DUBAI: Dubai authorities have released a new public safety guide to help residents respond calmly and correctly during emergency alerts, as part of ongoing preparedness efforts across the UAE.
The guide, issued by the Dubai Media Office in collaboration with the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Dubai Resilience Center, is now available for download in seven languages, including Tagalog, making it more accessible to overseas Filipino workers and other expat communities.
The multilingual approach reflects the UAE’s diverse population and aims to ensure that critical safety instructions are clearly understood by all residents, regardless of language.
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Why this matters for OFWs and expats
For many Filipinos living and working in Dubai, official alerts can feel confusing or alarming, especially during times of regional tension.
This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on what to do when receiving emergency notifications on mobile phones, helping reduce panic and misinformation.
Authorities emphasized that Dubai remains safe and fully operational, and that these guidelines are precautionary measures designed to support a calm and organized response.
What to do if you receive an alert
The safety guide outlines simple but important actions depending on where you are:
If you are inside a building:
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Move away from windows, balconies, and glass areas
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Go to an interior space
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Listen to building announcements or security instructions
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Avoid using elevators unless told to do so
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Stay in place until you receive an official “all clear” message
If you are outdoors:
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Enter the nearest building immediately
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If driving, park safely and move to a secure location
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Avoid open spaces and stay away from glass structures
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Follow only verified updates from official sources
Warning against misinformation
A key part of the guide focuses on stopping the spread of false information.
Residents are advised to:
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Avoid sharing unverified messages, videos, or voice notes
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Rely only on official government updates
This is especially important in fast-moving situations, where misinformation can cause unnecessary fear or confusion.
Emergency contacts remain active
The guide also lists key emergency hotlines, including:
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Police: 999
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Ambulance: 998
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Civil Defense: 997
All services remain fully operational across the emirate.
A push for calm, not fear
Authorities made it clear that the goal is not to alarm residents, but to prepare them.
For expats and OFWs, the message is simple: stay calm, follow official instructions, and avoid reacting to unverified information.
In a city as diverse as Dubai, being informed in your own language could make all the difference in staying safe.
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