The UAE National Program for Preparedness and Response (Jaheziya) has launched the National Emergency Response Forum under the Unified and Integrated National Preparedness and Response System, with broad participation from healthcare, security, civil defense and vital sector entities.
The forum is part of national efforts to improve institutional integration, unify operational concepts and strengthen the efficiency of emergency and crisis response systems in line with international best practices.
Get Updated Faster & FREE: Download the Gulf News app now – just click here.
The event brought together officials, experts and first responders from healthcare facilities, ambulance services, civil defence, police and other critical sectors involved in major incident management.
During the forum, frontline defense personnel from the Jaheziya Program, the Istijaba Program and the UAE National Medical Reserve and Volunteer Program were honored in recognition of their role in protecting the community and strengthening national health security.
A report on the Unified and Integrated National Preparedness and Response System was presented, highlighting key achievements, including emergency preparedness programs for healthcare and non-healthcare personnel, training for first responders, institutional preparedness initiatives and community awareness programs.
The forum featured panel discussions, workshops, and technical presentations showcasing national and international experiences and emerging trends in emergency preparedness and response aimed at enhancing the competencies of first responders.
The programs are based on a comprehensive training framework that combines theoretical and practical components, including simulation exercises and multi-agency response scenarios delivered according to an internationally accredited methodology.
These initiatives are implemented in collaboration with leading academic institutions and training centers from the United States, Europe and other regions, supported by annual investments exceeding Dh100 million.
Dr Adel Al Shamry Al Ajami, CEO of Zayed Giving Initiative, President of Emirates Doctors Initiative and CEO of Jaheziya, said, “The forum represents a national training platform aimed at strengthening coordination and integration between entities involved in the management of major incidents and mass casualty events.”
He added, “The strong participation reflects a shared commitment across government, private and non-profit sectors to improve collaboration, exchange expertise and equip first responders with practical skills based on a unified and internationally accredited framework.”
Dr Al Ajami noted that the forum supports coordination between national institutions and international partners, emphasizing the importance of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, in addressing current and future challenges.
He said, “The National Unified and Integrated Preparedness and Response System follows the vision of leadership in increasing preparedness, transforming challenges into opportunities and advancing sustainable development through investments in human capital.”
Professor Roberto Mugavero, President of the European Center for Disaster Medicine, praised the advanced capabilities of the United Arab Emirates, noting that its model represents a global benchmark in institutional integration and capacity building.
Forum sessions addressed key topics including emergency management strategies, command and control systems, multi-agency preparedness and best practices in life-saving operations.
Participants also discussed global trends in disasters, the increasing complexity of emergencies and the importance of proactive, training-based approaches to risk reduction, alongside challenges related to communication systems, supply chains, infrastructure integration, patient triage and service continuity.
The forum emphasized the importance of strengthening governance frameworks, integrating national programs and ensuring regulatory harmonization to enhance preparedness and response capabilities.
It serves as a platform to strengthen partnerships, share expertise and launch initiatives aimed at achieving higher levels of preparedness, community protection and ensuring the continuity of vital services.
