Traveling to the UAE is an exciting experience with stunning sights, modern cities, and luxury experiences. However, emergencies can happen anytime, and it’s important for tourists to know how to access 24/7 help to stay safe and secure. This guide explains everything you need to know to handle emergencies quickly and easily while visiting the UAE.
Emergency Numbers You Must Know
The UAE has a well-organized emergency system. Tourists should keep these numbers handy:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance/Medical Emergencies: 998
- Fire Department: 997
- Tourist Police: 800-4888
These numbers work 24/7 and provide support in multiple languages like English, Arabic, and Hindi. Save them on your phone or write them down in case your phone runs out of battery or stops working.
Using the UAE Police App
The UAE Police app, available for iOS and Android, helps tourists report emergencies quickly. With the app, you can:
- Report accidents or thefts instantly
- Request police help without visiting a station
- Track the status of your report in real time
- Access all emergency numbers with a single click
This app is useful for tourists unfamiliar with local streets or laws.
Tourist Police Services
Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have tourist police who help visitors. They assist with:
- Lost passports or IDs
- Reporting stolen wallets or belongings
- Resolving disputes in hotels or public areas
- Giving directions and safety advice
Tourist police officers speak multiple languages and provide friendly, personalized help.
Hospitals and Medical Services
For medical emergencies, the UAE has public and private hospitals operating 24/7. Some well-known hospitals include:
- Rashid Hospital, Dubai
- Dubai Hospital, Dubai
- Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi
- Mediclinic Hospitals (multiple locations)
Private hospitals may provide faster care but cost more. Carrying travel insurance is recommended to cover medical costs.
Pharmacies and Urgent Care
Many pharmacies in Dubai and Abu Dhabi stay open 24 hours. They provide:
- First aid supplies
- Prescription medicines
- Over-the-counter medicine for common issues like headaches or colds
Urgent care centers handle minor injuries or sudden illnesses without long waits at hospitals.
Roadside and Travel Assistance
Tourists often rent cars or use taxis. In case of accidents or breakdowns:
- Keep your rental company’s emergency number handy
- Use RTA Dubai’s 24/7 helpline (800-9090) for roadside help
- Know local towing services in Abu Dhabi and other emirate
Navigation apps like Google Maps also help find nearby hospitals, police stations, and petrol stations.
Embassy and Consulate Help
If you face legal issues or lose your passport, contact your home country’s embassy or consulate. They provide 24/7 support for:
- Lost or stolen passports
- Legal guidance
- Emergency evacuation assistance
- General safety advice
Save embassy contact details before traveling.
Mobile Apps for Tourists
Several mobile apps help tourists access emergency assistance:
- Dubai Police App: Report crimes, accidents, and check police services
- Salama Insurance App: Access health insurance coverage
- Careem or Uber Apps: Request rides quickly for emergencies
- Google Maps: Locate nearby hospitals, pharmacies, or police stations
Safety Tips for Tourists
Even with 24/7 help, prevention is better. Tourists should:
- Carry a copy of your passport and ID
- Save emergency numbers on your phone
- Avoid traveling alone late at night in unknown areas
- Inform someone about your location
- Store money, credit cards, and valuables safely
Dealing with Lost or Stolen Items
If you lose important items like passports, credit cards, or phones:
- Contact the tourist police immediately
- Inform your embassy or consulate
- Cancel or block your cards via banking hotlines or apps
- Keep records of all reports for insurance claims
Medical Emergencies While Traveling
For medical emergencies:
- Call 998 immediately for an ambulance
- Give your exact location and medical details
- Follow instructions from emergency responders
- Keep travel insurance information ready
For minor issues:
- Visit a 24-hour pharmacy or urgent care center
- Use online doctor consultations if available
- Rest and stay hydrated while seeking help
Using Hotels for Emergency Assistance
Most hotels in the UAE offer 24/7 front desk services. They can:
- Call police or medical services for you
- Provide directions to nearby hospitals
- Help with lost property or disputes
- Assist with translation in emergencies
Conclusion
Accessing 24/7 help as a tourist in the UAE is simple if you know the right numbers, apps, and services. Whether it’s police assistance, medical emergencies, lost documents, or roadside help, the UAE has a reliable system for quick support.
Planning ahead, saving important contacts, and knowing available resources ensures your trip stays safe, comfortable, and stress-free. Being prepared lets you enjoy everything the UAE has to offer without worry.