Dubai beaches step up lifeguard stations to prevent drownings

Last year, 24 people drowned in Dubai, police said.

DUBAI // Lifeguards will be stationed every 100 meters along some of the emirate’s most popular beaches to boost public safety and prevent drownings.

Col Abdullah Al Maziud, director of the Ports Police Station, announced the plan to station lifeguards along the emirate’s coastline from Jumeriah Beach Residence to the border with Sharjah at Al Mamzar.

Last year, 24 people drowned in Dubai, Col Al Maziud told Al Ittihad, the Arabic language sister paper of The National.

There were 17 incidents at Umm Suqeim beach, three at Al Mamzar and one drowning each at JBR, Mina Seyahi, Al Mamzar Park and Dubai Creek beaches.

Both male and female lifeguards will be hired, said Col Al Maziud.