Fourteen Indian sailors rescued after ship crashes into rocks in Dubai

Rescue operation launched after vessel suffers engine failure during stormy weather

Maritime police rescued 14 crew stranded during rough seas in Dubai. Courtesy Dubai Police.

Fourteen sailors have been brought to safety after being left stranded in rough seas when their ship's engine failed during high winds in Dubai.

Police launched an air-and-sea rescue operation after a distress call was received at 6.14am on Wednesday.

The Khadeeja 7 crashed into rocks as stormy conditions hit Deira Islands, off Bur Dubai, with water quickly flooding into the ship.

The Indian crew was rescued after a police operation lasting 35 minutes.

The Indian Consulate in Dubai praised Dubai Police for their life-saving efforts.

Lieutenant Colonel Ali Al Naqbi, head of maritime rescue at Dubai Police, said the ship was battered by strong winds and high waves at the same its engine malfunctioned.

“The crew were left with no control over the large vessel which crashed into the rocks of the wave barrier at Deira Island,” he said.

A police helicopter located the ship but rescue boats were unable to reach it due to the high tide.

Rescuers connected ropes from the wave barrier breakwater to the ship to guide the men to safety one at a time.

Their belongings were retrieved and they received medical check-ups.