The United Arab Emirates has introduced an innovative global framework aimed at comprehensively measuring the long-term impacts of fires beyond traditional firefighting metrics such as response time and incident containment. The initiative, known as the Global Fire Incident Footprint Framework, was unveiled at a specialized forum held in Dubai and organized by the Federal Authority for Ambulance and Civil Defence.
The framework, developed with input from more than 70 international experts and leaders, assesses fires’ direct and indirect effects on human health, the environment, the economy, critical infrastructure, and public trust. Ahmed Bin Ali Al Sayegh, UAE Minister of Health and Prevention and Chairman of the authority, emphasized the country's commitment to building an integrated ambulance and civil defence system centered around preparedness, technology, and adoption of global best practices. He highlighted that emergency response efforts must now include a broader understanding of the wider societal, economic, and environmental consequences of fire incidents.
Designed around four key dimensions—Economic Impact Footprint, Human and Environmental Footprint, Critical Systems Footprint, and Trust and Global Reputation Footprint—the framework seeks to provide a holistic view of how fires affect individuals, communities, essential services, and economic sectors over time. This approach shifts focus from immediate operational indicators to the sustained repercussions for affected areas.
Lieutenant Colonel Dr Essa Ahmed Al Mutawa, Director of the General Department of Artificial Intelligence and Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Smart Services at Dubai Civil Defence, explained that the framework extends analysis beyond casualties and response efficiency to consider the broader footprint of fires on the economy, environment, infrastructure, and national image. He cited a study carried out by his team which found that three major fire incidents—two in California and one during Australia’s Black Summer—resulted in government costs nearing half a trillion dollars. The pollution generated affected approximately seven million people and was linked to premature deaths.
Dr Al Mutawa also noted that pollution from fires accounts for about 21 percent of global pollution, more than emissions from cars, factories, and boats combined. He pointed out the far-reaching effects of fires, with some incidents capable of disrupting flights and key infrastructure even beyond the fire zone. The framework is intended as a guide for fire and safety organizations worldwide and will be disseminated to civil defence bodies globally, with further findings due within the next year.
In conjunction with the framework announcement, the forum launched the “997 Leadership Programme,” targeting the development of future firefighting leaders. Major General Dr Jassim Mohammed Al Marzouqi, Director General of the Federal Authority for Ambulance and Civil Defence, stated that the program is designed to prepare young officers for leadership roles in civil defence. The authority also benefits from input via a youth council comprised of individuals under 30, encouraging fresh perspectives in strategy and operations.
Additionally, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed with Georgetown University during the forum, focusing on leadership development, crisis management, scientific research, and capacity building in emergency services. The UAE’s efforts reflect a growing recognition of the multifaceted and enduring impacts of fire incidents, aiming to enhance global resilience through improved assessment, leadership, and innovation.