Middle East

• Topic: Security
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 10th August 2026
• Year: 2026

Dubai Police has completed its seven-week 'Shade and Reward' campaign, an initiative focused on providing humanitarian assistance, promoting health awareness and strengthening safety education among workers living across several labour accommodation sites in Dubai.

The programme reflects Dubai Police’s ongoing efforts to improve quality of life and support a vital segment of the UAE’s workforce.

Led by the Positive Spirit Council, the campaign brought assistance and awareness activities directly to workers at their workplaces. It combined humanitarian support with health, safety and security guidance, reflecting the UAE’s broader commitment to placing people at the centre of sustainable development.

The campaign concluded with an event in Al Qusais attended by 1,275 workers. Participants received meals, umbrellas, juices and refreshments, with the gathering highlighting values of compassion, solidarity and shared community responsibility.

Strengthening community engagement

Mona Khalifa Hammad, Member of the Federal National Council, attended the closing ceremony and praised the campaign as an effective example of sustainable community engagement. She highlighted its combination of humanitarian assistance, education and health support, particularly its direct outreach to workers at their places of employment.

Hammad said the initiative illustrates how Dubai Police’s responsibilities extend beyond security, positioning the force as an active partner in improving quality of life and advancing social responsibility.

She also praised the Positive Spirit Council, Dubai Police departments, strategic partners and volunteers involved in the seven-week programme. Their combined efforts, she noted, enabled the campaign to reach thousands of workers while strengthening the UAE’s reputation for humanitarian action.

Promoting workplace health and safety

The campaign involved several Dubai Police entities, including the General Department of Human Rights, General Department of Traffic, Al Qusais Police Station, the Victim Care Centre through the Criminal Community Support Section, the General Department of Community Happiness, the General Department of Operations and the 'Thank You for Your Volunteering' team.

Dubai Police’s Health Centre contributed health awareness sessions led by Dr Ammar Shaker Al Bahindi. The sessions addressed heat exhaustion, including its warning signs and prevention, while emphasising hydration, scheduled rest periods, protection from direct sunlight during peak hours and compliance with the UAE’s midday work ban.

Workers were also advised on maintaining healthy diets, getting sufficient rest, reporting heat-related symptoms at an early stage and following occupational health and safety procedures. Guidance was provided on contacting the appropriate authorities when support is needed, reinforcing efforts to promote safer and healthier workplaces.

A focus on people and wellbeing

Fatima Ahmad Bohjair, Chairperson of the Positive Spirit Council, attributed the campaign’s success to the commitment of Dubai Police and its partners to advancing sustainable community initiatives in accordance with the leadership’s vision of putting people first.

She described the programme as more than a collection of individual activities, portraying it instead as a humanitarian initiative designed to recognise the contribution of workers to the UAE’s ongoing development.

“We sought to combine humanitarian support with health and security awareness because protecting people begins with caring for them, listening to them and reaching them where they work,” she said.

Bohjair said the collaboration maintained throughout the seven-week campaign demonstrated Dubai Police’s emphasis on teamwork and partnerships. She added that the initiative could serve as a model for future community engagement efforts aimed at improving quality of life, strengthening social responsibility and supporting the wellbeing of society as a whole.

• Topic: Industrial
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 10th August 2026
• Year: 2026

Iraq is stepping up measures to protect workers from heat-related occupational risks as temperatures continue to rise, with the Independent High Commission for Human Rights (IHCHR) reviewing workplace safety measures in Baghdad.

The IHCHR-Baghdad Office visited the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs’ National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety to assess the measures being implemented to reduce the risks associated with heat stress in workplaces.

During the visit, the IHCHR team met with the Director General of the National Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, who outlined the measures being implemented under Labour Law No. (37) of 2015 to reduce occupational injuries linked to heat stress.

The measures include shortening working hours and stopping work during peak heat periods. Employers are also required to provide workers with personal protective equipment and drinking water as part of workplace safety requirements.

The Centre is increasing inspection visits to assess whether employers are complying with the required safety measures. Cases involving violations are referred to the competent judicial authorities for appropriate action.

Alongside enforcement activities, the Centre monitors injury statistics received from health institutions. Specialised committees assess reported cases to determine their causes and identify the factors contributing to occupational injuries.

Awareness activities are also being expanded at workplaces considered particularly vulnerable to heat stress. Construction and building projects are among the sectors specifically targeted by these campaigns.

The Centre is also working with the Baghdad Mayoralty to use public electronic screens to distribute information on heat stress prevention and broader occupational safety risks.

Worker protection extends beyond preventive measures, with existing legislation providing specific rights for employees who suffer workplace injuries. These include access to medical treatment at the employer’s expense and legally prescribed leave based on the worker’s health condition.

