The National Early Warning System project was started in 2017 in line with NCEMA’s new strategic plan (2017-2021). The project is divided into different stages. In the first phase, which was in 2017, NCEMA was able with its strategic partners from different sectors of the governmental sector (TRA) and the mobile operations (Etisalat and Du) to complete the stage and use the first means of dissemination (Mobile phones), through the use of advanced technologies and systems.

The National Early Warning System (EWS) is a set of procedures, policies and technologies, together, focus on the wellbeing and safety of all residents in the UAE, including the visitors.  This is achieved through effective and fast public warning.  The importance of EWS lies in the following main objectives:

1.    Preserve lives and property by reducing the impact of emergency crises and disasters, by reaching as many people as possible to warn them of the potential danger or threat through various means of disseminations in a timely manner.

2.    The governance of the EWS throughout the country and all the government agencies and institutions in the UAE for the proper coordination in the process of warning and dissemination and to ensure the effectiveness of public response and interaction.

3.    Ensure the accuracy and speed of issuance of warnings through the activation of integrated electronic systems.

4.    Supporting the emergency management system in the UAE in all the phases of an emergency.

5.    Strengthening the status of the UAE and its classification in the global indicators of readiness.

The Public’s Role and Responsibility

The response capabilities of the public through effective acknowledgement of the warning alerts and following the instructions given in them, is the most important factor in preserving and protecting lives during emergencies.