UAE Emergency Numbers: Complete Guide to Helpline List

UAE Emergency Numbers. Emergencies never send a warning. A fire can start in seconds, a car accident can happen in a blink and a medical crisis can strike without notice. In moments like these, knowing the right number to call can save a life. The UAE has built one of the most organized emergency response systems in the world, with dedicated numbers for police, ambulance, fire, marine rescue, utility failures and even mental health support.

This guide brings together every important emergency and helpline number in the UAE from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Sharjah and the other emirates in one simple, easy-to-follow place.

What Is an Emergency Helpline Number?

An emergency helpline number is a short phone number that connects a caller directly to local emergency services. These numbers are usually just three digits long, which makes them easy to remember and quick to dial during a crisis. Every country has its own set of emergency numbers and the UAE is no different.

These numbers matter because they give people a fast and reliable way to ask for help. Whether it is a fire, a road accident, a medical emergency or a crime, dialing the right number connects you to trained professionals who know exactly how to respond.

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Why Every Resident and Tourist Should Save These Numbers

The UAE is home to millions of residents and welcomes even more tourists every year. With such a large and diverse population, having a strong emergency system in place is essential. Reporting an incident quickly, whether it is a fire, an accident, or a crime, helps the authorities respond faster and reduces the risk of harm.

Being aware of these helpline numbers is not just useful for emergencies. Many of them also help with everyday issues such as power cuts, water leaks, or even lost items while traveling. Saving these numbers now means you won’t be searching for them in a panic later.

Main Emergency Numbers Across the UAE

No matter which emirate you are in, these core numbers work everywhere in the country. This is the first list every resident and visitor should memorize.

Dubai Emergency Numbers

Dubai has one of the most advanced emergency response networks in the region. Here are the key numbers every resident and visitor in Dubai should know.

The DCAS SOS Feature

The Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS) app has a special SOS (signal of distress) feature. This feature can pinpoint the exact location of a patient, making it much easier for help to reach them fast. The app is free to download on both Google Play and the App Store, and the same SOS service is also built into the Dubai Police App.

Other Important Dubai Helplines

Besides the main emergency numbers, Dubai also has several dedicated helplines for specific situations:

If you ever witness an emergency, try to stay calm and follow the instructions given by the responding paramedics or officers. You can also lend a helping hand to anyone in need, based on what you know and what you are able to do safely.

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Abu Dhabi Emergency Numbers

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, also has its own set of well-organized emergency services.

Help for People of Determination

People of determination in Abu Dhabi can send an SMS to 5999 to report accidents or any situation that threatens security and public order. This service allows people who may find it hard to make a phone call to still reach out for help quickly.

Women and Children Protection Services

Protecting women and children is a top priority in the UAE, and several dedicated hotlines exist for this purpose.

Ministry of Interior Child Protection Centre

This centre works around the clock to protect children from abuse and neglect. Its hotline, 116111, is completely free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to receive reports.

Ewa’a Shelter for Women and Children

Ewa’a offers a safe and temporary shelter for women and children who are victims of human trafficking or sexual abuse. The shelter also provides medical, psychological, and social support. You can reach them on 800 7283 for more information on how to access their services.

Other Protection Helplines

Reporting Abuse of Children of Determination

In Abu Dhabi, abuse against children of determination can be reported to the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination. You can email them at [email protected] or reach their hotline and WhatsApp number at 054-2003366.

Reporting Missing Persons

If someone goes missing, call 999, the Abu Dhabi Police hotline and share as much detail as possible. This includes a full physical description and information about the circumstances in which the person was last seen.

If the missing person was last seen near water, call the Coast Guard emergency number 996 so a search and rescue operation can begin right away.

Work Accidents: What Employers Must Do

If a worker is injured or dies at the workplace, or is absent for three or more days due to a work-related injury, the law requires the employer to report it to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation within 24 hours.

Employers must contact the ministry by:

• Calling: 600590000
• Emailing [email protected]
• Using the Salama app (available on iTunes and Google Play)

When reporting, employers must include the following details:

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1. Name of the worker
2. Labour card number
3. Property number
4. Date of the injury
5. Phone number of the responsible contact person

Reporting a Death

When a natural death occurs in Abu Dhabi, or when a UAE national passes away outside the emirate, hospitals must directly contact one of the morgues in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, or the Al Dhafra region.

If the death is unnatural or happens outside a hospital, call 999 immediately.

How to Handle Emergencies

Knowing what to do in the first few minutes of an emergency can make a huge difference. Below are simple, practical steps for the most common emergency situations. Always make sure you and the people around you are safe before offering any help.

