Overview of the extreme weather response in Dubai

Following the extreme weather events earlier in April 2024, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, commended the emirate’s capacity to handle such challenges.

The Crown Prince emphasised Dubai’s robustness and the readiness of its emergency response systems under the overarching guidance of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Hamdan chaired a meeting at the Emirates Towers, attended by notable figures including HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The meeting focused on reviewing and bolstering the emirate’s preparedness for future contingencies, reflecting confidence in the ongoing strategic efforts to solidify Dubai’s status as a resilient global city.

Community and government unite to mitigate weather impact

During the severe weather, over 25,000 personnel, alongside 5,000 security patrols and emergency vehicles, were mobilised to ensure safety and rapid response across Dubai.

Sheikh Hamdan praised the comprehensive emergency management efforts, highlighting the unity and collaborative spirit of Dubai’s community, government agencies, and businesses.

“Dubai has once again demonstrated the strength and cohesiveness of its society; One that is based on unity, solidarity and readiness to face and overcome challenges.

Dubai is blessed with its people and, on behalf of the leadership, we say: thank you,” said Sheikh Hamdan.

The efforts were not limited to immediate response but also included strategic directives by Sheikh Hamdan to develop comprehensive, proactive plans to enhance the emirate’s emergency responses to extreme weather events, thus minimising future risks and disruptions.

Launching of ‘Tadhamon’ campaign to support affected residents

In a parallel initiative, the Community Development Authority (CDA) announced the launch of the ‘Tadhamon’ campaign to support residents adversely affected by the heavy rains.

This campaign, initiated under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan, facilitates contributions through the ‘Jood’ digital platform, ensuring swift and effective aid distribution.

Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the CDA, remarked on the campaign’s importance: “The Authority has received numerous requests for contributions from businesspeople and companies, all eager to lend a helping hand to those affected.”

The initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to its residents, leveraging technology to foster community support and resilience in times of need.

IFSJ comment

The recent extreme weather events in Dubai have brought to the forefront the critical importance of preparedness and unity in facing natural calamities.

Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Dubai has managed to mitigate the immediate impacts and also strengthened its communal bonds and strategic foresight.

The launching of the ‘Tadhamon’ campaign through the ‘Jood’ platform is a testament to the emirate’s proactive approach to crisis management and community care.