Law enforcement and crisis management representatives recently convened at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, donning advanced virtual reality headsets, to partake in the inaugural regional and global virtual training exercise hosted in the Metaverse on Wednesday.
Abdullah Juma Al Kaabi from the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) envisaged a future where the lines between virtual and real-world training become indistinguishable. He highlighted the transformative potential of the Metaverse, stating, “Imagine a future where we cannot discern between virtual reality and real-life scenarios. This exercise offered us a preview of what lies ahead.” He underscored that while many link the Metaverse with gaming, it holds substantial promise in critical sectors such as emergency management. Al Kaabi noted, “The Metaverse offers an unparalleled opportunity to prepare for any crisis realistically, ensuring our systems are forward-thinking and equipped to handle challenges.”
The exercise involved numerous federal and local entities, including the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), Abu Dhabi Police, and Civil Defence Authority. Their collaborative effort signifies a unified push to bolster the UAE's preparedness for intricate crises. The virtual exercise was meticulously crafted to immerse teams in a series of emergency incidents, ranging from chemical to radiological and nuclear emergencies. Participants navigated this comprehensive digital environment seamlessly, making swift decisions and coordinating effectively across various agencies.
During the event, Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasized the necessity of adapting to the digital era. He noted, “The Metaverse is integral to today’s life, and we must align with this transformation.” Al Olama referenced the successful utilization of virtual platforms during Expo 2020, where virtual visitors outnumbered physical attendees. “This experience highlighted the urgency of developing new capabilities in response to emerging technologies,” he added. Al Olama also underscored the global scale of Metaverse users, stating that nearly half a billion users exist worldwide, with over 51% being children under the age of 13. He remarked, “The Metaverse presents a singular opportunity to elevate public awareness and safeguard community members,” stressing the importance of initiatives that not only benefit users but also educate them about potential hazards.
Ali Saeed Al Neyadi, Chairman of NCEMA, emphasized the strategic significance of the Metaverse Crisis Exercise, stating, “This initiative marks a qualitative leap in leveraging advanced technology to enhance our readiness. It underscores our dedication to innovation and effective collaboration.” He expressed optimism about the exercise’s potential outcomes, aimed at refining emergency response protocols and fortifying national security.
