The Future of Community and Mobility Week
Next Generation Firefighting Drone - SUHAIL: Innovations designed for the Future
United Arab Emirates
Witness pioneering advancements set to redefine the way firefighting and emergency responses are executed. Presented by Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority (ADCDA), this initiative is at the forefront of emergency response innovation, ensuring state-of-the-art tactical measures and delivering cutting-edge autonomous solutions. Join this transformative effort in creating safer communities.
Recorded video available
Discussion
- Disaster prevention and reconstruction
- Smart cities
| Transmission of simultaneous interpretation | Provided |
|---|---|
| Language of interpretation | English |
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Track Programme
- Time and
Date of
the event -
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2025.05.17[Sat]
2025.05.19[Mon]
09:00 ～ 21:00
(Venue Open 09:00)
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- Venue
- Pavilion
- UAE Pavilion
Programme details
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*Subtitles may not show with multiple languages or overlapping audio.
Reports
【Reflection】
The next-generation firefighting drone “SUHAIL,” developed by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority, impressed many visitors as the world’s first jet-engine powered autonomous firefighting drone. The displayed drone was a prototype half the planned size, with the final version intended to be 2 meters by 2 meters for real fire emergency use.
Key features include eight jet engines enabling vertical takeoff, stable flight control, a high-pressure water hose supplying water continuously, and the ability to spray water up to 35 meters at 145 psi to fight fires. Advanced AI, 3D LIDAR mapping, and computer vision allow obstacle detection and autonomous navigation in challenging environments.
The heat-resistant carbon fiber body with ceramic coating enables operation in temperatures up to 1200°C. The drone’s 100-litre fuel tank supports about 40 minutes of operation, with quick refueling in under 30 seconds.
The demonstration effectively showcased technology’s potential to reduce firefighter risks and enhance safety. While promising, further testing is needed to confirm reliability for practical use.
Overall, the exhibit successfully highlighted the UAE’s leadership in innovative firefighting solutions.
【Post EXPO Initiatives】
Following the exhibition, development and practical application efforts for the SUHAIL drone will continue. Focus will be placed on scaling up the prototype to its full size and improving durability. Flight tests and fire suppression performance evaluations under realistic conditions will be conducted to verify safe and efficient operation.
Enhancements to AI algorithms and 3D mapping accuracy will also be prioritized to enable reliable obstacle avoidance and optimal fire suppression in complex, confined environments. Efforts to extend operational duration and improve refueling efficiency will ensure the drone’s sustained performance during emergency response.
Collaboration with relevant agencies and international partners will be pursued to facilitate the integration of this technology into firefighting protocols, contributing to safer working environments for firefighters.
The aim is to promote global adoption of SUHAIL technology, fostering safer and more resilient communities worldwide.
By continuing to leverage advanced technology, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority seeks to contribute to building safer and stronger societies through innovation in emergency response.
More Information
The Future of Community and Mobility Week
Next Generation Firefighting Drone - SUHAIL: Innovations designed for the Future
Witness pioneering advancements set to redefine the way firefighting and emergency responses are executed. Presented by Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority (ADCDA), this initiative is at the forefront of emergency response innovation, ensuring state-of-the-art tactical measures and delivering cutting-edge autonomous solutions. Join this transformative effort in creating safer communities.
-
2025.05.17[Sat]
09:00～21:00
(Venue Open 09:00)
- Pavilion
- * Programme times and content are subject to change. Any changes will be announced on this website and via the ticket booking system.
- * The schedule is subject to change depending on the organiser's circumstances.
OTHER PROGRAM
The Future of Community and Mobility Week