Legal measures can also be taken against employers that fail to comply with workplace safety requirements when complaints are submitted. Such action is carried out in coordination with the relevant security and judicial authorities.

The IHCHR visit highlights the importance of strengthening occupational health and safety measures as extreme heat creates additional risks for workers, particularly those employed in outdoor and construction-related activities.

• Topic: Security
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 7th August 2026
• Year: 2026

To strengthen cross-border nuclear and radiological emergencies, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding for coordination in nuclear safety and radiation protection, including radiation monitoring, laboratory analysis and joint preparedness

Signed by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and Saudi Arabia's Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission, the memorandum has been designed to combine the laws operative in both countries for stronger impact.

Signing for Qatar was His Excellency Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Engineer Abdulaziz bin Ahmed bin Abdullah al-Mahmoud, and for the kingdom, Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission chief executive Khalid bin Abdulaziz al-Issa. The signatories reviewed how each side can contribute to nuclear safety and radiation protection to exchange expertise and advance technical co-operation. 

Abdullah al-Mahmoud called the memorandum a development advancing the longstanding Qatari-Saudi ties with rich shared history. With this move, the two countries will see wider technical and scientific co-operation, sharing intelligence on nuclear safety and radiation protection. 

The memorandum would formalise and give structure to this sector-specific relationship built on information exchange, research and studies, upskilling opportunities and support co-ordination in radiation monitoring, laboratory analysis and nuclear emergency preparedness and response. The collaboration will benefit human health and the environment, by leveraging nuclear technologies for the cause of peace. The Undersecretary anticipates unlocking new avenues between institutions in both countries and consolidate the Qatari-Saudi partnership in environmental and technical fields.

The areas of cooperation underline diverse aspects from nuclear security and safety, radiation safety and radiation protection to methods of monitoring nuclear facilities and radiation practices, preparedness and response to cross-border nuclear and radiological emergencies, and the provision of assistance should such an emergency occur. Co-operation also extends to radiological laboratories and analyses, the safe transport of radioactive sources, the exchange of information, scientific research, studies, expertise and documents, and the organisation of conferences, seminars and workshops.

The memorandum also comes with scope for the exchange of specialists through scientific and technical visits and training programmes, technical assistance, joint working groups to carry out agreed studies and projects, and a joint committee to develop the co-operation programmes and monitor their implementation.

• Date: 7th August 2026

Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) has strengthened its workplace safety and workforce development programme by becoming the first aluminium smelter in the Middle East to join the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA) Accredited Training Scheme (ATS).

The accreditation enables Alba to deliver LEEA-approved training programmes to its employees and provide internationally recognised certifications to personnel who successfully complete the relevant training.

The initiative is focused on developing the skills and competence of crane operators and other employees involved in lifting activities. It also supports the alignment of Alba’s lifting operations with internationally recognised safety standards and established industry practices.

The accreditation forms part of Alba’s wider approach to strengthening safety performance, operational excellence and employee development. By bringing approved training capabilities in-house, the company can enhance workforce competency while supporting a proactive approach to managing risks associated with critical lifting activities.

Commenting on the achievement, Alba's Chief Executive Officer, Ali Al Baqali, said:

“Safety is more than just a priority at Alba; it is a core value that underpins every aspect of our operations.
Becoming the first aluminium smelter in the Middle East to join LEEA's Accredited Training Scheme reflects our commitment to developing highly skilled personnel, adopting international best practices and setting new benchmarks for safety excellence across the industry. This achievement further strengthens our capability to provide world-class training while ensuring the highest standards of safety for our employees and contractors.”

LEEA Chief Executive Officer Dr Ross Moloney said the accreditation demonstrates Alba’s focus on building workforce competence for safe lifting operations.

“Competence is at the heart of safe lifting operations, and Alba’s achievement of approval under LEEA’s Accredited Training Scheme demonstrates its commitment to developing the knowledge and capability of its workforce. Alba is the first aluminium smelter in the Middle East to receive this specific ATS approval, which permits the delivery of specified LEEA-approved training exclusively to its own employees and within the scope agreed with LEEA. We are pleased to support Alba’s investment in internal workforce development and its commitment to safety, competence, professionalism and continuous improvement in lifting operations.”

Under the accreditation, Alba’s training programme will support employees involved in lifting operations while reinforcing competency and risk management across the organisation.

The company said the initiative contributes to its objective of embedding a proactive safety culture throughout its operations, with a focus on strengthening workforce capabilities, reducing operational risks and improving standards for critical lifting activities.

Alba is a major aluminium producer with an annual production capacity of more than 1.623 million tonnes, based on 2025 output. The company has a 50-year operating history and supplies standard and value-added aluminium products to more than 280 customers worldwide.

