The robot, which can reach a speed of 35 Km per hour, or approximately 12 times the speed of a human lifeguard, works by using remote control technology.

Dubai Municipality has launched for the first time in the Middle East a robot as a rescuer on public beaches. The move is one of the latest and most innovative

additions to the Municipality safety system for Dubai beaches.

Alya Al Harmoudi, Director of Environment Department at Dubai Municipality stated that the introduction of this type of technology comes out of the Municipality's keenness on maintaining the security and safety of the beach goers in the emirate of Dubai.

"The move is also in response to the Dubai government directives to keep up with the latest technologies and innovations in this area as well as to ensure that all the necessary requirements and precautions are in place to enhance the rescue operations on the public beaches of Dubai," she said.

The robot, which can reach a speed of 35Kms per hour or approximately 12 times the speed of a human lifeguard, works by using remote control technology.

The robot is about 125 cm tall and can travel up to a distance of more than 130Kms.

It is fitted on an electric pump, which helps to facilitate and accelerate the beach rescue operation.

The robot was designed to withstand the worst climatic conditions as it can be used in the event of high waves or heavy ocean currents that are difficult for the human lifeguard to swim on. It can also save four to five people at the same time.

The robot can float freely as it weighs only 11 kg and is operated by recycled batteries. When the battery is recharged fully, it is sufficient to complete thirty rescue operations and more. It takes from 45 to 90 minutes to recharge the batteries depending on the number of batteries that are carried on the robot.

Lifeguards can also use the robot to deal with the drowning cases at the beach or to rescue boats or jet skis.