After the tragic loss of a close friend in the Al Ain desert, retired police officer Youssef Abdul Karim Mohammed felt a profound sense of urgency to act. “The desert can be beautiful, but it’s also unpredictable and unforgiving. Losing a friend out there showed me something had to change,” said the 43-year-old Emirati. This personal tragedy led him to leverage his experience with the Abu Dhabi Police to establish the Al Ain Desert Rescue Team in 2018, focused on rapid response and rescue operations in the desert.
Initially, Mohammed worked alone, using his vehicle to assist stranded individuals, including tourists and families unfamiliar with the desert’s dangers. “In those early days, it was just me and my car,” he recalled. Driven by his vision, he opened the door for volunteers, expanding his efforts from a solo mission to a well-organized team. “When I opened the door to volunteering, the team grew to 10, and now we’re 20,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of rigorous training for all members.
To join the team, candidates must meet specific criteria, including having a valid UAE driver’s license and a registered, well-maintained vehicle. “Our focus is on readiness and safety,” Mohammed said, highlighting the dedication of volunteers to staying prepared for desert rescues.
The team’s equipment is equally top-notch, featuring advanced tools and emergency gear specifically designed for desert conditions. “Our equipment includes air compressors, high-pressure systems, and specialized tools like air jacks, which are vital for sand extractions,” he explained. Each member is trained to handle a range of challenges, from flat tires to fire emergencies.
The Al Ain Desert Rescue Team has conducted numerous operations across the region. “Our team knows the Al Ain desert very well now,” Mohammed said, explaining how they can locate and assist those in distress using video footage of their surroundings. The team has also extended its efforts beyond Al Ain, participating in rescues across the UAE, including in Ras Al Khaimah during severe weather that caused flash flooding. “We coordinated with the police to navigate flooded roads and evacuate stranded families,” he stated.
Another notable operation occurred during the Al Ghadeer storm in Al Ain, where the team worked tirelessly to rescue vehicles trapped in flooded areas. “The terrain had turned treacherous, and only a team trained for these conditions could handle it,” Mohammed explained.
In addition to rescue missions, the team is committed to keeping Al Ain’s desert landscapes clean and safe. Their “Al Ain Desert is Safe” initiative includes regular volunteer clean-up drives. “We’re committed to more than rescue; we’re here to protect this desert we love,” he said.
Over time, Mohammed’s efforts have garnered recognition, including the Sheikh Sultan Shield and multiple certificates of appreciation. “It’s an honor, but the real reward is the trust we’ve built with the community,” he remarked. The Al Ain Desert Rescue Team has inspired others across the UAE, highlighting the necessity for desert-ready rescue and environmental services.
Reflecting on his journey, Mohammed concluded, “Our mission is about more than just rescue — it’s about making the desert a safer place for everyone. We’ve grown from one person to 20, and maybe in time, we’ll grow even more. But each volunteer here knows it’s about readiness, resilience, and dedication. This isn’t just a job; it’s a responsibility to the people of Al Ain and beyond.”