The company has sales offices in Zurich and Singapore, as well as a US subsidiary, and is listed on both Bahrain Bourse and the London Stock Exchange. Its shareholders include Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company B.S.C. with 69.38%, Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma'aden) with 20.62% and the general public with 10%.

Alba maintains certifications covering quality, environmental management, information security, occupational health and safety, security operations management, automotive quality and business continuity, alongside Aluminium Stewardship Initiative standards and its EcoVadis sustainability rating.

The company has also identified sustainability as a key area of its long-term strategy. Its ESG Roadmap, launched in 2022, covers decarbonisation, green energy and aluminium, circular economy and secondary aluminium, employee welfare, collaboration and partnership, and transparency, communications and due diligence.

Among its sustainability initiatives are a US$37.5 million spent pot lining treatment plant, the Power Station 5 Block 4 project and a planned 6 MW-plus solar farm. Alba has also introduced EternAl, a low-carbon aluminium product range launched in May 2024, with product series incorporating recycled content and verified in-house carbon offsets.

Safety remains a central focus for the company. Alba reported achieving 48 million safe working hours without a lost-time injury in July 2026. Its safety performance has also received international recognition, including RoSPA’s Lifetime President and President Awards, British Safety Council International Safety Awards and National Safety Council awards.

Through its Stakeholder Engagement Plan, Alba also maintains communication with stakeholders including communities and environmental and social groups. The company uses the plan to address environmental and social impacts associated with its operations and maintains an external grievance mechanism through its Code of Conduct.

• Topic: Fire Safety
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 31st July 2026
• Year: 2026

Paul Sincaglia, chief fire protection engineer at the International Code Council (ICC) explores why fire code compliance has evolved beyond a regulatory requirement to become a critical business and development priority

The MENA region is undergoing a remarkable period of urban transformation. Across the Gulf and beyond, ambitious national visions are driving the development of new cities, landmark destinations and increasingly sophisticated high-rise projects that are reshaping the built environment.

From high-rise towers and mixed-use developments to smart cities and tourism destinations, the scale of investment is extraordinary. These projects are redefining how people live, work and interact, while positioning the region as a global hub for innovation, business and tourism.

Yet amid the excitement surrounding architectural ambition and technological advancement, there is another consideration that deserves equal attention: safety.

As buildings become taller, denser and more complex, ensuring they can protect occupants during emergencies is becoming a defining measure of success. A building's performance is no longer judged solely by its design, sustainability credentials or commercial value. Increasingly, it is also measured by its ability to safeguard lives, minimize risk and remain resilient in the face of unexpected events.

This is particularly relevant when it comes to fire safety.

Across the region, developers are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in modern construction. But with greater ambition comes greater responsibility. The consequences of inadequate fire safety planning can be severe, affecting not only occupants but also businesses, investors and communities.

For that reason, fire code compliance should not be viewed as a regulatory obligation alone. It is a fundamental component of responsible development and long-term economic growth.

A changing built environment

The days of standalone buildings designed for a single purpose are long gone. We are now witnessing integrated developments that bring together residential, hospitality, retail, entertainment and commercial spaces within a single project. These destinations are designed to not only create vibrant communities and seamless experiences, but they also introduce new layers of complexity when it comes to safety planning.

At the same time, the industry is embracing new technologies and construction methods at an unprecedented pace. Advanced façade systems, renewable energy installations, battery storage solutions, smart building technologies and increasingly interconnected management systems are becoming standard features of many projects. These innovations deliver clear benefits. However, they also create new fire safety considerations that must be understood and addressed from the earliest stages of design.

A mixed-use high-rise, for example, presents very different challenges from a conventional office tower. Thousands of people may move through the building every day, including residents, hotel guests, office workers, shoppers and visitors who are unfamiliar with the layout. Planning for emergency response and evacuation in such environments requires a far more sophisticated approach.

As the GCC continues to grow vertically, fire safety strategies must evolve alongside it.

Fire safety is now a business issue

One of the most significant changes in recent years is the way fire safety is being viewed by stakeholders. Generally, discussions around code compliance were often confined to project teams, regulators and civil defense authorities. Today, the conversation is much broader.

Investors are asking tougher questions about safety and risk. Insurers are placing greater emphasis on fire protection measures and loss prevention strategies. Occupants are becoming more aware of safety standards and increasingly expect the buildings they live and work in to meet the highest levels of protection. Developers are responding to these expectations while balancing growing demands around sustainability, operational performance and project delivery.

The reality is that fire safety is no longer simply about obtaining approvals or meeting minimum requirements. It has become a business consideration that directly influences asset value, operational continuity and stakeholder confidence.

