use of Emergency Numbers
While the UAE has a robust emergency response system, it’s crucial for residents and visitors to use these numbers responsibly:
- Use for Genuine Emergencies: These numbers should only be used for real emergencies. Misuse can lead to delays in responding to actual crises and may be punishable by law.
- Stay Calm and Clear: When calling emergency services, it’s important to remain calm and provide clear, concise information about the situation and location.
- Know Your Location: Being able to describe your location accurately can significantly improve response times.
- Follow Instructions: Emergency operators are trained to provide instructions. Following their guidance can be crucial in managing the situation until help arrives.
- Teach Children: It’s important to educate children about these emergency numbers and when to use them.
Emergency Services for Specific Groups
The UAE has also developed specialized emergency services for specific groups:
- Women and Children: There are dedicated helplines and services for women and children facing abuse or in need of protection.
- People of Determination: Special provisions and training are in place to assist people with disabilities during emergencies.
- Elderly Care: Emergency services are equipped to handle the unique needs of elderly residents during crises.
- Mental Health Emergencies: There are specialized hotlines and services for mental health crises.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is renowned for its advanced infrastructure and unwavering commitment to public safety. For both residents and visitors, understanding the emergency services system is crucial. The UAE’s emergency services are designed to provide swift and efficient responses to various crises, operating 24/7 and offering support in multiple languages to cater to the diverse population.
Having emergency numbers readily available is vital, especially for travelers and expatriates. These numbers serve as lifelines during critical situations, facilitating quick access to help when it’s needed most. Whether you’re facing a medical emergency, witnessing a crime, or dealing with a fire, knowing the right number to call can make a significant difference in the outcome.
It’s advisable to keep the contact information of local veterinary clinics handy for pet-related emergencies.
Conclusion
Understanding and remembering these emergency numbers is crucial for anyone living in or visiting the UAE. By familiarizing yourself with these services and knowing when to use them, you can ensure a quicker response in times of crisis. Always keep your phone charged and easily accessible, and don’t hesitate to call for help when needed. The UAE’s emergency services are designed to provide efficient and professional assistance, regardless of the nature of the emergency.
Remember, in any emergency situation, staying calm and providing clear, concise information can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of the response. By being prepared and informed, you contribute to the overall safety and well-being of yourself and those around you in the UAE.
