Abu Dhabi deploys 18 smart ambulances to enhance emergency care capabilities

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority (ADCDA) on Thursday, 20 August launched a new fleet of 18 specialised smart ambulances designed to provide hospital-grade care during emergency transport. The vehicles are equipped with advanced medical technology to treat patients with complex needs before they reach a hospital facility. The new fleet includes mobile intensive care units (ICU) fitted with ultrasound systems, infusion pumps, and ventilators. The deployment also features dedicated maternal and neonatal ambulances equipped with integrated incubators and specialised transport units for bariatric patients, featuring loading platforms with a capacity of 350 kilogrammes. Integration with Unified Medical Operations The vehicles are integrated into the Unified Medical Operations Centre (UMOC). This connection allows emergency teams to operate as a continuous care unit, linking on-site responders directly with hospital specialists to manage critical cases in real-time. The move follows an official announcement on Thursday, 20 August by Abu Dhabi health and civil defence leaders to upgrade the emirate's emergency infrastructure. Dr Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the DoH, stated that the initiative aims to ensure the right capabilities are mobilised according to specific patient requirements. Major General Salem Abdullah Al Dhaheri, Director General of ADCDA, noted that the model moves beyond simple patient transport,…