Dubai Civil Defense honoured with NFPA global safety award
Iain Hoey
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Dubai Civil Defense recognised for global safety efforts
The Dubai Civil Defense, under the leadership of the Ministry of Interior, has been awarded the inaugural NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award.
The announcement was made by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) during the NFPA Stars at Night awards ceremony at the annual NFPA Conference & Expo in Orlando.
Major General Jamal Bin Adeith Almehairi, Assistant Director General of Dubai Civil Defense, accepted the award on behalf of the Ministry of Interior.
This award, inspired by former NFPA board member Hatem Kheir, recognises exceptional commitment to safety through the principles of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem.
The Dubai Civil Defense’s integration of advanced technologies, extensive training programs, and proactive community outreach has significantly enhanced fire and life safety standards in Dubai and globally.
Leadership and innovation in fire safety
Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Dubai Civil Defense has become known for its innovative approaches.
The organisation has focused on adopting smart technology and comprehensive training programs to deliver critical safety and security services, thereby improving the quality of life in the UAE and raising awareness about emergency preparedness and disaster management.
Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development MENA at NFPA, stated: “Dubai Civil Defense led by the Ministry of Interior has made exceptional progress in the adoption of smart technology and extensive training programs to deliver vital safety and security services, ultimately improving the quality of life for the UAE community and raising emergency preparedness and disaster management awareness.”
Global initiatives and partnerships
The Ministry of Interior of the UAE has also spearheaded the International Initiative for Law Enforcement for Climate (I2LEC).
Launched at the World Government Summit in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in 2023, I2LEC aims to foster cooperation among law enforcement agencies, international organisations, and governments to combat environmental crimes.
In its first year, I2LEC garnered support from over 60 law enforcement agencies worldwide, seizing more than $32 million in proceeds from environmental crimes.
Additionally, the initiative trained over 270 law enforcement officials from more than 40 countries, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development through enhanced community safety and international partnerships.
NFPA Stars at Night Gala highlights
The 2024 NFPA Stars at Night Gala celebrated 14 individuals or organisations across seven award categories.
This event highlighted the importance of recognising and promoting best practices in fire, life, and property safety on a global scale.
Eng. Dana Kamal further emphasised the impact of such recognitions: “By honouring entities like the Dubai Civil Defense led by the Ministry of Interior, this award promotes the adoption of best practices in fire, life, and property safety and crisis management, setting a high standard globally.
“It encourages other organisations worldwide to strive for similar excellence in protecting lives and property.”