ABU DHABI, 29th May, 2025 (WAM) -- The National Search and Rescue Centre (NSRC) has affirmed that the UAE’s hosting of the 39th International COSPAS-SARSAT Meeting on Search and Rescue Operations, taking place from 27th May to 5th June, marks a key milestone in strengthening its international standing in search and rescue and reflects its humanitarian commitment to saving lives globally.
Saif Al Kaabi, Head of Training and Exercises at NSRC, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the UAE’s hosting of this global forum underscores its responsibility in protecting lives and highlights its leadership in advancing international cooperation through cutting-edge technology.
The NSRC, under the National Guard Command, is overseeing the event’s organisation in full coordination with the COSPAS-SARSAT organisation and its member states. The UAE is also demonstrating its advanced capabilities in the field throughout the meeting.
The gathering aims to enhance satellite-based distress signal tracking systems, foster collaboration among member states and promote the exchange of best technical and operational practices, thereby improving the speed and accuracy of global rescue missions.
Al Kaabi stressed the importance of such meetings in boosting international coordination across satellites, ground stations and control centres to ensure swift transmission of emergency alerts. These mechanisms contribute to faster response times and improved survival rates across air, land and sea operations.
More than 45 countries and international organisations are participating, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), International Maritime Organisation (IMO), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and several national search and rescue and telecommunications bodies.
Al Kaabi noted that the UAE’s role as host reflects its growing status as a regional hub for rapid response and disaster preparedness. He highlighted the free-to-use, 24/7 COSPAS-SARSAT system, which provides reliable emergency detection across the globe.
He also emphasised the value of cross-sector partnerships between civil, governmental and private entities in enhancing response capabilities and expanding operational coverage during crises.
On technology’s role, Al Kaabi said, “We utilise artificial intelligence and drones to expedite location tracking, analyse data and enhance team safety, which improves the effectiveness of emergency responses.”
He added that the UAE continues to broaden its humanitarian support to disaster-struck countries, either directly or through international collaboration, in line with its principled commitment to global relief.
Al Kaabi pointed to key challenges facing global rescue teams, such as accessing remote locations, terrain complexity, inconsistent technical infrastructure and unpredictable weather. He said forums like COSPAS-SARSAT enable nations to align strategies and exchange knowledge to address these obstacles.
Hosting the event, he noted, also boosts public awareness, supports national capacity building and further cements the UAE’s global reputation in search and rescue excellence. NSRC continuously evaluates its participation through strengthened partnerships and policy development to enhance the quality of its domestic and international rescue missions.