This combined Rescue Diver and Emergency First Response programme teaches the practical skills needed to recognise, prevent, and manage diving emergencies. Across structured e-learning, open-water exercises, and realistic scenarios, you will develop the confidence to respond effectively both underwater and at the surface. The course is physically and mentally demanding, but hugely rewarding as it strengthens your own safety and your ability to assist others.
Course duration: 2–3 days
Session duration: 2–3 hours
Daily start times: 9:00, 12:00, 15:00
Number of exercises: 10 rescue exercises + 2 scenarios
Minimum age: 12 years
Location: Dubai and Fujairah
Total time commitment: 4–7 days including online study
The course begins with PADI e-learning covering rescue theory, diver stress, accident management, equipment considerations, and risk prevention strategies. Once you complete the required chapters, your instructor reviews essential concepts and prepares you for the practical exercises. The EFR portion focuses on first aid, CPR, and emergency care, giving you the foundational response skills needed before the in-water work begins.
In-water sessions include 10 structured rescue exercises, taught first in controlled conditions before being applied in open water. You will learn how to approach distressed divers safely, stabilise breathing equipment, provide buoyancy support, perform searches, and manage exits from the water. Each skill is broken down into clear steps to ensure repeatable technique and confidence under pressure.
The final stage consists of two full rescue scenarios that simulate realistic emergencies. You will be expected to assess the scene, coordinate the response, and apply the skills learned during the course. Feedback is provided after each scenario to refine decision-making and technique. Upon successful completion, you’ll hold the Rescue Diver certification—a recognised milestone for any diver aiming to progress to leadership levels.
Training takes place across Dubai and Fujairah, with each location chosen based on the specific skills being taught. Dubai’s controlled entry points provide ideal conditions for initial exercises such as assisting a tired diver or practising tow methods. These environments allow instructors to break down techniques into manageable steps.
Fujairah is used for more complex scenarios due to its varied topography and deeper conditions. This allows you to practise missing-diver searches, deeper responses, and multi-step rescue sequences in an environment that closely resembles real-world situations.
Participants must hold an Adventure Diver or Junior Adventure Diver certification (or an equivalent qualification from a recognised agency). A valid Emergency First Response (EFR) certification is also required, or you may add the EFR module as part of your booking.
Good general fitness and confidence in the water are necessary, as rescue scenarios involve swimming, lifting, and towing. Completing the e-learning portion before your first session is essential for progressing through the practical components.
This centre has extensive experience teaching divers at advanced levels, ensuring safety and professionalism remain central throughout training. Instructors introduce complex rescue skills in a structured way, providing clear demonstrations and tailored feedback to help each diver progress steadily.
A strong emphasis on responsibility and teamwork creates an environment where students learn to assess risk, support their dive buddies, and respond calmly to demanding situations. With clean facilities, reliable equipment, and a friendly atmosphere, you’ll feel supported as you develop one of the most valuable qualifications in recreational diving.
About the centre
The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
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