Dubai Police 50th anniversary

Dubai Police 50th anniversary
By Alia Al Theeb, Staff Reporter GULF NEWS

From a one-station police force with 29 members to a 15,000-strong organisation, Dubai Police has grown into one of the most successful forces in the region.

And today marks its 50th anniversary, with celebrations that will continue for 50 days.

Cultural, educational, sports and recreational activities will be held during this period.

Brigadier Jamal Mohammad Khalifa Saqr Al Merri, Deputy Commandant General of Dubai Police, says, "The celebrations include an introduction which will be conveyed through audio, video and written materials.

"A book detailing the establishment of Dubai Police, and the phases it went through, will be released. Dubai Police began operations with just 29 officers in 1956. One of them was Khalifa Bin Daen, who is still in service."

The book comprises, among other topics, a timeline, the achievements of Dubai Police, and developments it witnessed through the years.

The celebrations will be promoted on television and through distribution of print material encouraging the public to participate.

"Today there will be a special military parade in which all the sections of the police, such as cavalry, air wing, anti-riot, explosive materials section, police dogs and various forces will participate," says Brigadier Al Merri.

The parade begins in the morning along Shaikh Zayed Road and everyone is invited to participate. The Dubai Police Air Wing will also be participating - carrying banners promoting the Golden Jubilee.

"This celebration is a way of us saying a 'thank you' to all those who helped and supported Dubai Police and positively participated with it," says Brigadier Al Merri.

During the celebration period, former police officers, including expatriates, who served Dubai Police for 25 years or more, will be honoured. They will receive the Golden Jubilee medal.

As part of the celebrations, Dubai Police will unveil a coin as well as a stamp.

"There will also be congratulatory messages sent via SMS to the public. Etisalat prepaid cards will have sentences such as '50 years of excellence'," he says.

Congratulation cards and gifts will be distributed in places such as petrol stations and shopping malls.

"Bluetooth technology will also be used in sending messages to people in shopping malls, while the new building of the General Headquarter will be illuminated," says Brigadier Al Merri.

Police patrols will tour areas under their jurisdictions in their new uniforms.