Heroic rescue: UAE National Guard airlifts hiker in 70s from Ras Al Khaimah mountains

Ras Al Khaimah: In a dramatic and life-saving operation, the UAE National Guard, in coordination with Ras Al Khaimah Police, successfully airlifted an elderly man to safety from the rugged mountains of Ras Al Khaimah on Saturday.

The man, in his seventies, was found in a state of severe exhaustion and dehydration after a challenging hike in the mountainous terrain. Battling intense fatigue and soaring temperatures, he was unable to continue or make his way back down.

Once authorities received the emergency alert, the National Search and Rescue Center quickly pinpointed the man's remote location — an area inaccessible by land. A rescue helicopter was dispatched immediately, reaching the man and transporting him swiftly to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care.

The successful mission highlights the readiness and coordination of the UAE’s emergency response forces. The National Guard and Ras Al Khaimah Police have since urged all mountain-goers and nature enthusiasts to follow safety guidelines, stay hydrated, and be mindful of weather conditions, especially during the hotter months.

Officials also reminded the public to report any emergency situations by calling the National Search and Rescue hotline at 995, emphasising that timely alerts can make all the difference in saving lives.