Medical Emergencies

1. If the emergency is indoors, clear the path to the injured person. Move furniture, unlock doors, and have someone ready to guide the ambulance team. Keep the elevator ready and turn on outside lights if it is nighttime.
2. Do not move the patient unless their life is in danger from something like fire, falling debris, or electricity. If you must move an unconscious person, stabilize the neck and back first, then call for help immediately.
3. Check if the person is conscious. Never try to give liquids to someone who is unconscious.
4. Check if the person is breathing. If not, position them for artificial respiration, clear the airway, and begin CPR if you are trained to do so.
5. If there is bleeding, wash your hands before and after helping to prevent infection. Lay the person down to reduce the risk of fainting, and press a sterile bandage or clean cloth on the wound until the bleeding stops.

Fire Emergencies

1. Pull the nearest fire alarm right away.
2. Call the fire service at 997.
3. Stay calm and give clear information about your location.
4. Never jump from a high floor to escape.
5. If there is smoke, stay low to the ground and crawl toward the nearest exit.
6. Use the stairs to evacuate — never use the elevator during a fire.
7. Do not go back inside the building to collect belongings.
8. Close doors behind you as you leave to help slow the spread of fire.
9. Only return once the police or civil defence team confirms it is safe.

Car Accidents

1. Call the police at 999.
2. Call the ambulance at 998 if anyone is injured.
3. Clearly tell the operator your location and whether medical help is needed.
4. Give accurate details so help arrives quickly.
5. If the accident is minor, move the vehicle out of the way of traffic.
6. If someone is accidentally locked inside a car, call the police at 999.
7. For a car breakdown, call roadside assistance at 800 72233.

Marine Accidents

1. Call the Coast Guard at 996.
2. If someone falls overboard, stop the boat’s engines and move as close as safely possible.
3. Throw a life raft or rescue rope to the person in the water.
4. Send a distress signal using the VHF radio if available.

Traffic Accidents and Roadside Assistance

The UAE has a large network of roads and heavy daily traffic, so knowing how to respond to accidents matters. For any serious accident, always call 999. If your vehicle breaks down or needs roadside help, dial 800 4430.

If the accident is minor and no one is hurt, you can move your vehicle to the side to avoid blocking traffic. If anyone is injured, leave the vehicles exactly where they are and wait for the ambulance.

Utility Failures: Electricity and Water

A sudden power cut or water leak can disrupt daily life quickly. Each emirate has its own authority handling these issues.

You can also reach DEWA’s round-the-clock contact centre at +971-4-601-9999 or email them anytime at [email protected]. Etihad Water and Electricity customers can also report issues through the Etihad WE app, available on the App Store and Google Play.

Telecommunication Helplines

If your mobile network, landline, or internet stops working, the UAE’s two major telecom providers have dedicated support lines.

Before calling, try restarting your device or router, as this often solves the problem. Keep your account details ready, since the support agent will likely ask for them.

Crime, Safety and Security Reporting

To report a crime anywhere in the UAE, call 999. Beyond this main number, each emirate also offers its own dedicated safety channels.

Cybercrime cases can be reported through the official online reporting channels.

Reporting Human Trafficking

Reporting Human Rights Issues

You can reach the Community Development Authority (CDA) on 8002121 or email [email protected] for human rights concerns.

Animal Rescue and Abuse Reporting

The UAE takes animal welfare seriously. If you spot an animal that is injured, trapped, or in a dangerous situation, or if you want to report abuse, here is where to turn.

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When calling, describe the animal’s condition and exact location clearly. Avoid approaching an injured or wild animal yourself, and always follow the advice of the professionals on the call.

Consumer Rights and Food Safety

If you run into a problem as a consumer, such as unfair pricing or a faulty product, these helplines can help.

For drone-related accidents or a drone that has gone out of control, contact the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) at +971506414667.

Natural Calamities and the National Early Warning System

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) is the government body responsible for keeping everyone safe during natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods, sandstorms, and heavy fog.

The National Early Warning System (EWS), launched in 2017, sends text messages to residents warning them about dangerous weather and telling them what steps to take to stay safe. Only authorized bodies can send these alerts, including:

• National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority
• Ministry of Interior
• Police forces of all seven emirates
• Ministry of Health and Prevention

Mental Health and Well-Being Helplines

Mental health matters just as much as physical health. If you or someone you know is struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression, these confidential helplines connect you with trained professionals.

