Living abroad can be unpredictable, and that’s why knowing the right emergency contacts for Dubai expats is essential. Whether it’s a health scare, legal trouble, or housing issue, having these numbers at your fingertips makes all the difference. This 2025 guide lists the most trusted and accessible emergency contacts for Dubai expats—organized by category and available 24/7.
Here’s a detailed, beginner-friendly guide to the 10 emergency contacts every expat in Dubai must save. This list is tailored to real-life scenarios and includes official numbers, apps, and helpful tips for quick response during a crisis.
1. Dubai Police – 999
Why you need it: For reporting crimes, theft, traffic accidents, or any security concerns.
- Emergency Number: 999
- Website: dubailpolice.gov.ae
- App: Dubai Police App (available on iOS and Android)
Local Tip: Minor traffic accidents can be reported via the Dubai Police app without calling 999. This speeds up the insurance process.
2. Ambulance / Medical Emergency – 998
Why you need it: For any life-threatening medical emergencies like strokes, heart attacks, or accidents.
- Emergency Number: 998
- Pro Tip: Mention your exact location clearly (building name, area, landmark) as many buildings share similar names.
Real-life example: When a British expat fainted due to dehydration at a beach in JBR, her friend called 998 and paramedics arrived within 10 minutes—thanks to the pinpoint GPS sent via the caller’s smartphone.
3. Fire Department (Dubai Civil Defence) – 997
Why you need it: For fires in homes, buildings, or vehicles.
- Emergency Number: 997
- Also handles chemical spills, gas leaks, and elevator rescues.
Tip: If you live in a high-rise apartment, make sure your building’s fire exit routes are known and unobstructed.
4. Non-Emergency Dubai Police – 901
Why you need it: For non-urgent police matters like noise complaints or general queries.
- Non-Emergency Number: 901
- Available 24/7 in multiple languages
Good to Know: Use 901 instead of 999 to avoid blocking emergency lines for non-urgent issues.
5. DHA Medical Call Center – 800 342
Why you need it: For non-emergency medical advice, appointments at DHA-approved clinics, or vaccine-related queries.
- Number: 800 DHA (800 342)
- dha.gov.ae
Example: Need to find a dermatologist open on Friday? Call 800 342, and they’ll assist you with clinics based on your location and insurance coverage.
6. Consulate or Embassy
Why you need it: For lost passports, legal issues, or registering births abroad.
Here are a few major consulates in Dubai:
| Country | Contact | Emergency Hours |
|---|---|---|
| USA | +971 4 309 4000 | 24/7 |
| UK | +971 4 309 4444 | 24/7 |
| India | +971 4 397 1222 | Limited hours |
| Philippines | +971 4 220 7100 | 24/7 (hotline) |
Pro Tip: Save your embassy’s emergency-only number in case your passport gets stolen or you’re detained unexpectedly.
7. RTA Dubai – 800 9090
Why you need it: For public transport issues, lost items in taxis, Nol card errors, or traffic fines.
- RTA Helpline: 800 9090
- rta.ae
Real-life scenario: A Pakistani expat lost his wallet in an RTA taxi. Calling 800 9090 with the taxi number (printed on the receipt) helped retrieve it the same day.
8. Telemedicine UAE Platforms
Why you need it: For after-hours doctor consultations, minor health concerns, or COVID-related symptoms.
- Seha App (Abu Dhabi + Dubai)
- Okadoc, HealthHub, and Aster Clinics also offer telemedicine
Cost: AED 50–150 per consultation, depending on your insurance coverage.
Tip: Some platforms offer WhatsApp consultations or 24/7 support—ideal for remote-working expats or families with kids.
9. Legal Aid & After-Hours Lawyers
Why you need it: For tenancy disputes, labour issues, or getting legal advice after hours.
- Legal Advice Dubai: +971 50 258 8229
- Dubai Legal Affairs Dept.: legal.dubai.gov.ae
Useful Software: Apps like Legal Advice Middle East or LawZilla UAE help expats get basic legal guidance.
Tip: If you’re detained or facing legal trouble, contact your embassy and a UAE-licensed legal advisor immediately.
10. Insurance Helplines (Health, Car, Home)
Why you need it: To file claims, request emergency assistance, or get provider info.
Common insurer numbers:
- AXA Gulf / GIG: 800 292
- Oman Insurance: 800 4746
- Daman Health: 800 432626
- RAKBANK Takaful: 800 725
Add to Contacts: Name of insurer, policy number, and roadside assistance number (if applicable).
Bonus: 3 Emergency Apps Every Expat Should Download
- DubaiNow – Manage utilities, Nol card, visa renewals, police reports
- Dubai Police App – File minor traffic reports, check fines
- Seha or Okadoc – Book teleconsultations instantly
Many use cloud hosting services and Google VPS server architecture for fast, secure service—ideal for remote workers and tech-savvy expats.
FAQ: Emergency Preparedness for Expats in Dubai
1. What should I do if I lose my passport in Dubai?
Contact your consulate immediately and file a police report (use Dubai Police 901 for non-urgent help). Most embassies require a police report to issue a temporary travel document.
2. Is calling 999 free in Dubai?
Yes, calls to all emergency services (999, 998, 997) are toll-free and available 24/7.
3. What if I don’t speak Arabic?
Dubai emergency operators are multilingual. You’ll likely find assistance in English, Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and more.
4. Are there emergency services for pets?
Yes. Blue Oasis Veterinary Clinic (+971 4 884 8841) and The Veterinary Hospital Dubai offer 24-hour services.
5. Can I report accidents or fire via mobile apps?
Yes. Use the Dubai Police app for accidents and DubaiNow or Civil Defence portal for fire safety reports.
Final Word:
Don’t wait until it’s too late—store these numbers today. Emergencies don’t give warnings, but your preparation can turn a crisis into a manageable situation.