The financial and reputational consequences of a fire incident can be substantial. Beyond the immediate impact on people and property, organisations may face business interruption, legal liabilities, reputational damage and long-term loss of confidence from investors, tenants and customers.

Why building codes matter

Creating safer buildings begins with a strong foundation, and that foundation is provided by modern building and fire codes.

Codes exist because lessons have been learned from decades of experience, research and real-world events. They provide a framework that helps ensure buildings are designed, constructed and operated with safety in mind from day one.

The International Code Council's (ICC) family of International Codes® (I-Codes®), including the International Building Code® (IBC) and International Fire Code® (IFC), establish requirements covering critical areas such as fire prevention, fire protection systems, means of egress, smoke management and structural fire resistance.

One of the strengths of these codes is that they continue to evolve. As new technologies emerge and construction practices change, code requirements are updated to address new challenges and risks. This is particularly important at a time when the industry is rapidly adopting innovations that were far less common only a decade ago.
For high-rise developments, these codes provide a structured and proven framework for addressing the unique challenges associated with vertical construction, complex occupancies and high occupant densities. They help ensure that safety is considered throughout the lifecycle of a building rather than being addressed as an afterthought.

Building safer cities together

Across MENA, there is growing recognition that safe buildings and successful cities go hand in hand.

Many countries across the region have adopted internationally recognised codes and standards as part of broader efforts to strengthen confidence, improve construction quality and support sustainable urban growth.

At ICC, we have had the opportunity to work closely with governments, regulators and industry stakeholders throughout the region to support these efforts through code development, training, certification and technical expertise.

What we continue to see is that the most effective safety outcomes are achieved when compliance is viewed as a shared responsibility rather than a regulatory exercise.
Designers, engineers, contractors, regulators, building owners and facility managers all have a role to play. Safety is strongest when every stakeholder understands their responsibility and remains committed to maintaining high standards throughout the life of a building.

That commitment does not end when construction is complete.

Regular inspections, testing and maintenance of fire protection systems are essential. Continued investment in training and professional development is equally important as buildings become more sophisticated and safety requirements become more complex.

Looking ahead

The region's growth ambitions show no signs of slowing down. As cities become more complex and construction continues to push new boundaries, fire safety must remain a priority from the outset.

Ultimately, fire code compliance is about more than meeting regulations. It is about protecting people, safeguarding investments and ensuring that the region's most ambitious developments remain safe, resilient and fit for the future.

• Date: 27th July 2026

Heat stress is a danger for workers exposed to high temperatures, particularly in the Gulf in the summer, when temperatures can top 50%

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures at work reduces productivity and increases the risk of injury, disease and death, with worker productivity dropping by 2–3% for every degree above 20°C. It can also lead to increased risk-taking and decreased concentration, leading to accidents beyond its direct impact.

Midday work ban

The six countries of the GCC all implement a midday work ban, which prohibits outdoor work in during the summer months, which is generally strictly enforced. Bahrain for example, prohibits outdoor work between 12pm and 4pm from 15 June to 31 August, conducting regular inspections and enforcement measures to safeguard worker wellbeing. In 2025, adherence to the regulation reached 99.96%, indicating growing awareness among employers, supported by regular inspections and enforcement measures designed to safeguard worker wellbeing.

Alba Summer S&H campaign

Many companies and government departments in the Gulf launch summer safety campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of heat stress and measures that can be taken to prevent it, such as increasing the number of breaks, adapting access to water, cool spaces and shade, and adapting the working hours.

Among those is Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), which has launched its annual plant-wide Summer Safety and Health (S&H) Campaign under the theme "Safety by Choice, Excellence by Habit."

The campaign is in alignment with Alba’s commitment to strengthening its safety culture and promoting the health and wellbeing of its workforce, particularly during the summer season, through a series of awareness activities and events. Employees, contractors and workers will receive valuable information and practical guidance on key topics, including heat stress prevention, proper hydration and summer safety best practices, delivered by both internal and external safety specialists.

Core organisational value

Speaking at the campaign launch, Alba’s chief executive officer, Ali Al Baqali, emphasised that safety at Alba is a core organisational value and a year-round commitment that underpins every aspect of the company’s operations. He noted that the Summer Safety and Health Campaign represents an important milestone in Alba’s journey towards safety excellence, providing an opportunity to renew awareness, strengthen safe behaviours and safeguard everyone throughout the most challenging period of the year.

Al Baqali also urged all employees to continue adhering to safety procedures to achieve a 10th consecutive summer without a single heat-related injury or illness, by staying well hydrated, remaining vigilant at all times and reinforcing safety as a conscious choice in every aspect of their work.

