Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Dubai Municipality has announced the deployment of an advanced beach safety system that integrates aquatic rescue robots with aerial water-rescue drones, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a global leader in smart coastal safety technologies.
The initiative, a first in the region, marks a shift toward AI-powered solutions aimed at enhancing visitor safety, improving emergency response times, and elevating the overall beach experience throughout the year.
At the centre of the system is an advanced aquatic rescue robot; the first of its kind in the Middle East. The remotely operated, self-propelled device is designed to reach swimmers in distress up to five times faster than a conventional lifeguard. It can operate at distances of up to one kilometre from the shoreline and tow loads of up to 500 kilograms, enabling lifeguards to intervene more quickly while minimising physical risk in difficult sea conditions.
The system is further enhanced by specialised water-rescue drones, sometimes referred to as “flying lifebuoys.” Designed for rapid deployment, the drones can reach an incident within seconds, land directly on the water’s surface, and provide flotation support to swimmers in distress until lifeguards arrive. Equipped with live-stream cameras, the devices transmit real-time visuals to rescue teams, enabling quicker detection of emergencies, more accurate assessment of risks, and more coordinated rescue operations.
