Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) is revolutionizing firefighting capabilities with the introduction of the advanced Shaheen firefighting drone. This upgraded version aims to provide quicker and more efficient fire suppression, particularly in high-rise buildings, where rapid intervention is critical.

The Next Generation of Firefighting Drones

The Shaheen drone, first deployed during the Al Barsha fire in September 2025, has undergone significant enhancements. Originally capable of carrying 1,200 liters of water and firefighting foam, the first iteration performed relatively quickly, responding within six minutes of a reported fire. With a history of major fires in Dubai, including five significant incidents in high-rise buildings since 2015, the need for prompt action and effective fire mitigation has never been more pressing. The upgraded Shaheen 2 dramatically extends its operational range, increasing its endurance from 20 minutes to an impressive 10 hours, powered by electric vehicles stationed on-site.

Recent demonstrations at the Intersec 2026 event showcased this next-generation drone alongside an innovative robotic assistant designed to operate in extreme conditions. DCD’s Commander-in-Chief, Rashid Al Matrooshi, announced that each drone is valued at around AED 500,000 and comes equipped with a parachute system to safeguard against potential operational failures caused by weather or human error.

Robotic Innovations in Fire Response

In addition to the Shaheen drone, DCD unveiled advanced firefighting robots reminiscent of large dogs, featuring high-pressure water cannons capable of reaching distances of up to 60 meters at a flow rate of 40 liters per second. According to Lt. Mohammed Al Sabousi, these robots are designed to support firefighters in challenging environments, providing assistance in high-rises, tunnels, and industrial areas. The robots are waterproof and weather-resistant, ensuring that they can effectively operate even in harsh conditions while minimizing risk to personnel.

One variant of the robot will serve a dual purpose: not only will it assist in active firefighting operations, but it will also be employed for training and post-incident evaluations. With onboard sensors and cameras, the smaller robot can survey dangerous areas, delivering critical information without endangering firefighters.

Enhancing Response Capabilities with Off-Road Vehicles

DCD also introduced a new off-road vehicle designed for emergency responses in desert or rough terrain, responding to increased calls stemming from winter camping activities. This vehicle is particularly useful for reaching remote locations that are often challenging to access, making it an essential part of the modern firefighting toolkit.

Addressing Dubai’s Fire Safety Challenges

The urgency for enhanced firefighting mechanisms is underscored by a series of major incidents in Dubai’s high-rise buildings, including the infamous fires at the Address Downtown hotel and Torch Tower. The recent Al Barsha incident highlighted the urgency for advanced technology in firefighting, allowing for effective responses to hard-to-reach fires.

DCD’s innovative approach, featuring drones and robotic aids, not only improves response times but also transforms the overall landscape of firefighting in this rapidly developing metropolis. As firefighting technology continues to evolve, Dubai sets a compelling example for cities around the globe, emphasizing the importance of innovation in public safety.