There is no shame in reaching out for support. Trained counsellors are ready to listen and guide you through difficult moments.

Tourist Helplines and Support

Millions of tourists visit the UAE every year, and the government has set up dedicated helplines to make their trip smoother and safer.

It is always smart to keep digital and physical copies of your passport and visa while traveling, just in case something gets lost.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Helplines

For any COVID-19-related concerns, health information, or services, you can reach out to:

Istijaba Emergency Call Centre (Abu Dhabi)

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi runs a special call centre called Istijaba for urgent requests from patients already admitted to healthcare facilities in the emirate. This includes urgent medical checkups, critical care beds, rare specialists, and urgent blood type requirements.

Patients can reach Istijaba on the toll-free number 8001717, which connects directly to the Medical Operations Command Centre.

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Emergency Helper Apps to Download Today

Beyond phone numbers, the UAE also offers smart apps that make emergency reporting even easier.

DCAS App

The Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services app allows anyone to send an SOS request. It is especially helpful for people of determination, including those with visual or hearing impairments. The app also offers free training through videos, illustrations, and text guides.

My Safe Society

Created by the UAE Public Prosecution, this app lets the public report crimes and suspicious activity, including anything that could disrupt public order or national security. Users can attach photos, videos, audio clips, and links as evidence, and the app allows for anonymous and confidential reporting.

Volunteering and Emergency Training Programs

If you want to actively help during emergencies, the UAE offers structured training programs for volunteers.

Sanid – National Emergency Response Volunteer Programme

Sanid trains volunteers to manage emergencies as part of the Emergency Volunteer Readiness Corps. Participants receive a certificate and take part in regular training sessions. You can reach the program at 800 8252863 or email: [email protected].

Emirates World Humanitarian Mobile Hospital (Elaaj)

Elaaj trains volunteers from both government and private sectors to assist in rescue efforts during emergencies and disasters. To learn more, contact the Zayed Giving Initiative at +971 2 635 9866 or email: [email protected].

Emergency Help While Abroad

If a UAE national faces an emergency while traveling outside the country, they can contact the nearest UAE embassy or consulate, or reach the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation directly at 0097180024.

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FAQs About UAE Emergency Number

What is the main police emergency number in the UAE?

Ans: The main police emergency number across the entire UAE is 999. You can dial this from any emirate for immediate police assistance.

Which number should I call for an ambulance in the UAE?

Ans: For any medical emergency, call 998. This connects you to the ambulance service, which will dispatch help based on your location and situation.

What number do I dial for a fire emergency?

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Ans: Call 997 for the fire department, also known as Civil Defence. Evacuate the building immediately and avoid using elevators.

Is there a separate number for marine or boat emergencies?

Ans: Yes. For any marine emergency, including accidents at sea or someone falling overboard, call the Coast Guard at 996.

What should I do if my electricity or water supply fails?

Ans: Call 991 for electricity issues and 992 for water issues if you are in Dubai, Sharjah, or most other emirates. In Abu Dhabi, call the ADDC helpline at 800 2332.

How can I report child abuse or a threat to a child’s safety?

Ans: You can call the Ministry of Interior’s Child Protection Centre hotline at 116111. This service is free and available 24 hours a day.

Are these emergency numbers free to call?

Ans: Yes, all emergency numbers listed in this guide, including 999, 998, 997, and 996, are completely free to call from any phone in the UAE.

What should tourists do if they lose their belongings?

Ans: Tourists can call the Lost and Found Services helpline at 800 4567 for help locating lost items in public places, hotels, or transport.

Is there a helpline for mental health support in the UAE?

Ans: Yes. You can call 800 4673 for emotional and mental health support, or 800 111 for help with stress and well-being.

Can I report an emergency using an app instead of calling?

Ans: Yes. The DCAS app lets you send an SOS with your exact location, and the My Safe Society app allows you to report crimes and suspicious activity with photo, video, or audio evidence.

Conclusion

Emergencies can happen to anyone, at any time, in any place. The UAE has built a strong and reliable network of emergency numbers and services to make sure help is always just a phone call away. Save these numbers in your phone today, share them with your family, and make sure everyone in your household knows exactly who to call when it matters most. Being prepared today can make all the difference tomorrow.

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About The Author

Sheikha Maryam Al Mansoori

Sheikha Maryam Al Mansoori lives in Sharjah and writes easy, step-by-step guides about life in the UAE. She explains visas, Emirates ID, metro and bus travel, banking, jobs and property in clear, simple words anyone can follow.