- Dubai is expanding the use of robots on its front lines, deploying automated machines to fight fires and patrol public spaces
- The robotic system can spray water up to 196 feet (60 metres) and pump around 634 gallons (2,400 litres) per minute
- The firefighting robot is part of a broader strategy to expand automation across public safety services
Dubai is expanding the use of robots on its front lines, deploying automated machines to fight fires and patrol public spaces as part of a wider push to integrate artificial intelligence into emergency services.
At the centre of the shift is a remotely operated firefighting robot used by Dubai Civil Defence. Designed for high-risk environments involving toxic gases, chemical fires and extreme heat, the machine has been deployed at real-life incidents since the beginning of this year, according to officials.
The robotic system can spray water up to 196 feet (60 metres) and pump around 634 gallons (2,400 litres) per minute. Officials say it adds an extra layer of protection in situations where human firefighters would be exposed to dangerous fumes or unstable structures.
Mohammed Ahmad Alsubosi, Dubai Civil Defence, said per Reuters: “The specifications of this robot is that it can shoot (water) up to 60 metres (far), plus 2,400 litres (of water) per minute, so that’s about 40 litres per second. A human firefighter, you know, if he goes into a very harsh environment with chemicals, with toxic materials burning, it can harm him. But it doesn’t harm the robot as much since it also detects these kinds of gases and leaks through its sensors.”
The robot formed part of the response to a warehouse blaze in Ras Al Khor Industrial Area on Friday.
According to a report by Gulf News, authorities were alerted at 1.23pm, and crews from Nad Al Sheba Fire Station arrived at 1.26pm, a response time of four minutes.
Firefighters found heavy smoke coming from a warehouse, and the blaze was later classified as moderate. Containment operations began immediately. At 2.28pm, the field commander confirmed the fire was under control. No injuries were reported.
Following suppression, crews began cooling operations to prevent re-ignition, a crucial step in industrial fires where heat can linger in walls, ceilings and stored materials. A spokesperson for Dubai Civil Defence said the site would be handed over to the relevant authorities after the cooling process in line with safety procedures. The cause of the fire has not yet been announced.
Officials said robotic equipment assisted ground crews during the incident, reducing direct exposure to heat and smoke in a zone known for warehouses and storage facilities that may contain flammable goods.
The firefighting robot is part of a broader strategy to expand automation across public safety services. In November, Dubai Police introduced a self-driving patrol robot, known as DPR 02, at the Global Village tourist destination.
“It’s called DPR 02. It’s a fully automated car. It has many, many features. It’s fully supported with AI functions, face recognition,” Aisha Saeed Harb, from the Dubai police, told Gulf News.
Authorities say the rollout of robotic and AI-powered systems is intended to improve safety, efficiency and response times as the city grows. Government strategies outline long-term plans to expand the use of robotics and artificial intelligence across policing, transport and emergency response.
For now, the warehouse fire in Ras Al Khor has become the latest example of robots working alongside firefighters on the ground.
