Overview

This year, the United Arab Emirates and other Middle Eastern countries faced unprecedented flooding, causing significant travel disruption and posing a safety risk to residents. International SOS played a crucial role in safeguarding a global luxury jewellery brand and its employees during this challenging event.

Problem

The sudden and severe flooding impacted transportation networks, with many roads and communities severely restricted. This posed a significant challenge for the client’s employees, some stranded at home, at the airport, or in hotels. Additionally, with water damage impacting properties, the jewellery company needed support in navigating the situation and ensuring the wellbeing of its personnel.

Solution

International SOS' Dubai Assistance Centre, a central hub with expertise in the Middle East, sprang into action . Leveraging its extensive network of resources and real-time information-gathering capabilities, the team provided the client with:

Situational Awareness: Our team kept the client constantly updated on the evolving flood situation, providing critical details on impacted routes and communities. This enabled them to make informed decisions regarding employee safety and business continuity.
Evacuation and Relocation Support: Recognising the limitations of traditional service providers during this crisis, the team secured the support of a trusted regional security partner with specialised capabilities in the UAE. This partner possessed a fleet of 4x4 vehicles and inflatable crafts, allowing for the safe evacuation and relocation of stranded employees to more suitable locations within the UAE.
Accommodation Assistance: Understanding the disruption caused by water damage to employee residences, our operations team facilitated hotel bookings for those most severely impacted. This ensured the continued wellbeing and comfort of the organisation’s personnel during the crisis.
Expert Guidance: With many inquiries regarding property damage, our team expertly connected employees to their respective home insurance providers or community management teams, ensuring they received the most appropriate support for their specific situations.

Impact

International SOS' proactive and comprehensive response to the flooding significantly mitigated the impact on the client. By providing timely information, secure evacuation options, and practical support, the team ensured business continuity and employee wellbeing. The client was able to:

Prioritise Employee Safety: Rapid assessments of the situation allowed for swift decision-making, safeguarding personnel from harm.
Maintain Operational Resilience: Access to reliable transportation and temporary accommodation enabled employees to continue their duties with minimal disruption.
Enhance Brand Reputation: Demonstrating care for employees during a crisis reinforces the brand's commitment to its people and corporate social responsibility.