As one of Alba’s flagship annual safety initiatives, the Summer S&H Campaign highlights the importance of continuous awareness, personal accountability and proactive risk management in industrial workplaces. The Campaign also plays a vital role in promoting safe behaviours, reducing heat-related incidents and fostering a culture where safety is embraced as a shared responsibility and an enduring daily practice. The company’s comprehensive health and safety initiatives are designed not only to prevent incidents but also to promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement among employees and contractors alike.

Alba’s proactive approach has had results. Last year the company reported it had completed its ninth consecutive summer season without a single heat-related illness or injury, attributing this to its robust awareness campaigns, hydration programmes, and continuous monitoring of working conditions.

• Topic: Industrial
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 24th July 2026
• Year: 2026

The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has officially launched the Waterway Monitoring and Control Centre in partnership with Abu Dhabi Maritime, part of AD Ports Group, and with the support of the National Guard

The inauguration took place in the presence of His Excellency Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Director of the Special Projects Department at the Private Office.

Designed as the emirate's central command hub for maritime oversight, the new facility will supervise waterway safety and public maritime operations using smart technologies and predictive analytics. The centre is intended to improve maritime services while enhancing the overall experience for waterway users throughout Abu Dhabi.

Providing a comprehensive operational view of Abu Dhabi's waterways, which extend across more than 45,000 sq km, the centre enables real-time monitoring of navigational channels, open waters, public maritime services, water transport operations and marine vessel movements. It also oversees the deployment and maintenance of nearly 2,000 navigation aids and sensor-enabled smart lanterns, comprising 1,063 lateral marker buoys, 367 beacons, 227 signage buoys and 62 shallow-water signage boards.

In addition, the facility manages more than 40 public maritime services through official digital platforms while tracking the movements of visiting vessels and monitoring occupancy across more than 1,500 public berths. Its responsibilities also include supervising ferry and water taxi operations, coordinating wreck and debris removal activities, issuing marine notices and circulars, and conducting official inspections to enforce maritime safety regulations across more than 100 public and private maritime facilities and around 3,600 recreational marine craft. The integrated system ensures seamless coordination with the relevant authorities.

By consolidating these activities into a unified digital platform, the centre generates integrated datasets that can be analysed through artificial intelligence to produce predictive insights. These capabilities will support informed decision-making, improve public services and enable proactive measures that enhance safety, accessibility and environmental protection across Abu Dhabi's waterways.

Commenting on the launch, Dr Abdulla Hamad Obaid AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said: "The launch of the Waterway Monitoring and Control Centre will strengthen public safety, maritime mobility, and the efficiency of Abu Dhabi’s public maritime services. Through this resource, we aim to encourage safe waterway use, bolster community confidence in maritime activities, and identify opportunities to further develop our assets and service offering. This initiative reinforces the emirate’s vision to integrate smart mobility solutions that enhance quality of life and support long-term economic growth and further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global maritime hub."

Captain Saif Al Mheiri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime and Chief Sustainability & Risk Officer at AD Ports Group, added: "The safety and sustainability of our waterways are intertwined; every safe journey reduces the likelihood of pollution and habitat disturbance, thereby minimizing the need for emergency interventions. The Waterway Monitoring and Control Centre introduces a new standard of smart surveillance and predictive management. By leveraging real-time data, advanced analytics, and integrated response systems, Abu Dhabi Maritime can ensure safer navigation, faster response, and stronger environmental stewardship across our coastline."

The Waterway Monitoring and Control Centre is managed by the Integrated Transport Centre and operated by Abu Dhabi Maritime in close collaboration with the National Guard, in accordance with the Regulatory Bylaw for Maritime Safety in the Waterways of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Alongside the launch, the Integrated Transport Centre introduced four new patrol boats, crewed by Nishan Security Services, part of AD Ports Group, to conduct daily inspections aimed at identifying unsafe activities and regulatory breaches. The centre's monitoring infrastructure also incorporates 16 radar stations providing a comprehensive traffic overview, 29 CCTV cameras positioned at strategic locations, more than 400 additional cameras installed across public maritime facilities, and 17 VHF communication devices enabling real-time coordination between vessels and shore-based operators.

The Waterway Monitoring and Control Centre is based on Saadiyat Island and is complemented by a satellite facility in Al Dhannah, Al Dhafra region, providing continuous oversight of Abu Dhabi's public waterways.

• Date: 21st July 2026

Workers in the oil and gas industry face a range of hazards, from chemical spills to fires, explosions, exposure to toxic gases and dangers posed by heavy machinery

It may come as a surprise then that it vehicle accidents, rather than any of the above that are the main cause of fatalities in the industry, accounting for more than 25% of all worker deaths. Long journeys in remote off-road areas, severe weather, heavy equipment loads, and worker fatigue are among the contributing factors.

