Following the sudden military escalation across the Arabian Peninsula and subsequent airspace closures, local authorities have issued strict guidelines for all residents, expatriates, and tourists.
If you are currently in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, or neighboring cities, your primary focus should be on immediate safety, securing reliable communication, and following official directives. This guide provides the essential protocols and contact information you need right now.
1. Immediate Safety Protocols: What to Do Right Now
Local civil defense authorities have activated emergency alert systems. If you hear sirens or receive an emergency broadcast on your mobile device, follow these steps immediately:
- Shelter in Place: Stay indoors. Do not go outside to film or observe the sky.
- Move Away from Glass: Relocate to interior rooms, stairwells, or designated safe zones within your building. Keep away from windows and glass doors to avoid injury from shattered glass caused by shockwaves or falling debris.
- Do Not Handle Debris: If you suspect projectile debris has fallen near your residence or hotel, do not approach or touch it. Report it immediately to the local police.
- Keep Passports Ready: Have your passport, Emirates ID (or local residency card), and essential medications packed in a small “go-bag” near the door in case of sudden evacuation orders.
2. Official Emergency Contact Numbers
Keep these numbers saved or written down. Note that emergency dispatchers in all these countries speak both Arabic and English.
United Arab Emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.)
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 998
- Fire / Civil Defence: 997
- National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA): Check official updates via their verified social media channels.
Qatar (Doha)
- All Emergencies (Police, Fire, Medical): 999
Bahrain
- All Emergencies: 999
- Traffic Accidents: 199
Kuwait
- All Emergencies: 112
3. Flight Status and Airport Advisories
Commercial aviation across the region is currently paralyzed due to military airspace closures.
- Do Not Go to the Airport: Dubai International (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), and Hamad International (DOH) have suspended all operations. Going to the airport will only cause congestion and leave you stranded without accommodation.
- Airline Communications: Emirates, flydubai, Etihad, and Qatar Airways are offering automatic waivers for rebooking. Check your airline’s official app or website for the status of your specific PNR (Booking Reference).
- Stranded Transit Passengers: If you are stuck inside an airport transit terminal, follow the instructions of ground staff. Dedicated rest zones and emergency provisions are being deployed by airport authorities.
4. Embassy and Consular Contacts for Expats
If you require urgent repatriation information or consular assistance, contact your national embassy. Due to high call volumes, check their official websites or X (formerly Twitter) accounts first.
- United States:
- US Embassy Abu Dhabi: +971 2 414 2200
- US Consulate General Dubai: +971 4 309 4000
- Action: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) immediately to receive direct alerts.
- United Kingdom:
- UK Embassy UAE: +971 2 610 1100 (Select the option for emergency consular assistance).
- India:
- Indian Embassy Abu Dhabi: +971 2 449 2700
- Indian Consulate Dubai: 24/7 Emergency Helpline numbers are actively updated on their official website (cgidubai.gov.in).
5. Communication and Information Hygiene
During regional crises, misinformation spreads rapidly. Protect yourself by managing your information sources:
- Trust Only Official Sources: Rely on state news agencies (e.g., WAM in the UAE, QNA in Qatar) and official verified government accounts.
- Conserve Battery: Power grids remain stable, but it is best practice to keep your phones fully charged and use power-saving modes.
- Check in with Family: Send a brief text message to your emergency contacts back home to confirm your status and location. Text messages often go through even when voice networks are congested.
Note: The situation is fluid. Always prioritize the real-time instructions given by local law enforcement and civil defense personnel on the ground over general online guides.