In the UAE, three numbers cover almost every life-threatening emergency: 999 for police, 998 for ambulance, and 997 for fire. But knowing the full picture — from coast guard and utility failures to mental health lines and domestic violence support — could make a critical difference when seconds count.
Table Of Content
- The Core UAE Emergency Numbers
- What Each Emergency Number Is For
- 999 — Police
- 998 — Ambulance
- 997 — Civil Defence (Fire)
- 996 — Coast Guard
- 112 — Universal Emergency Number
- 991 — Electricity Emergency
- Emergency Numbers by Emirate
- Medical and Health Emergency Numbers
- Mental Health and Crisis Helplines
- Domestic Violence and Child Protection Numbers
- Utility and Infrastructure Emergency Numbers
- Other Important UAE Helplines
- Emergency Apps Worth Downloading
- AD999 — Abu Dhabi Police
- DCAS SOS — Dubai Ambulance
- My Safe Society — Dubai Police
- Dubai Police App
- Tips for Calling UAE Emergency Services
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main emergency number in the UAE?
- Does 112 work in the UAE?
- What is 991 in the UAE?
- Are UAE emergency calls free?
- What should I do if I don’t speak Arabic when calling 999?
- Is there a mental health emergency number in the UAE?
- How do I report domestic violence in the UAE?
Whether you just landed as a tourist, recently moved as an expat, or have lived here for years, this is the one page worth bookmarking. Below you’ll find every essential UAE emergency contact number, organised so you can find exactly what you need, fast.
The Core UAE Emergency Numbers
These are the national numbers that work from any phone, anywhere in the UAE — landline, mobile, or SIM-free. All calls are completely free of charge.
| Number | Service | Available |
|---|---|---|
| 999 | Police | 24/7 — Nationwide |
| 998 | Ambulance | 24/7 — Nationwide |
| 997 | Civil Defence (Fire) | 24/7 — Nationwide |
| 996 | Coast Guard | 24/7 — Nationwide |
| 112 | Universal Emergency (redirects to 999) | 24/7 — Nationwide |
| 991 | Electricity Emergency (DEWA/SEWA) | 24/7 — Dubai & Sharjah |
| 901 | Non-Emergency Police Enquiries | 24/7 — Nationwide |
All UAE emergency numbers are toll-free. You can dial them from any mobile or landline without credit or a SIM plan.
What Each Emergency Number Is For
999 — Police
Call 999 for any police-related emergency: crimes in progress, road accidents, threats to personal safety, or any situation where you need law enforcement immediately. When you call, stay calm, state your location clearly, and describe what is happening. The operator will direct you to the appropriate unit. For minor traffic accidents where no one is injured, you can move your vehicle to the shoulder lane and wait — but the police must still be informed.
998 — Ambulance
Dial 998 for any medical emergency requiring immediate paramedic response. This number also coordinates air ambulance dispatch when needed. When calling, give your exact location, the patient’s condition, and whether they are conscious. In Abu Dhabi, people of determination can send an SMS to 5999 with their location and contact details for medical assistance.
997 — Civil Defence (Fire)
Call 997 for fires anywhere in the UAE. If you discover a fire, evacuate the premises immediately — do not use lifts, close doors behind you to slow the spread, and call from a safe distance. Civil Defence also responds to industrial accidents and hazardous material incidents.
996 — Coast Guard
For maritime emergencies — boat accidents, drowning, vessels in distress, or water rescues — call 996. This covers all UAE coastal waters, ports, and waterways.
112 — Universal Emergency Number
112 is the international standard emergency number and does work in the UAE — however, it redirects your call to 999. If you remember only one number, 999 is the direct line. Visitors from Europe who are used to dialling 112 can use it without concern.
991 — Electricity Emergency
For sudden power cuts or electrical faults, call 991. In Dubai, this reaches DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority). In Sharjah, it connects to SEWA. For water supply failures, see the utilities section below.
