First Warrant Officer Asma Obaid Saif Humaidan Al Zaabi has made history as the first woman in the UAE to serve as an ammunition and explosives technician. As one of the leading female figures in the Ministry of Interior (MoI), she has distinguished herself by blending military service, technical innovation, and athletic excellence.
While speaking to the MoI’s magazine 999, she said “I chose the military field because of my deep belief that women can contribute greatly to the Ministry of Interior (MoI). My work as an ammunition and explosives technician at the Weapons and Explosives Directorate makes me proud, especially since it requires precise skills and faces unconventional challenges.”
Pioneering Innovation in Security Technologies
Since joining the police force in 2006, Asma has made consistent efforts to stay ahead in her field through rigorous training and embracing new technologies. One of her key achievements has been integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into bomb detection.
“I began my journey in police work in 2006 and have continuously developed myself through training in the latest technologies, such as the use of artificial intelligence in detecting explosives. This step has not only enhanced my efficiency, but reduced the risks facing those working in this field as well,” she told 999.
Her notable innovations in the security field include:
Her career began in the Planning, Development and Secretariat Department at the Ras Al Khaimah Police Training Institute. She later moved to the Organized Crimes Department, working on high-stakes and complex investigations. Her assignments continued to expand to frontline security work at ports and airports, within the Inspection and Explosive Disposal Department, and the Weapons and Explosives Licensing Department.
This extensive experience has enabled Asma to develop a comprehensive understanding of national security operations and become one of the MoI’s most respected officers in the field.
Recognition and Future Ambitions
Over the years, Asma has received multiple prestigious awards, reflecting both her professional excellence and innovation:
These accolades underscore her commitment and the impact of her contributions in some of the most demanding areas of law enforcement and public safety.
Looking ahead, Asma has clear goals. She dreams of establishing an Innovation Centre to serve the security sector and enhance the capabilities of MoI personnel. Furthermore, she aspires to create the first all-female explosives team in the Middle East.
“I seek to transfer my expertise to the next generation and be part of achieving a quantum leap in the field of security on the regional level,” she said.
While speaking to the MoI’s magazine 999, she said “I chose the military field because of my deep belief that women can contribute greatly to the Ministry of Interior (MoI). My work as an ammunition and explosives technician at the Weapons and Explosives Directorate makes me proud, especially since it requires precise skills and faces unconventional challenges.”
Pioneering Innovation in Security Technologies
Since joining the police force in 2006, Asma has made consistent efforts to stay ahead in her field through rigorous training and embracing new technologies. One of her key achievements has been integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into bomb detection.
“I began my journey in police work in 2006 and have continuously developed myself through training in the latest technologies, such as the use of artificial intelligence in detecting explosives. This step has not only enhanced my efficiency, but reduced the risks facing those working in this field as well,” she told 999.
Her notable innovations in the security field include:
- A vehicle equipped with X-ray and self-analysis technology for explosive detection
- Virtual reality glasses to assist in inspection and bomb detection tasks
- A security monitoring system for tracking wanted individuals, considered a breakthrough in surveillance
- The design of the smart logo currently used across MoI’s internal systems
- A Career Spanning Diverse Security Departments
Her career began in the Planning, Development and Secretariat Department at the Ras Al Khaimah Police Training Institute. She later moved to the Organized Crimes Department, working on high-stakes and complex investigations. Her assignments continued to expand to frontline security work at ports and airports, within the Inspection and Explosive Disposal Department, and the Weapons and Explosives Licensing Department.
This extensive experience has enabled Asma to develop a comprehensive understanding of national security operations and become one of the MoI’s most respected officers in the field.
Recognition and Future Ambitions
Over the years, Asma has received multiple prestigious awards, reflecting both her professional excellence and innovation:
- Minister of Interior Award (2019)
- Heroic Work Award and Rescue Medal (2010)
- Scientific Research Awards in 2012, 2015, and 2017
- Director General’s Award for Implemented Proposals (2020)
- Selected as one of MoI’s top 10 female shooters
These accolades underscore her commitment and the impact of her contributions in some of the most demanding areas of law enforcement and public safety.
Looking ahead, Asma has clear goals. She dreams of establishing an Innovation Centre to serve the security sector and enhance the capabilities of MoI personnel. Furthermore, she aspires to create the first all-female explosives team in the Middle East.
“I seek to transfer my expertise to the next generation and be part of achieving a quantum leap in the field of security on the regional level,” she said.
You may also like
Sub Lt Poonia becomes first woman to be inducted into fighter stream of naval aviation
Indonesia: Classical Indian dance drama 'Shiva Tandava' steals the show at Bali Festival
Jockey retires after being warned one more concussion could kill him
Weight loss with Coca-Cola? Popular soft drink claims it now supports fat management
TRAI Invites Comments On Regulatory Framework For Sale Of Foreign SIM/eSIMs In M2M/IoT Devices For Export