How UAE's first safety, security association will help prepare residents during emergencies

Do you know how to respond in an emergency during a crisis, war, or fire? A new UAE association is dedicated to raising safety awareness across all segments of society.

The UAE is set to launch its first association dedicated to safety, security, and community service. The Safety and Emergency Security Association, headquartered in Sharjah, will bring national experts with backgrounds in crisis management teams and the Emirates Red Crescent.

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"Safety and security are not limited to environmental disasters. A disaster can take many forms, environmental or health-related; it can also include rumors," said Haitham Mohammed Al Raeesi, the association's Chairman of the Board of Directors.

"Our role is to raise awareness among individuals on how to act in emergencies, whether it's a fire or a personal crisis. As a non-profit organization, our goal is to build an informed community."

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Al Raeesi explained that the association was established to enhance community awareness about safety procedures and emergency preparedness. "There is a growing need for public safety awareness and emergency preparedness, especially as developments happen in the field."

The association will offer training programs, raise community awareness, and serve as a platform for experts and interested individuals to provide solutions and recommendations.

One key initiative is training fresh graduates interested in safety and emergency management. Furthermore, the association is dedicated to ensuring accessibility of safety information to all segments of society by providing comprehensive educational content. Al Raisi noted that the association will work with specialised trainers and implement diverse awareness and educational programs.

The association also aims to communicate with non-Arabic and non-English speakers. "Many residents struggle to access safety information due to language barriers. We will have dedicated trainers who speak their languages, distribute brochures in multiple languages, and collaborate with social media influencers from various communities," Al Raeesi explained.

With his extensive experience as a researcher in crisis and disaster management and his leadership role in the Emirates Red Crescent, Al Raeesi is dedicated to fulfilling the association’s mission and expanding safety awareness across society.

“I am a field leader in Red Crescent, and most of our team has practical experience in crisis response and disaster management,” he noted.

To further enhance its impact, the association invites volunteers from all backgrounds, regardless of their previous knowledge of safety protocols. “We will offer training for those who are eager to contribute to community safety,” Al Raeesi added.

The Ministry of Community Empowerment officially announced the association's establishment last Wednesday, aligning with its mission to strengthen the role of non-profit organisations and enhance community-driven development in the UAE.

Strengthening community bonds

Dr Hind Sahoo AlSuwaidi, a board member, emphasised the importance of volunteering. "We believe in the power of volunteerism. We seek individuals with expertise in safety and emergency management and those eager to learn and spread awareness. Training programmes will be available to ensure proper qualification."

She highlighted that with over 250 nationalities residing in the UAE, reaching diverse communities through media campaigns, educational workshops in schools, and public awareness initiatives is crucial. 

"We will also hold online seminars to make information accessible to everyone," she added.

Individuals and institutions can join the association through an online platform set to launch after Eid Al-Fitr. "We will soon unveil the association's digital identity, logo, and headquarters. The platform will offer various membership options, training programmes, events, and consultation services," AlSuwaidi said.

The association's launch coincides with the 'Year of the Community' 2025 initiative, which promotes unity, collaboration, and cultural heritage preservation. The national initiative, supported by various governmental and private entities, focuses on volunteerism and impactful projects that reinforce collective responsibility.

Sara AlKuwari

Sara AlKuwari is an Emirati reporter who may look shy and quiet but is determined and has a strong desire to highlight Emirati culture in an impactful way. She is also a tea lover and an avid reader.

sara@khaleejtimes.com