Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) has won the inaugural NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award — the highest global recognition for AI-driven fire prevention — cementing Dubai's position at the forefront of smart safety innovation. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, announced the honour on his X account, congratulating DCD for what the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has called the world's best initiative deploying cutting-edge AI to reduce fire incidents.
What Is the NFPA Award?
The Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem Global Influencer Award is issued by the US-based National Fire Protection Association, the world's largest fire safety organisation. The award was presented at the NFPA Stars at Night awards gala during the annual NFPA Conference & Expo in Orlando. DCD was the inaugural recipient, selected for its measurable impact on fire prevention through advanced technology.
Dubai's AI-Powered Environmental Preparedness Programme
The award specifically recognises DCD's Environmental Preparedness Programme, an initiative that leverages advanced artificial intelligence technologies to proactively prevent fires and protect people and assets. The programme uses AI to analyse data from fire incidents, identify patterns, and continuously improve prevention mechanisms — an approach NFPA affirmed as both effective and inventive.
Eng. Dana Kamal, Director of International Business Development MENA at NFPA, noted that DCD had "made exceptional progress in the adoption of smart technology" for delivering safety services and improving emergency preparedness awareness.
Major General Jamal Almehairi Accepts the Award
Major General Jamal Bin Adeith Almehairi, Assistant Director General of Dubai Civil Defence, accepted the award on behalf of the Ministry of Interior and in honour of His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, and Lieutenant General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, General Director of Dubai Civil Defence. His acceptance underscored DCD's institutional commitment to safety excellence and quality.
Sheikh Hamdan's Praise for Emirati Talent
Beyond the award itself, Sheikh Hamdan used the occasion to highlight the capabilities of Emirati professionals, affirming that they are already elevating UAE safety and protection standards on the global stage. The recognition by NFPA, he said, demonstrates Dubai's proactive role in developing better and more effective solutions for citizens and the environment.
WFERA Appointment: Dr. Essa Ahmed Al Mutawa
Sheikh Hamdan also congratulated Major Dr. Essa Ahmed Al Mutawa on his appointment as head of global indicators for fire incidents and head of carbon emissions reduction research at the World Fire Emission Reduction Alliance (WFERA). The dual recognition — both the DCD award and the WFERA appointment — signals the UAE's growing influence in shaping international fire safety and environmental policy.