Embedding a culture of safe driver behaviour is therefore critical, involving for example, the recognition of the impact of internal and external factors on driver behaviour, including human factors such as fatigue and stress, and identifying coping mechanisms.

It was with this in mind that leading oilfield services company OiLSERV undertook the RoSPA Level 3 International Award for Driver Trainers to develop its in-house driver trainers, to improve road safety in challenging operational environments.

Operating in the Middle East and North Africa region, OILSERV’s personnel often have to drive for long distances across challenging desert terrain and remote areas to reach well sites and operational bases in high-risk environments.

Building a safe driving culture

OiLSERV’s North Africa QHSE manager, Mohamed Nadjib Debabi, said that the company selected the train-the-trainer qualification as the company is looking to build a long-term safe driving culture, not just to improve driver performance.

“Before taking the RoSPA training, the main challenges we faced were related to effectively delivering defensive driving sessions. We wanted to move away from a purely instructional approach and adopt a coaching-based strategy that actively engages drivers, focusing more on driver psychology and how to encourage drivers to develop a safer mindset and make better decisions on the road.

“We also wanted to bridge the gap between teaching defensive driving as a theoretical concept and helping drivers apply those principles in real-life driving situations."

He added that the qualification helped the company to provide coaching and expertise that combine daily operations with defensive driving theory, as well as the ability to teach hazard perception and dynamic risk assessment - not only road rules.

“We chose RoSPA because it is a recognised awarding body and it provides a training package which has more psychological depth than is typically offered by other driver training providers. RoSPA focuses more on the human factors which are the root causes of road accidents in our industry.”

Measurable improvements

Mohamed Nadjib Debabi stressed that the course did not just focus on driving skills but also on the psychology of teaching safety, which was crucial for the company.

"Since completing the qualification, we have delivered the company's defensive driving training with a more robust and engaging approach, leading to measurable improvements in driver competence and safer driving behaviours.”

He added that he would recommend RoSPA because it provides a framework for organisational change as well as training.

• Topic: Technology
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 20th July 2026
• Year: 2026

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has launched a traffic awareness campaign for truck drivers and transport and freight companies, in cooperation with Dubai Police General Headquarters

The campaign is ongoing and will run through August at truck rest areas and on main roads across Dubai. There will be a series of field activities and awareness workshops to promote safe driving practices, protecting lives and property, reinforcing traffic responsibility, and highlighting the importance of regular vehicle maintenance.

Awareness publications and leaflets will be disseminated to raise awareness on traffic safety requirements, and educate drivers on ways to avoid violations and accidents, and the importance of checking tyre and brake safety before setting off.

The campaign aligns with RTA’s strategic goals of guiding and motivating customer behaviour to support a safer and smoother mobility system. He noted that RTA is deploying all resources to facilitate truck movement, particularly during the summer, through close cooperation with relevant entities and intensified awareness campaigns aimed at reducing accidents and enhancing traffic safety.

The programme will be conveyed through videos featuring social media influencers for distribution across social media platforms, as well as conducting targeted surveys with truck drivers to capture their feedback and requirements. These activities are being carried out across several areas in Dubai, including truck rest areas, Emirates Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, with awareness messages also displayed on electronic signs across Dubai’s roads.

Complying with traffic safety requirements, including never stopping midway, is key to healthy road safety practices. Drivers must promptly call 901 in case of emergencies. 

The campaign aims to engage directly with drivers and educate them about the importance of complying with traffic safety requirements, foremost among them never stopping in the middle of the road, given the direct danger this poses to road users. In emergencies, drivers must immediately call 901.

The Director of Traffic noted that the campaign encourages drivers to read and comply with the Truck Safety Manual, prepared by RTA in three languages. The electronic link to the manual has been printed on giveaway items distributed to truck drivers during all field and awareness visits. The manual includes key information on preventive truck inspection, tyre safety, brake efficiency, and procedures for handling emergency breakdowns.

The campaign also targets transport companies and truck operators, highlighting their role in ensuring regular vehicle maintenance, verifying that tyres are fit for use and trucks are ready for operation before deployment, and encouraging drivers to take sufficient rest breaks and avoid continuous driving over long distances. As part of these efforts, RTA cooperated with Continental Tires to inspect several truck tyres over two days in Ras Al Khor.

Joint inspection teams from RTA and Dubai Police continue to carry out extensive enforcement campaigns at the end of each month, focusing on verifying compliance with technical safety requirements and identifying defects and violations related to truck safety. These efforts contribute to enhancing the safety and security of road users.

