Sharjah marine rescuers - in pictures

  • Marine crews from Sharjah Civil Defence demonstrate rapid response during a sea rescue drill in the emirate. All photos: Ahmed Ramzan / The National
    Marine crews from Sharjah Civil Defence demonstrate rapid response during a sea rescue drill in the emirate. All photos: Ahmed Ramzan / The National
  • Maj Mahmoud Al Zarouni, director of Al Khalidiya Civil Defence Station and head of the Marine Rescue Team, takes part in a maritime rescue exercise
    Maj Mahmoud Al Zarouni, director of Al Khalidiya Civil Defence Station and head of the Marine Rescue Team, takes part in a maritime rescue exercise
  • In 2025, the team dealt with 23 potential drowning incidents, averting any deaths
    In 2025, the team dealt with 23 potential drowning incidents, averting any deaths
  • The crew has also responded to a number of jet-ski collisions
    The crew has also responded to a number of jet-ski collisions
  • Maj Al Zarouni said: 'Quickly responding is essential in our work and this is why we conduct regular patrolling'
    Maj Al Zarouni said: 'Quickly responding is essential in our work and this is why we conduct regular patrolling'
  • The team recently added three new rescue boats to its fleet, equipped with sonar, underwater cameras and thermal imaging
    The team recently added three new rescue boats to its fleet, equipped with sonar, underwater cameras and thermal imaging
  • The team operates alongside National Ambulance medics, Sharjah Police and air wing rescue teams to ensure comprehensive coverage during coastal emergencies
    The team operates alongside National Ambulance medics, Sharjah Police and air wing rescue teams to ensure comprehensive coverage during coastal emergencies
  • Much of the team’s work focuses on reckless jet-ski behaviour in Al Mamzar Lagoon, where rental companies attract large crowds, especially during weekends and holidays
    Much of the team’s work focuses on reckless jet-ski behaviour in Al Mamzar Lagoon, where rental companies attract large crowds, especially during weekends and holidays
  • During this year’s rainwater flooding in Sharjah, crews used small aluminium rescue boats to reach trapped residents in flooded streets
    During this year’s rainwater flooding in Sharjah, crews used small aluminium rescue boats to reach trapped residents in flooded streets
  • Rescuers showcase co-ordinated operations and readiness to handle maritime emergencies
    Rescuers showcase co-ordinated operations and readiness to handle maritime emergencies