Dubai Police Officers Strengthen Community Trust Through Multilingual Outreach
Dubai Police officers Sergeant Omar Muslim Aflatoon and First Corporal Ahmed Mohammed Salem have been recognized for their exceptional efforts in fostering community relations through multilingual communication. Their work with the Positive Spirit Council has allowed them to connect with residents from diverse backgrounds, enhancing safety and trust in one of the world’s most multicultural cities.
Sergeant Omar, who has served in the Dubai Police since 1989, has utilized a multitude of languages while on duty. His conversations range from Arabic and English to Urdu and Bengali, and he even employs basic phrases in Tagalog, Malayalam, and sign language to assist those in need. First Corporal Ahmed, who joined the police force in 2006, mirrors this approach by communicating in Arabic, English, Hindi, and German, particularly when responding to emergency calls at the Command and Control Centre.
The ability to converse in various languages is not merely a skill for these officers; it is a vital tool for building trust within the community. Their recent recognition by Dubai Police highlights their significant contributions to community outreach and awareness initiatives, which aim to educate residents about the role of the police in maintaining public safety.
Building Trust
In a city as diverse as Dubai, effective policing necessitates regular interaction with individuals from various nationalities. For Sergeant Omar, growing up in such an environment naturally led to his multilingual capabilities. He noted that while he primarily spoke Arabic in school, many of his friends were from India and Pakistan, which influenced his language skills.
Inspired by his father, who also served in the Dubai Police, Sergeant Omar aspired to wear the uniform himself. He began his career in the Criminal Investigation Department at Al Muraqqabat Police Station before transitioning to the traffic department, where he has been active since 2004. As part of the Positive Spirit Council, he conducts awareness lectures in multiple languages, emphasizing the importance of communication in easing residents’ anxieties when approaching law enforcement.
Sergeant Omar expressed his commitment to making interactions as comfortable as possible. He often employs humor to dispel the notion that police officers are unapproachable, stating that the Dubai Police are known for their friendly demeanor.
Speaking Calmly in a Crisis
First Corporal Ahmed’s journey into law enforcement began at a young age, fulfilling a lifelong dream when he joined the Dubai Police. His early exposure to the Hindi language through Indian films and friendships with Indian and Pakistani peers laid the groundwork for his multilingual skills. He further enhanced his language abilities by completing a one-year German course, enabling him to assist German-speaking residents during emergencies.
In his role at the Command and Control Centre, First Corporal Ahmed coordinates emergency responses and dispatches necessary services. He emphasized the importance of learning enough of a language to facilitate basic conversations, especially during high-stress situations.
Working as a Team
The camaraderie between Sergeant Omar and First Corporal Ahmed extends beyond their professional duties. Both officers discovered that their fathers were close friends, which has strengthened their bond over the years. They support each other during community outreach events organized by the Positive Spirit Council, which aim to break down barriers between the police and the public.
Sergeant Omar noted that many residents feel intimidated by police uniforms, but when officers engage in casual attire during outreach events, community members are more willing to approach them with their concerns. This initiative has proven effective in addressing a wide range of issues, from traffic fines to legal inquiries.
Keeping Dubai Safe, Together
First Corporal Ahmed highlighted the significance of providing clear guidance to residents regarding emergency services. He frequently educates the public on when to call 999 for emergencies and 901 for non-emergency inquiries. His recent public awareness video, aimed at promoting safety during regional tensions, received widespread attention, emphasizing the police’s commitment to community welfare.
Both officers underscored the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and the community to ensure safety. First Corporal Ahmed stated that it is crucial for residents to feel confident in reporting suspicious activities without fear.
A Shared Responsibility
The officers believe that fostering mutual respect between the police and the community is essential for maintaining public safety. Sergeant Omar often shares a saying in Urdu, emphasizing that effective community policing requires cooperation between law enforcement and residents.
The Positive Spirit Council, launched by Dubai Police in 2017, serves as a platform for promoting safety and social cohesion across Dubai. This initiative brings together residents through various programs aimed at enhancing community engagement and addressing negative behaviors in neighborhoods.
For more information on the Positive Spirit Council and its initiatives, visit Emirates247.
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Published on 2026-07-29 16:36:00 • By the Editorial Desk
