His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, has instructed the Dubai Civil Defense Authority to strive for global excellence. Furthermore, he has tasked the Executive Council of Dubai with overseeing practical steps to achieve this strategic goal in cooperation with the Civil Defense Authority of Dubai.
His Highness emphasized that the leadership prioritizes the security of the community and the safety of its citizens and facilities, mobilizing all necessary resources to ensure optimal safety standards that align with the best international practices.
This statement came during Sheikh Hamdan’s visit to the headquarters of the Dubai Civil Defense Authority, where he was welcomed by Major General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, the General Commander of Dubai Civil Defense, along with several senior officers and department directors.
During the visit, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed the strategic framework of the Civil Defense Authority and its goals for sustainable safety for lives and properties by 2033.
The aim is to reinforce Dubai’s leadership and excellence in civil defense services globally, ensuring a sustainable future that fosters a sense of safety among community members through the utilization of smart sensors to analyze behavioral patterns, thereby enhancing proactive capabilities in Civil Defense.
Sheikh Hamdan expressed appreciation for the role of civil defense in Dubai and the valuable services it provides to ensure community safety. He noted that “the role of civil defense goes beyond responding to emergencies; it also contributes to building an integrated system that reflects our leadership’s vision for a more sustainable future. Civil defense is crucial in raising awareness and fostering a culture of safety, establishing prevention as a strategic choice and a fundamental pillar of development.”
He also stated, “Civil defense personnel have demonstrated high efficiency and exceptional readiness, contributing to making Dubai one of the safest cities in the world and affirming its leading position in quality of life… What we observed was an integration of advanced systems, innovative technical solutions, and qualified human resources, all contributing to a progressive model of institutional work based on innovation and adherence to the highest international standards in safety and protection.”
He added, “We are committed to continually investing in the capabilities of civil defense in Dubai, enhancing its potential to always meet the trust that the community places in it… It remains a global model for rapid response, innovative solutions, and protection of lives… Community safety and safeguarding its resources have always been and will continue to be a core value and primary goal that we spare no effort in achieving.”
During the visit, several global initiatives by the Dubai Civil Defense Authority were discussed, including the “Billion Prepared” initiative aimed at training and raising awareness among one billion individuals worldwide about the risks and causes of fires and preventive measures.
Discussions also covered the “Convoys of Hope” initiative, aimed at supporting firefighting sectors in less developed countries by contributing to the establishment of modern firefighting centers, as well as providing advanced firefighting and rescue equipment and necessary safety gear.
Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan met with the artificial intelligence programming team within the civil defense and received a briefing on how they are leveraging AI tools and the latest innovations in firefighting and rescue operations.
This included a presentation of the “Explorer Robot,” an advanced robot equipped with high mobility capabilities, featuring a “Lidar” sensor for vision in smoke and crafting accurate three-dimensional maps of buildings during incidents.
Advanced Equipment
The presentation also showcased a sophisticated robotic arm that enhances the efficiency of firefighters by up to 40%, particularly during rescue and firefighting operations using ladders. Alongside this was the “Wabel 4500-Firefighting Robot,” designed specifically for firefighting and rescue operations, capable of carrying loads up to 400 kilograms.
Also highlighted was the “Shaheen” drone used in firefighting operations for tall buildings and towers, showcasing a commitment to leveraging the best and most effective solutions for efficiently managing various challenges regardless of their complexity.
In conclusion, commemorative photos were taken of His Highness, the Crown Prince of Dubai, during his visit with the leaders of the Dubai Civil Defense and his team.
Major General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi expressed profound gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, highlighting the continuous support and encouragement he provides to all sectors to maintain the highest levels of professional readiness and resilience, ensuring that Dubai remains the best city globally in ensuring the safety of lives and properties.