Dubai Municipality has announced the deployment of a technology-driven beach safety system that combines aquatic rescue robotics with aerial water-rescue drones.
The initiative reflects a shift towards proactive, AI-enabled safety solutions that enhance protection, response speed, and overall beach experience for residents and visitors throughout the year.
At the centre of this system is the aquatic rescue robot. The remote-controlled, self-propelled rescue device operates at speeds up to 5 times faster than traditional lifeguard swimming rescues, with a range of up to 1km within line of sight and a towing capacity of up to 500kg The robot allows lifeguards to reach swimmers in distress rapidly, while minimising physical risk during the initial rescue phase.
Complementing the system, Dubai Public Beaches has introduced the water rescue drone as an aerial support tool that enhances situational awareness and rescue coordination. Often described as a ‘flying lifebuoy’, the drone can deploy quickly over water, land directly on the sea surface, and provide immediate buoyancy support to individuals in distress.
Equipped with a live-feed camera, the drone delivers real-time visuals to lifeguard teams, enabling faster incident detection, accurate risk assessment, and more effective coordination of rescue operations.
Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality said, “Dubai Municipality continues to advance a proactive, technology-led approach to public safety. The integration of the aquatic rescue robot with the water rescue drone represents a significant step forward in how coastal safety is delivered, combining speed, intelligence, and operational precision. These solutions enhance protection for beach users, while reducing risk to lifeguards, and reflect Dubai’s commitment to applying innovation and artificial intelligence in service of quality of life.”
He added, “Our objective is to ensure that Dubai’s beaches set global benchmarks for safety, readiness, and visitor confidence. By investing in smart rescue technologies and continuously upgrading our safety ecosystem, Dubai Municipality is reinforcing its role in shaping future-ready public spaces that place people, wellbeing, and experience at the centre.”
