United Arab Emirates Coast Guard Number: 996
+971 ยท Coast Guard
The coast guard emergency number in United Arab Emirates is 996. Operated by Ministry of Interior. Free to call. Works from mobile phones.
Coast Guard
United Arab Emirates ยท Coast Guard
๐ Maritime emergency number 996. Coast Guard handles all maritime emergencies. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
๐ข Dedicated Number Pages
๐ Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
๐ฃ๏ธ Emergency Phrases in United Arab Emirates
Use these phrases to communicate in an emergency when language is a barrier. Tap the speaker to play pronunciation.
โ ๏ธ When NOT to Call Coast Guard
- โข Do not call 998 for minor ailments - visit a local clinic or pharmacy
- โข Do not call 999 for non-urgent police matters - use the MOI app or visit the local police station
- โข Do not use emergency lines for road conditions or general information
- โข Do not call emergency numbers for traffic fines - use the MOI app
- โข Do not make false emergency calls - punishable under UAE law with fines and imprisonment
โ๏ธ Travel Notes โ United Arab Emirates
Emergency response is fast and excellent throughout the UAE. The country has modern infrastructure and well-equipped emergency services. Medical care is world-class. Ambulance services are advanced. Coast Guard provides comprehensive maritime coverage.
๐ก๏ธ Traveling to United Arab Emirates? Protect Yourself
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We recommend securing travel insurance before your trip.
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Coast Guard Emergency Service in United Arab Emirates โ Complete Guide
When traveling to United Arab Emirates or living there as an expat, knowing the correct coast guard number in United Arab Emirates is critical for emergency preparedness. The official emergency contact line for coast guard services in United Arab Emirates is 996, which is operated and monitored by Ministry of Interior. Maritime emergency number 996. Coast Guard handles all maritime emergencies. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
How to Dial 996 in United Arab Emirates
To reach the Coast Guard in United Arab Emirates, dial 996 from any local fixed line, cellular phone, or public payphone. Dialing from mobile devices is fully supported across local mobile operators and international roaming SIM cards. A SIM card is typically required by mobile operators in United Arab Emirates. If you lack a SIM card, dial the universal emergency number 112. Calls to this emergency service are 100% free of charge โ no prepaid airtime credit or active subscription plan is required.
Calling from International Roaming or Abroad
If you are within United Arab Emirates using an international roaming SIM card, you can dial 996 directly without any country code prefix. If you need to contact emergency dispatch in United Arab Emirates from an international location, the country calling code is +971.
Language & Communication with Dispatchers
Emergency operators in United Arab Emirates communicate primarily in ar. If you do not speak ar, remain calm and state your language immediately (e.g. "English, please"). Most national dispatch centers have access to telephonic interpretation services or English-speaking officers to ensure rapid dispatch.
What to Expect When You Dial 996
When you call the coast guard number in United Arab Emirates, you will be connected to a trained dispatcher at Ministry of Interior. These operators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. When connected, clearly state:
- Your exact location (city, neighborhood, landmark, or GPS coordinates)
- The nature of the emergency (coast guard assistance)
- Number of individuals involved or needing immediate medical/police/fire assistance
- Your contact number for callback if disconnected
All Emergency Numbers in United Arab Emirates
Please note that United Arab Emirates utilizes dedicated emergency lines for different agencies. Besides the Coast Guard (996), the following emergency services can also be reached directly: Police (999), National Ambulance Service (998), Civil Defence Fire Service (997), Coast Guard (996). Additionally, the universal emergency contact number 112 is active across United Arab Emirates and will redirect calls to the appropriate local agency.
Official Regulatory & Government Source
The emergency number 996 is verified against official directories published by Ministry of Interior. Last verified on 2026-01. If you notice any outdated information or changed hotline details, please contact our editorial team so we can update the platform for traveler safety.
Frequently Asked Questions โ Coast Guard in United Arab Emirates
What is the Coast Guard number in United Arab Emirates? โผ
The Coast Guard emergency number in United Arab Emirates is 996. Maritime emergency number 996. Coast Guard handles all maritime emergencies. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
Does 996 work from mobile in United Arab Emirates? โผ
Yes, 996 works from all mobile phones in United Arab Emirates.
Can I call 996 without a SIM card? โผ
A SIM card is typically required. Try 112, the universal number, which works without a SIM on most networks.
Is calling 996 free in United Arab Emirates? โผ
Yes, calling 996 is free in United Arab Emirates. No airtime credit needed.
Who operates Coast Guard in United Arab Emirates? โผ
The Coast Guard service in United Arab Emirates is operated by Ministry of Interior. Source: https://www.moi.gov.ae/en/About.Moi/emergency.services.aspx
Does 911 work in the UAE? โผ
Yes. 911 works in some emirates and redirects to 999. The primary emergency number is 999 for police.
Can I call 999 from a mobile without credit in the UAE? โผ
Yes. All emergency calls are free and can be made without airtime credit.
Are emergency calls free in the UAE? โผ
Yes. All emergency calls to 996, 997, 998, and 999 are free of charge.
Do emergency operators speak English in the UAE? โผ
Yes. Emergency operators are bilingual in Arabic and English. English support is standard.
What number do I call for maritime rescue in the UAE? โผ
996 is the Coast Guard emergency number. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16. Handles all maritime emergencies.