ABU DHABI, UAE — The UAE National Guard Command reported on Saturday that it carried out a total of 347 search and rescue operations between January and June 2025.
These missions, conducted both on land and at sea, spanned domestic territories and international waters, underscoring the nation’s commitment to safeguarding lives under all conditions.
According to official statistics from the National Search and Rescue Centre (NSRC), 218 operations were overseen by its teams. Of these, 63 were dedicated search-and-rescue and medical evacuation missions, while 18 involved patient transfers via air ambulance within the country.
An additional 13 medical and air ambulance transfers were conducted abroad, providing critical support to UAE citizens and expatriates in need of urgent care overseas.
Major General Saeed Al Zaabi, Director of the NSRC, said, “Our teams have worked around the clock, leveraging the latest technologies and specialized training to reach those in peril swiftly. These operations reflect our unwavering dedication to preserving life and supporting communities both at home and beyond our borders.”
In parallel, the UAE Coast Guard reported executing 129 search and rescue operations across the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. These maritime missions ranged from responding to distress calls from commercial vessels to rescuing recreational boaters caught in unexpected weather or mechanical failure.
Commander Mariam Al Hashmi, head of Coast Guard operations, highlighted the importance of inter-agency coordination. “Our success relies on seamless communication between naval units, air assets, and the National Guard. By sharing real‑time data and resources, we ensure rapid deployment and enhanced safety for all at sea.”
The report emphasized the critical role of cutting-edge equipment, including night‑vision gear, high‑speed rescue boats, and advanced medical evacuation helicopters.
The Command continues to invest in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and remote sensing technologies to improve situational awareness and reduce response times in challenging environments.
To further bolster public safety, the National Guard Command urged citizens and residents to report any emergencies without delay. Individuals requiring immediate assistance can contact the National Search and Rescue Line at 995, while maritime emergencies should be reported to the Coast Guard Emergency Line at 996.
“The cooperation of the public is vital,” said Major General Al Zaabi. “Timely reporting can mean the difference between life and death. We encourage everyone to save these numbers and remain vigilant for any situations requiring intervention.”
Looking ahead, the UAE National Guard Command plans to expand its international partnerships, offering training and support to allied nations and participating in multinational rescue exercises.
These efforts aim to foster knowledge exchange, enhance operational standards, and strengthen regional resilience against natural disasters and humanitarian crises.
As climate change and maritime traffic continue to pose new challenges, the UAE’s search and rescue framework stands poised to adapt and evolve, maintaining its reputation as one of the world’s most responsive and capable emergency response organizations.