Mounted Patrols: A Modern Public Safety Solution

Mounted Police Issue Over 460 Fines in 2024: Enhancing Public Safety

Dubai's special law enforcement units include mounted police patrols, which play a key role in maintaining public order and reducing crime in 2024. So far this year, they have issued a total of 463 traffic fines during 1,464 patrols across various parts of the city, including industrial areas, tourist attractions, and police jurisdictions.

Why is Mounted Police Needed in the 21st Century?

In a world dominated by modern technology and vehicles, it might seem surprising that a city with one of the world's most advanced infrastructures actively employs mounted police. However, these units can operate effectively in places that traditional police cars cannot access, such as narrow alleys, pedestrian streets, or crowded events.

Mounted patrols not only monitor traffic violations but also participate in crime prevention and detection. They excel at identifying and apprehending suspicious individuals, thanks to their mobility and excellent vantage point from the high saddle.

Highlighted Achievements and Crime Prevention

In 2024, the mounted police not only issued fines but also played an active role in securing sporting events. They maintained order at a total of 38 matches and patrolled to protect sports facilities and surrounding areas.

The effectiveness of the unit is demonstrated by past achievements: in 2022, they arrested 71 wanted individuals, issued 352 fines, and seized 915 vehicles. In a memorable case, two mounted officers followed a suspicious vehicle in the Rashidiya area, leading to the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of tools used for theft and alcoholic beverages.

Comprehensive Coverage – Strategic Deployment

The entire territory of the Emirate of Dubai is covered by mounted units originating from four strategic points, ensuring the possibility of quick intervention throughout the city. Training programs have undergone significant development: in 2024, a total of 2,121 "knights" were trained for various competitions, up from 951 the previous year.

Community Engagement and Therapeutic Programs

The mounted police are not only active in security: as part of community service, they run several therapeutic programs. The "Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy" program involved 36 participants, while the "Therapeutic Training for People of Determination" initiative, implemented in collaboration with local community authorities, provided assistance to 126 participants.

Members of the mounted units possess a wide range of skills, including show jumping, shooting from horseback, technical maintenance, veterinary, and training tasks. This versatility contributes to the police's ability to effectively perform their duties in various situations.

Innovation and Forward-Thinking

With the future of mounted police in mind, a professional session was held on "the future challenges of mounted police." Participants proposed ideas such as the creation of a virtual training center and the application of artificial intelligence to predict horses' health conditions in stables and training grounds. Additionally, the development of a smart stable system is underway, utilizing modern technologies to optimize horse care and facility management.

Summary

Dubai's mounted police are far more than a traditional unit. As an integral part of public safety, they manage to be present in places where other units could not operate effectively. Beyond issuing fines, they play a key role in crime prevention, community services, therapeutic programs, and the introduction of innovative solutions. Dubai's example shows that technological progress and traditional methods can coexist effectively – for the safety of the city and the well-being of its residents.

(Source: Dubai Police statement.)