• Topic: Industrial
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 20th July 2026
• Year: 2026

New initiatives in Abu Dhabi are ensuring the safe roll-out of autonomous vehicle technology in line with national smart mobility ambitions

The UAE has been making significant progress in promoting smart and sustainable mobility as part of the country’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative aiming to reach zero carbon emissions by 2050. Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai rank in the world’s top 50 smart cities, and Dubai plans to transform 25% of its total transportation to autonomous mode by 2030.

This requires the acceleration of the adoption of smart mobility technologies, as well as the development of a regulatory and operational environment alongside that will ensure that the technology is tested and deployed to the highest level of safety and efficiency.

To this end, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has introduced the first dedicated licence plates for trial and commercial autonomous vehicles in Abu Dhabi, as reported by the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

Specialised licence plates to identify autonomous vehicles

This initiative aims to regulate the operation of autonomous vehicles on the emirate’s roads by introducing the first specialised licence plates that clearly identify vehicles operating within testing and pilot programmes, as well as those delivering commercial services using autonomous driving technologies. These ensure that autonomous vehicles of different types can be easily recognised on the roads, supporting enhanced field monitoring and contributing to improved road safety.

The plates are also linked to the licensing and operational requirements approved for autonomous vehicles, ensuring that operating companies comply with the technical and operational standards adopted in the emirate.

The move is expected to support the continued development of the autonomous vehicle ecosystem in the emirate by enabling the relevant entities to collect and analyse operational data, contributing to the development of policies and regulations that support this sector and strengthening the readiness of the regulatory framework as these technologies scale.

Control room for the management and monitoring of AV operations

Another initiative supporting the development of the autonomous vehicle ecosystem has been the establishment of a central control room dedicated to managing and monitoring autonomous vehicle (AV) operations across Abu Dhabi, featuring advanced systems for real-time monitoring, data analysis, and decision support. It includes a centralised supervision system as well as an integrated platform for the operation and testing of autonomous vehicles (AViTOMS), enabling real-time tracking of vehicle locations, speeds, and routes. It covers all autonomous vehicle services operated by licensed providers in the emirate.

This ensures the highest levels of safety and operational efficiency and enables a fast response to any operational or emergency situations.

It also enables comprehensive trip recording and analysis, coordinated emergency response management with relevant authorities, and the generation of periodic data-driven reports to enhance routing and optimise operational efficiency. In addition, the platform manages the process of issuing permits and approving operational routes.

Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, acting director general of Integrated Transport Centre, said, "The inauguration of the central control room represents a key milestone in the development of the regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles in Abu Dhabi. It responds to the rapid adoption of smart mobility technologies, which require an advanced supervisory system to ensure real-time monitoring and efficient risk management. Through this control room, we establish an integrated approach combining technical capabilities and regulatory frameworks, enhancing the emirate’s readiness to operate autonomous

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 20th July 2026
• Year: 2026

As the mercury surges during the intense Middle Eastern summer months, the simple, everyday act of filling up a vehicle requires significantly heightened vigilance.

The United Arab Emirates has officially inaugurated the seventh edition of its nationwide safety initiative, recognising the unique environmental challenges and thermal stresses posed by the season. Spearheaded by the Joint Committee for Security and Safety, which operates under the expert chairmanship of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, this expansive campaign is meticulously designed to protect motorists, station personnel, and the wider community. The government aims to cement an enduring culture of hazard prevention, by promoting essential security practices at petrol pumps, ensuring that daily transit routines do not compromise human lives or the nation's valuable infrastructure.

A unified national collaboration

This year’s comprehensive rollout is not a solitary governmental endeavour; rather, it represents a highly coordinated partnership across the nation's most prominent fuel distribution and public safety sectors. The campaign is being executed in close alignment with the General Directorate of Civil Defence at the Ministry of Interior. Crucially, it brings together the country's leading petroleum distributors, including ADNOC Distribution, Emirates Petroleum (Emarat), and the Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC). This unified front underscores a robust commitment to elevating operational standards and safety protocols within the commercial sector. By pooling their collective resources and technical expertise, these strategic stakeholders are ensuring that a consistent, authoritative message reaches every corner of the Emirates, standardising best practices across a rapidly growing transport landscape that is vital to the region's economy.

Widespread reach and essential protocols

Spanning an impressive network of more than 800 petrol stations, the initiative is slated to run continuously until August 31. The regulatory focus is squarely on everyday consumers, commercial transport operators, and casual motorists. Given the extreme temperatures that define the Emirati summer, vehicles and fuel delivery systems are placed under significant environmental stress. Consequently, the campaign delivers precise, targeted awareness messages that demand strict adherence to established refuelling procedures. The core directives are unequivocal: drivers must completely switch off their engines before a fuel nozzle is even lifted. Furthermore, there is a strict prohibition against the improper use of mobile phones and any form of smoking near the dispensers, successfully eliminating potential ignition sources that could trigger catastrophic and life-threatening incidents in the sweltering heat.