Emergency Numbers by Emirate
While national numbers work everywhere, each emirate operates its own police force and local services. Here are the direct lines by location:
| Emirate | Local Police | Anonymous Crime Tips | Other Key Line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | 999 | Aman Service: 8002626 / SMS 8002828 | Abu Dhabi Health: 800-4272 |
| Dubai | 999 | Al Ameen: 8004888 | DHA Health: 800-342 |
| Sharjah | 999 | Najeed: 800151 / SMS 7999 | Sharjah Civil Def: 997 |
| Ras Al Khaimah | 999 | RAK Police: 07-2033444 | RAK Hospital: 07-2266000 |
| Ajman | 999 | Ajman Police: 06-7422222 | Ajman Hospital: 06-7480600 |
| Fujairah | 999 | Fujairah Police: 09-2224411 | Fujairah Hospital: 09-2244111 |
| Umm Al Quwain | 999 | UAQ Police: 06-7651111 | UAQ Hospital: 06-7655555 |
Medical and Health Emergency Numbers
Beyond the 998 ambulance line, the UAE runs several specialised health emergency contacts:
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ambulance (Nationwide) | 998 | 24/7 — includes air ambulance dispatch |
| Istijaba — Abu Dhabi Dept of Health | 8001717 | Urgent medical consultations & bed requests |
| Dubai Health Authority | 800-342 | Health info, hospital referrals |
| Poison Control (Abu Dhabi) | 800-424-2223 | For accidental ingestion or toxic exposure |
| Ministry of Health Hotline | 80011111 | Medicines, healthcare complaints |
| People of Determination — Abu Dhabi SMS | SMS to 5999 | Medical emergencies for those with disabilities |
Tip: If you or a family member has a known medical condition, keep the name of your condition and any medications written in both English and Arabic in your wallet.
Mental Health and Crisis Helplines
The UAE government has invested significantly in mental health support infrastructure. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, these lines are free, confidential, and staffed by trained professionals.
| Service | Number | Details |
|---|---|---|
| National Mental Support Line (MOHAP) | 800 4673 | 24/7 — suicide prevention, crisis intervention |
| Dubai Mental Health Helpline (DHA) | 800 111 | 24/7 — psychological support & crisis response |
| EHS ‘Speak, We’re Listening’ | 800 8877 → press 2 → press 2 | Confidential sessions with trained psychologists |
| Sharjah Child & Youth Mental Health | 800 51115 | Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm — ages 0–18 |
| NCEMA WhatsApp (Disasters) | 024177000 | National crisis & disaster management |
All mental health helplines operate under strict confidentiality. You will be connected with qualified, multilingual counsellors who can provide both immediate support and referrals for ongoing care.
Domestic Violence and Child Protection Numbers
The UAE introduced a strengthened domestic violence law in 2024 (Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024), which expanded the legal definition of abuse and increased penalties significantly. If you or someone you know is in danger, do not hesitate to call.
| Service | Number | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Ewaa Shelter — Women & Children | 800 7283 | 24/7 — shelter, legal aid, psychological support |
| Ministry of Interior Child Protection | 116111 | 24/7 — child abuse & domestic violence reporting |
| Dubai Foundation for Women & Children | 800 111 | 24/7 — Dubai-based, WhatsApp supported |
| Child Protection Centre — Sharjah | 800 700 | Sharjah — toll-free |
| Women’s Protection Centre — Sharjah | 800 800 700 | Sharjah — toll-free |
| Hemaya Foundation — Ajman | 800 446292 | Ajman children and women |
| Aman Centre — RAK Police | 07-2356666 | Women and children in RAK |
| Human Trafficking Hotline (Ewaa) | 800 7283 | Nationwide — also handles trafficking reports |
Utility and Infrastructure Emergency Numbers
For sudden power cuts, water failures, or gas emergencies, use the appropriate emirate-specific line:
| Emirate | Provider | Electricity | Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | ADDC | 8002332 | 8002332 |
| Dubai | DEWA | 991 | 991 |
| Sharjah | SEWA | 991 | 991 |
| Northern Emirates | Etihad Water & Electricity | 991 | 992 |
Other Important UAE Helplines
The UAE maintains a comprehensive network of specialised helplines beyond the standard emergency services:
| Issue | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Labour Complaints | 800 5005 | Ministry of Human Resources |
| Consumer Complaints — Dubai | 600 545555 | DED — product & service disputes |
| Food Poisoning — Dubai | 800 900 / Dubai Municipality | foodpoisoning@dm.gov.ae |
| Counterfeit Medicines | 80011111 | Ministry of Health and Prevention |
| Drone Accident / Loss of Control | +971506414667 (GCAA) | Also: aai@gcaa.gov.ae |
| Nuclear / Radiation Concern | 800 3267999 (FANR) | Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation |
| Animal Welfare / Abuse | 8003050 (MoCC) | Ministry of Climate Change & Environment |
| Stray / Injured Animals — Dubai | 800 900 | Dubai Municipality |
| Human Rights Issues — Abu Dhabi | 8002121 (CDA) | Community Development Authority |
| UAE National Abroad (Emergency) | 00971800 24 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs |
Emergency Apps Worth Downloading
The UAE’s emergency infrastructure extends to mobile apps. These are official government tools that can speed up response times — especially useful if you struggle to communicate verbally in a crisis.
