Dubai’s dedicated coastal rescuers pound a very wet beat round the clock

It is a busy life for the officers of the Dubai Police maritime rescue department, whose stations have responded to 31 accidents so far this year, including two deaths and six injuries.

The stations – three in Jumeirah, two in Deira and a bicycle patrol in Jumeirah Beach Residence – have boats, cars and Jet Skis, along with boat driver and assistant, four divers and a paramedic, as well as a few cots for the odd nap to keep rescuers sharp and focused.

“We have to remain fit, therefore for all members of the rescue teams before our daily breakfast is a 500-metre swim, immediately followed by a 1,500-metre run in no more than 24 minutes,” says Maj Ali Al Naqbi, the head of the department.

Common accidents include drowning and boat collisions, but the department’s responsibilities are not restricted to saving lives. They patrol ports and beaches, place warning flags in case of rough sea conditions and accompany delegations.

Unlike those from other agencies such as Dubai Municipality, maritime rescue department workers are on hand around the clock and go into the deep sea.

“We go as far as we have to save lives, and we thank God that our skills and up-to-date equipment have helped to increase the number of successful missions,” Maj Al Naqbi said.

Their equipment includes satellite technology, used to locate vessels too far out for the Jet Ski to reach before a patrol boat is sent.

Dubai Police is the only force in the world that has a highspeed X-Cat class rescue boat, which was a gift from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the emirate’s Crown Prince.

This year, the force unveiled the “world’s first” rescue drone, called the Flying Rescuer, which drops lifebuoys into the sea for people who get into trouble.

The teams are also highly trained in advanced first aid, handling hazardous material, advanced diving, handling fuel and gas container accidents, deep diving, underwater navigation, crisis management and responding to cases involving weapons of mass destruction.

Maj Al Naqbi said a maritime rescue patrol of 11 women would take to the seas soon.

We go as far as we have to save lives, and we thank God that our skills and equipment have helped to increase the number of successful missions MAJ ALI AL NAQBI Head of Dubai Police maritime rescue department