Dubai has introduced a new era of coastal safety with the launch of an advanced rescue system that combines aquatic robots and aerial drones to support lifeguards across the city’s public beaches.
The initiative by Dubai Municipality marks the first deployment of its kind in the Middle East and reflects the emirate’s growing focus on technology-driven public safety.
The system integrates a remote-controlled aquatic rescue robot with an aerial water-rescue drone, creating a coordinated response framework designed to reach swimmers in distress faster and more efficiently.
At the centre of the programme is an aquatic rescue robot capable of travelling up to five times faster than a lifeguard swimming to a victim. The self-propelled device can operate within a one kilometre line of sight and tow up to 500 kilograms, allowing lifeguards to reach individuals in challenging sea conditions while reducing physical risk during the initial rescue stage.
Supporting the robot is a water rescue drone that acts as an aerial first responder. The drone can rapidly deploy over water, land on the sea surface, and provide buoyancy support to swimmers in difficulty. Equipped with a live camera feed, it also sends real-time visuals to lifeguard teams to help detect incidents quickly and coordinate rescue operations more effectively.
Officials say the combined use of air and water-based technology strengthens response capabilities across wide coastal areas and improves safety for residents and visitors.
According to Bader Anwahi, Chief Executive Officer of the Public Facilities Agency, the initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to applying innovation and artificial intelligence to enhance quality of life and public safety.
The system will support lifeguard operations at several public beaches across Dubai, including popular destinations such as Umm Suqeim 1 Night Beach, Jumeirah 3 Night Beach, Jumeirah 1 Beach, Jumeirah 2 Beach and Al Mamzar Beach.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
