Dubai: Robot, New Apps to Help People of Determination During Emergencies

Dubai, UAE — Dubai continues to lead in accessibility innovation. The city is introducing new technologies that protect People of Determination (PoDs) during emergencies. These solutions combine smart systems, real-time alerts, and robotics to ensure faster and safer evacuations.

Estijaba: Dubai’s Central Emergency Database

The Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS) is building a digital platform called Estijaba. This system will collect and organize essential details about PoDs across the emirate.

Developed with the Community Development Authority (CDA) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Estijaba offers a single, unified source of verified information. Consequently, emergency teams can access accurate medical records, disability information, and personal data within seconds.

Relatives can register PoDs directly on the platform. They can also include vital information such as disability type, known allergies, and active medications. After DCAS verifies the data, first responders will use it to plan safer and faster rescues.

“We check every detail carefully before adding it to the system,” said a DCAS spokesperson. “This helps rescuers respond quickly and confidently.”

In addition, Estijaba will soon link with existing DHA and CDA databases to include already-registered individuals. To ensure complete privacy, the system will use blockchain technology, allowing only authorised personnel to view sensitive information.

DB Safe App Adds New Accessibility Features

Meanwhile, the Dubai Municipality (DM) has upgraded its DB Safe app with new emergency features. The app now provides audio alerts in both English and Arabic, guiding PoDs during situations like earthquakes.

“The update ensures that People of Determination can evacuate safely if a tremor occurs,” explained a DM researcher.

Furthermore, the app uses location-based notifications to direct users toward the safest exits. This feature especially benefits people with visual or mobility challenges. As a result, DB Safe offers a smarter, more inclusive way to protect all residents during emergencies.

Innovations Highlighted at AccessAbilities Expo

Both Estijaba and DB Safe featured at the seventh AccessAbilities Expo in Dubai. The annual event is one of the largest gatherings for PoDs in the Middle East. It showcases innovations, products, and services that promote inclusion and independence.

Suhail: The Robot Educator Making Learning Fun

At the DM booth, visitors met Suhail, an interactive robot designed to teach PoDs how to react in emergencies. The robot’s moving limbs, color-changing face, and animated mouth make its lessons engaging, especially for children.

“We use Suhail in schools to teach students how to act during an earthquake,” said one researcher.

Moreover, Suhail gives clear voice instructions and uses visual expressions to hold students’ attention. Visitors at the Expo praised the design and suggested adding sign language communication.

“That’s valuable feedback,” the researcher noted. “We plan to add sign language in future versions to make it even more inclusive.”

Building a Smarter and Safer Future

Dubai’s latest innovations — from AI-driven databases to teaching robots — reflect the city’s deep commitment to inclusion and safety. These tools not only protect People of Determination but also enhance community preparedness.

Ultimately, with systems like Estijaba, DB Safe, and Suhail, Dubai continues to prove why it stands among the global leaders in smart city innovation and accessible emergency response.