Dubai Police deploys drones to tackle oil spills from the air

Dubai: Dubai Police is using drones and satellite connected technology to detect, track and respond to marine pollution, providing specialised teams with faster and more flexible ways to assess and tackle oil spills. The technologies were showcased at the Dubai Environment Conference and Exhibition 2026 (DECE), held at Grand Hyatt Hotel Dubai from September 7 to 8, where Dubai Police presented a range of innovative projects developed to support the work of its Marine Pollution Control Centre. The solutions demonstrate how technology can reduce the time needed to assess environmental incidents, support faster decision making and help specialist teams determine the resources required before responding at sea. A drone that collects samples Among the technologies showcased is a sampling drone, developed by the Marine Pollution Control Centre in cooperation with the Drone Centre. Instead of immediately sending a boat to investigate every reported incident, the drone can travel to the location and collect samples to determine whether pollution is present and provide an initial assessment of the situation. The information can then help teams decide whether boats and other equipment need to be deployed, supporting faster and more efficient decision making. Taking oil spill response to the air Dubai Police also showcased a large drone designed to spray dispersant on oil spills. The aircraft can carry approximately 40 litres of dispersant and can be deployed particularly in locations that are difficult for boats to access. Using the drone gives response teams greater flexibility in reaching affected areas and allows them to act more quickly when dealing with marine pollution incidents. Following an oil spill by satellite The third technology presented was a specialised marine buoy designed to track oil spills. Connected to satellites, the buoy can continuously transmit its location as it follows the movement of an oil spill. This enables specialist teams to monitor the spill’s direction and movement and helps them locate it at different times as conditions change. Technology supporting marine protection Dubai Police’s participation in the conference and exhibition also provides an opportunity to exchange expertise with organisations specialising in environmental protection and demonstrate how smart technologies can strengthen environmental emergency response. The projects form part of Dubai Police’s efforts to improve operational readiness and efficiency in responding to marine pollution incidents while contributing to the protection of the marine environment and natural resources.