In an emergency, knowing the number is only the beginning. A calm caller who can state where they are, what has happened and how to call back can help responders act quickly. In the UAE, the widely used emergency numbers include 999 for Police, 998 for Ambulance and 997 for Civil Defence. Save them offline and explain them to visitors and family members who may need help while travelling.
Call the service that matches the emergency
Call 999 for an urgent police matter, 998 when ambulance assistance is needed and 997 for fire and Civil Defence emergencies. Official UAE Government guidance also lists 996 for Coastguard and 995 for Find and Rescue. Use an emergency number when there is an immediate threat to life, safety or property; do not delay a serious call while searching online for a perfect answer.
When the call connects, start with location. Give the emirate, road, building name, apartment or villa number, nearest landmark and direction of travel if you are on a road. Then explain what you can see: a medical collapse, fire, collision or safety risk. Give a callback number, answer questions directly and follow instructions. Do not guess about an injury or hazard; say what you know and what you do not know.
Make it easier to act under pressure
Keep your phone charged on long drives and share a live location with a trusted person when appropriate. In a car, stop only where safe and do not place yourself in traffic to take photographs or investigate a collision. At home or in a hotel, learn the building address and nearest landmark before an emergency happens. Visitors should save their accommodation name, location and local contact details in a note they can show or read out.
Emergency readiness is part of ordinary planning. Before an outdoor trip, read the Dubai desert safety guide; use the Dubai parking guide for a calmer arrival. Visitors using public transport can review how to use a nol card, travellers should use the UAE travel-insurance checklist, and families planning a beach day can use the Kite Beach food guide.
| Check | Why it matters | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Current details | Information can change | Confirm before acting |
| Timing | Prevents rushed decisions | Allow a practical buffer |
| Records | Supports follow-up | Keep confirmation accessible |
Practical checklist
- Use the official source close to the date you act.
- Confirm information for your own circumstances.
- Keep key details accessible offline.
- Allow time for delays or questions.
- Ask the responsible authority when uncertain.
Questions people often ask
What is the UAE Police emergency number?
Call 999 for Police emergencies in the UAE.
What number should I call for an ambulance?
Call 998 when emergency ambulance assistance is needed.
What number should I call for a fire?
Call 997 for fire and Civil Defence emergencies.
What should I say first on an emergency call?
State your exact location, then describe what happened and give a callback number.
Should I call an emergency number for a non-urgent question?
Use the appropriate non-emergency service when no immediate danger exists so emergency lines remain available for urgent calls.
Official source: current official UAE information.
