With Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting the UAE, knowing how to stay safe in Dubai is critical. This comprehensive emergency guide covers what to do when air raid sirens sound, shelter locations, official emergency hotlines, and evacuation procedures. Whether you're a long-term resident, Golden Visa holder, or recently relocated for business, this information could save your life.
Emergency Numbers — Save These Now
Police: 999 | Ambulance: 998 | Civil Defense: 997 | Dubai Police App: Download for alerts | NCEMA: @ABORAYHAN_AD on X
When Air Raid Sirens Sound
Follow these steps immediately:
Stay Calm & Move Indoors
Don't panic. Move inside the nearest building immediately. Avoid windows and exterior walls. Ground floor or basement is safest.
Shelter in Place
Go to an interior room without windows — bathroom, hallway, stairwell. Close all doors. Turn off AC to prevent smoke intake. Stay low.
Check Official Channels
Follow @DubaiPoliceHQ and @ABORAYHAN_AD on X (Twitter). Monitor UAE TV/radio. Don't rely on social media rumors.
Wait for All-Clear
Do NOT leave shelter until official all-clear is announced. Sirens typically sound for 1-3 minutes. Wait at least 10 minutes after last explosion sound.
Emergency Shelter Locations
Public shelters for Dubai residents:
- Metro Stations: All Dubai Metro stations serve as emergency shelters. Underground stations (BurJuman, Union, etc.) provide best protection.
- Mall Basements: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and other major malls have designated shelter areas in parking levels.
- Building Parking: Your building's underground parking provides good protection. Go to lowest level.
- Schools: Many Dubai schools have designated shelter areas. Check your children's school emergency plan.
- Community Centers: Municipal community centers serve as gathering points.
If You're Driving When Sirens Sound
- Pull over safely to the side of the road
- Exit the vehicle and seek indoor shelter
- If no buildings nearby, lie flat in a ditch or low ground away from the car
- Do NOT park under overpasses (potential collapse risk)
- Do NOT stay in tunnels (potential smoke trap)
Emergency Supplies Checklist
Keep these ready in your home:
- Water: 3 liters per person per day, minimum 3-day supply
- Food: Non-perishable items — canned goods, dried fruit, crackers
- First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic, medications, prescription drugs
- Flashlight: Battery or hand-crank, extra batteries
- Phone Charger: Power bank fully charged
- Documents: Passport, Emirates ID, Golden Visa, insurance papers (copies)
- Cash: AED 2,000+ in small bills (ATMs may be down)
- Radio: Battery-powered for official announcements
- Whistle: To signal for help if trapped
- Dust Masks: N95 masks for debris/smoke protection
Official Emergency Hotlines
Additional contacts:
- Dubai Health Authority: 800 342
- GDRFA (Immigration): 800 5111
- RTA (Roads): 800 9090
- DEWA (Utilities): 991
- UAE Red Crescent: +971 2 641 9999
Embassy Contacts
Register with your embassy for emergency updates:
- US Embassy: CLOSED but emergency line +971 2 414 2200 (Note: Non-emergency staff departed)
- UK Embassy: +971 2 610 1100
- Indian Embassy: +971 2 449 2700
- Pakistani Embassy: +971 2 444 7800
- Philippines Embassy: +971 2 634 0001
Evacuation Procedures
If evacuation is ordered:
- Grab your go-bag: Documents, medications, cash, phone charger
- Follow official routes: Use roads designated by authorities, not shortcuts
- Leave early: Don't wait until last minute. Roads will be congested.
- Head inland: Away from coastal areas, airports, and military bases
- Inform someone: Tell a contact outside UAE your plans
- Consider Al Ain: Interior city, away from Gulf coast
"The UAE has invested significantly in civil defense infrastructure. Residents should follow official guidance, stay away from windows during alerts, and maintain emergency supplies. Our air defense systems provide strong protection, but personal preparedness is essential."
— Dubai Civil Defense Authority, March 2026Protecting Your Property
For property owners and tenants:
- Insurance: Review your policy for war/terrorism coverage. Document property condition with photos/video.
- Valuables: Consider moving to safe deposit box or secure location
- Utilities: Know how to shut off gas and water main
- Windows: Close blinds/curtains to reduce shattered glass injury risk
- Vehicles: Park in covered garage, away from buildings
Essential Apps to Download
Dubai Police: Emergency alerts | DHA: Health services | RTA: Road closures | GDRFA: Visa services | Red Crescent: Aid locations