Measuring seven years of success

The remarkable longevity of the National Campaign for Security and Safety at Fuel Stations is matched only by its demonstrable, data-driven impact. Over the course of its seven-year history, the initiative has successfully penetrated diverse demographic groups across the nation. Historical outreach data reveals that the campaign's targeted awareness messages have garnered more than 60 million accesses since its inception. More importantly, recent impact assessments demonstrate that public comprehension of gas station safety procedures has surged to an unprecedented 98.5 per cent. These formidable statistics highlight the true efficacy of the public awareness programme, proving that persistent, multi-channel communication can effectively transform standard preventative measures into deeply ingrained, automatic daily habits for millions of road users.

A shared vision for community wellbeing

At the very heart of this multi-year endeavour is a fundamental belief in collective accountability and civic duty. Engineer Sharif Al Olama, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure for Energy and Petroleum Affairs, noted that the initiative has matured into an exemplary national model of public-private synergy. He highlighted that the ongoing collaboration between government regulators and fuel retailers has yielded enduring, positive transformations in public behaviour. Summarising the core philosophy driving the government's steadfast approach, Engineer Al Olama stated: "Prevention is a shared responsibility." By fostering this proactive safety culture, the UAE not only shields individual drivers but also elevates the overall wellbeing of the community, ultimately maintaining a highly secure, resilient, and sustainable environment for all citizens and residents.

• Topic: Industrial
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 20th July 2026
• Year: 2026

The United Arab Emirates highlighted its approach to building a flexible, inclusive and future-ready labour market at the 2026 BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting (LEMM), presenting its experience in using innovation, digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to support workforce development and economic growth

According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, represented the UAE at the meeting, which was hosted by India as part of its 2026 BRICS Chairship.

During the ministerial session, Dr. Al Awar outlined the UAE's labour market model, which is built on collaboration between the government and private sector, supported by agile legislation, technological innovation and investment in AI.

He said strengthening social protection, supporting labour markets, empowering women, developing workforce skills and adopting digital technologies are essential components of resilient, inclusive and sustainable labour markets.

Dr. Al Awar explained that the UAE has developed a labour market that encourages cooperation between the public and private sectors while attracting global talent and maintaining a legislative framework capable of adapting to economic and technological change. He noted that workers from more than 200 nationalities contribute to one of the world's most diverse labour markets.

"This approach has made it possible to achieve remarkable results over the past five years, as the size of the workforce in the private sector more than doubled, the number of registered companies increased by 46%, and women’s participation in the labour market grew by 109%," he explained.

He added that these achievements demonstrate the effectiveness of national policies in supporting employment creation and economic expansion.

AI driving the future of labour markets

Highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence in workforce management, Dr. Al Awar said governments can move beyond service automation by using AI to anticipate labour market demands and improve policy decisions.

"Artificial intelligence offers governments a strategic tool enabling them to transition from automating services to anticipating labour market needs, identifying future skills, enhancing compliance, and supporting data-driven decision-making," Dr. Al Awar continued.

He explained that the UAE is increasingly deploying AI-powered solutions to deliver innovative services for workers and businesses while strengthening predictive labour market analysis and improving government responsiveness.

Digital platforms enhance worker protection

Dr. Al Awar also presented the UAE's digital platforms designed to strengthen worker protection through services covering wage protection, occupational health and safety, and labour dispute resolution. These platforms improve transparency while using predictive analytics and smart monitoring to identify workplace risks and support early intervention.

Addressing the evolution of social protection systems, he said, "The social security ecosystem in the UAE continues to evolve to keep pace with the expansion of modern work settings, particularly digital platform work," he said. "By doing so, it can offer greater opportunities for employment, ensure decent work conditions, reinforce fairness, and provide appropriate protection for all workers."

He further highlighted the importance of investing in skills development, noting that the AI-powered UAE Skills platform helps identify future occupations and align education and training programmes with labour market requirements.

BRICS members adopt joint declaration

Dr. Al Awar also expressed appreciation for India's leadership of the BRICS Group and its organisation of the Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting, emphasising the importance of international cooperation in addressing emerging labour market challenges.

The meeting concluded with member states adopting the Declaration of the BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting, reaffirming cooperation in areas including social protection, skills development, women's economic participation and digital transformation across labour markets.

According to Emirates News Agency (WAM), the UAE welcomed the adoption of the declaration and reaffirmed its commitment to working with fellow BRICS members to develop collaborative solutions that promote resilient, inclusive and sustainable labour markets.