Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
At Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority is not merely observing innovations, it is actively shaping the role of emergency, crisis and disaster response in an autonomous future.
Lt. Eng. Hassan Ali Alkatheeri, Acting Director of Strategic Planning and Institutional Development Department, emphasised the dual responsibility of Civil Defence in this evolving landscape.
“We will play two major roles — we will be users of these advanced technologies in our vital operations, and we will be a key part of the response system for any emergencies caused by these same technologies. In both cases, we are developing our capabilities and resources to respond efficiently and effectively,” he told Aletihad.
Among their innovations on display was Suhail, the world’s first jet-powered firefighting drone — a significant UAE innovation that heralds the future of smart and safe emergency response.
“Suhail is powered by jet propulsion systems to withstand the intense pressure generated by high-rise firefighting operations,” Alkatheeri explained.
“Unlike typical drones relying on propellers, this one is equipped with jet engines, enabling it to support critical operations in major fire incidents.”
For the Civil Defence Authority, participation in Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week goes beyond exhibition, it is strategic, Alkatheeri said.
“This supports our strategic direction in adopting modern technologies and artificial intelligence across our core emergency services, firefighting, rescue and medical response. These operations demand that we keep up with global advancements. This week has allowed us to engage with manufacturers, developers, and specialists from across the field.”
Alkatheeri outlined the UAE’s role in autonomous research: “We are part of a broader ecosystem working on this. In the UAE, we reached an advanced stage in research and development, and the results so far reflect growing public confidence in these technologies. We are integrating them fully, particularly in the domains of safety and rapid response.”
According to the authority, the Suhail drone, equipped with smart systems, allows access to hotspots that cannot be reached manually, and enhances the speed and effectiveness of fire response.
Suhail features cutting-edge computer vision and LiDAR-based 3D scanning for precise mapping, target detection and obstacle avoidance, and is equipped with integrated smart systems that enable vertical flight, precise manoeuvring, and efficient performance in difficult conditions.
