UAE President announces new authority for ambulance, civil defence

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has issued a decree law establishing the Federal Authority for Ambulance and Civil Defence, with Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of Health and Prevention, appointed as its Chairman.

The new authority will oversee ambulance and civil defence operations, replacing the Civil Defence Authority and the National Guard Command in relation to the National Ambulance Company.

It will report directly to the Cabinet and hold full legal, financial and administrative independence.

Its responsibilities include developing national strategies, managing emergency response plans, coordinating with local and federal entities, and ensuring building safety standards.

The Authority will also lead efforts in disaster preparedness, public alert systems, evacuation planning, and pollution hazard monitoring, while supporting vital sectors like oil, aviation and infrastructure.

UAE President issues a Federal Decree Law establishing the Federal Authority for Ambulance and Civil Defence, and appoints the Minister of Health and Prevention Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh as its Chairman pic.twitter.com/seTLfc9LUi

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) October 12, 2025