The UAE Government has issued a Federal Decree-Law to reorganize the Civil Defense Authority, with the goal of strengthening the nation’s preparedness for emergencies and disasters, while upholding the highest standards of public safety and protection.
This Decree marks a significant step in modernizing the national civil protection framework. The reorganization focuses on improving coordination between local and federal entities working in civil defense, developing advanced alert and evacuation systems, providing care for affected individuals, and forming specialized teams for relief efforts.
The Decree established a new entity named the ‘Civil Defense Authority’, part of the National Emergency, Crisis, and Disasters Management Authority. This new body replaces the Civil Defense Department previously operating under the Ministry of Interior.
The Civil Defense Authority is tasked with strategic responsibilities to enhance civil protection and ensure comprehensive readiness to address risks and disasters. These responsibilities include developing policies, strategies, and regulations related to civil defense in coordination with relevant entities, studying potential risks and incidents, and preparing plans to manage them efficiently.
The Authority is also responsible for creating hazard prevention programs and establishing safety standards, securing buildings and facilities against fire hazards, and deploying rapid response teams to incident sites to extinguish fires effectively.
The Authority’s duties extend to establishing and equipping specialized risk management centers and public alert systems to warn residents of potential hazards. It also prepares evacuation plans for residents when necessary and ensures residential and institutional buildings are adequately equipped. Medical and social care is provided for affected individuals in collaboration with relevant entities.
To further bolster national preparedness, the Authority is tasked with procuring and maintaining equipment essential for civil defense operations. It also coordinates essential services—medical, social, engineering, administrative, and educational—to ensure continuity during times of disaster. Additionally, the Authority organizes efforts and collaborates with entities that have internal security systems, such as oil companies and airports, to provide support as required.
The Civil Defense Authority is committed to forming specialized teams to carry out response and relief operations in affected areas. It organizes joint training programs for civil defense personnel and volunteers and implements awareness campaigns to educate residents on the necessary actions during emergencies.
The Authority’s responsibilities also include monitoring radiological, chemical, and biological hazards and taking the necessary measures to address them in coordination with relevant authorities. Furthermore, it enhances cooperation among UAE emirates to establish support centers that improve civil defense services at national and international levels.
The Civil Defense Authority prioritizes coordination with entities that maintain internal security and safety systems, such as oil companies and airports, to ensure effective support and assistance when required. This includes organizing methods for providing aid and fostering efficient collaboration during emergencies, as per the statement.