AD999 — Abu Dhabi Police
The go-to app for Abu Dhabi residents. One tap on the SOS button connects you directly to police, fire, or ambulance dispatch. Especially useful for people of determination, with accessibility features built in.
DCAS SOS — Dubai Ambulance
Developed by the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services. Allows residents to request ambulance support, including for people with visual or hearing impairments. Also offers first aid training videos.
My Safe Society — Dubai Police
The UAE Public Prosecution’s smart app for reporting crimes, suspicious social media activity, and any behaviour that threatens public order or national security. Reports can be submitted confidentially.
Dubai Police App
Beyond emergency reporting, this app lets you access police services, pay traffic fines, report minor accidents, and track your case status — all in one place.
Tips for Calling UAE Emergency Services
When an emergency strikes, knowing what to say saves precious time. Here is what to keep in mind:
- Stay calm and speak clearly — operators are trained to help you even if you are panicked
- State your location first — give street name, nearest landmark, or building name
- Describe the emergency briefly — what happened, how many people are involved, any injuries
- All calls are free — no credit or prepaid balance needed on any UAE number
- English-speaking operators are available on request — ask immediately if you need one
- Do not hang up — stay on the line unless the operator tells you to
- 112 works in the UAE — it redirects to 999, so use whichever you remember
- Never misuse emergency lines — non-urgent calls slow down response times for those in genuine need
If you cannot speak during a call, trained operators are equipped to handle silent calls. Stay on the line — they will attempt to locate you and dispatch help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main emergency number in the UAE?
The main emergency number in the UAE is 999. It connects you to police, who will redirect your call to ambulance or fire services if needed. You can also dial the specific services directly: 998 for ambulance and 997 for fire (Civil Defence).
Does 112 work in the UAE?
Yes, 112 works in the UAE and redirects to 999. It is especially useful for visitors from Europe who are accustomed to the international standard emergency number. However, 999 remains the fastest and most direct option.
What is 991 in the UAE?
991 is the electricity emergency number in Dubai (DEWA) and Sharjah (SEWA). In Abu Dhabi, call 8002332 for the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company. For the northern emirates, 991 covers electricity and 992 covers water supply failures.
Are UAE emergency calls free?
Yes. All UAE emergency numbers — including 999, 998, 997, 996, and all helplines listed in this guide — are completely free to dial from any mobile or landline, with or without credit.
What should I do if I don’t speak Arabic when calling 999?
Simply ask for an English-speaking operator as soon as the call connects. English-speaking operators are available on all national emergency lines. It is also helpful to know your exact location in advance, as this can be communicated quickly regardless of language.
Is there a mental health emergency number in the UAE?
Yes. The National Mental Support Line (800 4673), run by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, operates 24/7 and provides confidential support for mental health crises, including suicide prevention. In Dubai, call 800 111 for the Dubai Health Authority’s mental health helpline.
How do I report domestic violence in the UAE?
Call 116111 (Ministry of Interior Child Protection) or 800 7283 (Ewaa Shelter) for immediate support. Both lines operate 24/7 and can arrange emergency shelter, legal assistance, and psychological support. Reporting is confidential and protected under UAE law.
