Rescue Robots & Drones Deployed Across Dubai Beaches

A new AI-powered beach safety system combining aquatic rescue robots and water rescue drones has been deployed across public beaches by Dubai Municipality to support lifeguards and expand emergency coverage along the coastline.
The initiative introduces what officials describe as the region’s first aquatic rescue robot. The remote-controlled, self-propelled device can reach swimmers in distress up to five times faster than a traditional lifeguard, operate as far as one kilometre from shore and tow loads of up to 500 kilograms.
The robot is paired with water rescue drones designed to assist during emergencies at sea. The drones function as flying lifebuoys that can be dispatched rapidly over water, land on the surface and provide flotation support while transmitting live video to lifeguards. This footage allows teams to monitor incidents, assess risks and coordinate rescue operations more effectively.
Both technologies operate alongside trained lifeguards and are connected through continuous monitoring and centralised control systems. The combined system is intended to improve response times and extend surveillance across larger coastal areas, particularly during complex conditions or busy beach periods.