Major Mariam Al Zaabi, the first Emirati woman to serve as a critical care paramedic with the National Search and Rescue Centre (NSRC), is revolutionizing emergency medical services. Whether navigating treacherous mountain peaks, deep valleys, or open seas, or facilitating swift hospital transfers, Mariam plays a pivotal role in delivering urgent medical care. In an interview during HeliShow Dubai, Major Mariam recounted her exhilarating journey into aerial rescue. “Each day is a new adventure,” she shared with Khaleej Times. “My role involves assisting the sick and injured, ensuring they receive timely transport to hospitals where every moment matters.” Armed with advanced medical equipment and life-saving drugs, she converts helicopters into airborne emergency units, where each decision carries the weight of life and death.
Reflecting on her initial experiences, Mariam said, “When I began two years ago, it was a rush of adrenaline. I was thrilled to finally put my schooling into practice!” She highlighted that while many ground cases are straightforward, the complexities of air ambulance missions are what truly ignite her passion. “It’s remarkable to offer comprehensive aid in the most demanding environments,” she noted. Operating in mountainous areas can be especially perilous. “Picture hovering over rugged terrain where landing is impossible,” she described. “We use ropes to lower patients on stretchers—equipment capable of supporting up to 272kg. It requires utmost precision, particularly if the patient has a neck or back injury. A single misstep could exacerbate their condition.” The thrill of these challenges fuels her dedication, transforming dangerous scenarios into opportunities for heroic life-saving actions.
One of the most poignant moments in her career involved transferring premature infants between hospitals. “Handling children is incredibly intense,” she remarked. “It’s a race against time, and every second is crucial. Those moments remind me of the vital and fulfilling nature of our work.” Communication during flights is a high-stakes endeavor. “I’m continuously in contact with the pilot and hospital staff, orchestrating a smooth transfer. It feels like being part of a perfectly rehearsed symphony where each member plays their role flawlessly,” Mariam explained. Her dedication to excellence is reinforced by regular training and equipment checks, ensuring she’s always prepared for the next emergency.
Mariam holds a Master of Health Sciences from Flinders University in Australia. She began her career in 2021 with the Abu Dhabi Police, quickly transitioning into search and rescue. “I graduated in 2021 and have devoted these two years to mastering critical care in the air,” she disclosed. “While I may be the first Emirati woman in this specific role, there are many Emirati women excelling in paramedic positions, and we’re all setting new standards.” The distinction between paramedics and advanced paramedics is significant in her field. “It’s about education and experience,” she clarified. “Advanced paramedics frequently work alongside doctors in high-stakes situations, where their expertise can be a decisive factor.”
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