Dubai Municipality has introduced an advanced AI-enabled beach safety system that integrates aquatic rescue robots and aerial water-rescue drones, marking a regional first in smart coastal safety.
The initiative reflects Dubai’s shift toward proactive, technology-driven safety solutions designed to improve protection, accelerate emergency response times, and enhance the beach experience for residents and visitors.
Dubai Municipality manages all public beaches and canals across the emirate, including Umm Suqeim 1 Night Beach, Jumeirah 3 Night Beach, Jumeirah 1 Beach, Jumeirah 2 Beach, and Al Mamzar beaches. These locations are supported by trained lifeguards, advanced rescue technologies, and continuous monitoring systems.
At the centre of the new safety system is an aquatic rescue robot—the first of its kind in the Middle East. The remote-controlled device can move at speeds up to five times faster than traditional lifeguard swimming rescues, operate within a one-kilometre line-of-sight range, and tow up to 500 kilograms.
Designed to function in challenging sea conditions, the robot enables lifeguards to reach swimmers in distress more quickly while reducing the physical risks associated with initial rescue operations.
The system also incorporates water rescue drones that provide aerial support and improve situational awareness during emergencies. Often described as a “flying lifebuoy,” the drone can quickly reach individuals in distress, land directly on the water surface, and provide immediate flotation support.
Equipped with live-feed cameras, the drones transmit real-time visuals to lifeguard teams, enabling faster incident detection, improved risk assessment, and more coordinated rescue operations.
According to Bader Anwahi, Chief Executive Officer of the Public Facilities Agency, the integration of aquatic rescue robots and water rescue drones represents a significant advancement in coastal safety management, combining speed, intelligence, and operational precision.
