How to Call an Ambulance in the UAE: 998 Number, Costs and Emergency Steps?
In a medical emergency, knowing the right number to call can save valuable time. Whether you are a UAE resident, tourist or visitor, ambulance services are available across the country when urgent medical assistance is needed.
The main UAE ambulance number is 998. You can also call 999, the general emergency number, and the operations room can coordinate the appropriate emergency response. These emergency services operate 24 hours a day across the UAE.
What is the UAE Ambulance Number?
📞 Ambulance Emergency Number: 998
📞 General Emergency Number: 999
The emergency service operates 24 hours a day across the UAE. In serious medical situations, emergency authorities may also arrange an air ambulance when medically necessary.
Who can Use Ambulance Services in the UAE?
Ambulance services are available to everyone, including:
If someone is facing a serious medical emergency, you should contact emergency services immediately.
Is Ambulance Service Free in the UAE?
Emergency response is provided to individuals who need urgent help, regardless of their insurance status.
For residents, ambulance services are generally covered under UAE health insurance, including basic health insurance plans. Hospitals provide the initial emergency care needed to stabilise the patient.
However, after the emergency stabilisation phase, additional treatment, medication or further hospital care may be covered by insurance or may need to be paid for by the patient if they are uninsured.
What Information should you give the Ambulance Operator?
When calling 998, try to stay calm and provide clear and accurate information. Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services advises using the C-LINE method to help emergency responders understand the situation and send the appropriate medical support.
C – Chief Complaint: Explain why you are calling. For example, is the person unconscious, experiencing chest pain, struggling to breathe or seriously injured?
L – Location: Give your exact location, including the area, building or villa name, apartment number, floor and nearby landmarks.
I – Incident: Explain what happened, such as a road accident, fall or fire.
N – Number of Casualties: Tell the operator how many people are injured or require medical assistance.
E – Extent of Injuries: Describe how serious the injuries appear and mention important details such as severe bleeding, burns, breathing difficulties, consciousness or known medical conditions.
UAE Ambulance Emergency Tips
During a medical emergency:
📞 Call 998 for an ambulance
📞 Call 999 for general emergency assistance
🧘 Stay calm while speaking to the operator
📍 Give your exact location
🚑 Clearly explain what happened
👥 Tell responders how many people are injured
🩺 Describe the person’s condition and visible injuries
Giving clear information can help emergency authorities send the right ambulance and medical support as quickly as possible.
Can you learn Emergency Response Skills in Dubai?
Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services also offers a free online emergency response course through the Dubai Ambulance app. Users can access the Estijaba service to learn more about responding to emergency situations at home or outdoors.
UAE Ambulance Services FAQs
1. What number should I call for an ambulance in the UAE?
- Call 998 to request an ambulance anywhere in the UAE. For general emergencies, you can also call 999, and the operations room can coordinate the response.
2. Is the UAE ambulance number available 24 hours?
- Yes. Emergency ambulance services are available 24 hours a day across all UAE emirates.
3. Can tourists call an ambulance in the UAE?
- Yes. UAE ambulance services are available to citizens, residents, tourists and other visitors.
4. Do I have to pay for an ambulance in the UAE?
- Emergency response and initial emergency stabilisation are provided when urgent medical help is needed. Further treatment and medication after stabilisation may be covered by insurance or may need to be paid for if the patient is uninsured.
5. What should I tell the ambulance operator?
- Use the C-LINE method: explain the Chief Complaint, Location, Incident, Number of Casualties and Extent of Injuries.
Final Thoughts
In an emergency, remember the most important UAE ambulance number: 998. Stay calm, provide your exact location and clearly explain the medical situation. Whether you are a resident or a tourist, knowing what information to provide can help emergency responders assess the situation and reach you with the appropriate support.