At a time when global challenges are intensifying and risks are growing in both scale and complexity, the United Arab Emirates continues to entrench its proactive approach to strengthening safety and security systems, while building bridges of cooperation and integration with nations around the world. Guided by the vision of its wise leadership, the UAE has placed global stability, human safety, and sustainable development at the heart of its national priorities, positioning itself as a key contributor to a safer and more resilient world.
In this context, the World Safety Summit emerged as a natural extension of the UAE’s strategic initiatives, most notably the “1 Billion Readiness” initiative and the Global Environmental Alliance. The summit brought together 16 firefighting organisations representing 64 countries and cities, reaffirming the UAE’s status as a global platform for shaping the future of safety and for protecting lives and property.
Organised by Dubai Civil Defence in January, the summit was held in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Border Security Council, alongside a distinguished gathering of senior officials, experts, and heads of leading international firefighting organisations. The event marked a significant milestone in consolidating a culture of prevention and in shifting safety from a reactive emergency response to a sustainable, forward-looking approach.
In just one year, the “1 Billion Readiness” initiative delivered remarkable results. More than half a billion people worldwide were reached through awareness efforts, supported by over 250 million digital engagements. Educational content was delivered in 25 languages and backed by extensive international partnerships, underscoring the initiative’s truly global reach.
The impact of these efforts extended well beyond awareness. On the ground, tangible improvements were recorded, including an 18 per cent global reduction in fire incidents and a 24 per cent improvement in emergency response times across participating countries. Human losses declined by 25 per cent, while material losses were reduced by 20 per cent worldwide. These achievements are estimated to contribute to saving approximately 45,000 lives each year.
The summit confirmed that the UAE is no longer merely a nation that applies the highest safety standards domestically. It has become a global hub for policy development, knowledge exchange, and best practices in safety and emergency preparedness. This model reflects a leadership vision that places people at the centre of development and recognises that investing in safety is, fundamentally, an investment in life and in the stability of societies.
