Dubai Police secure 95.2 million passengers as AI powers next phase of airport security

Dubai: Dubai Police secured the journeys of 95.2 million passengers and processed more than 86.75 million pieces of baggage through Dubai airports in 2025, as the force continued to expand the use of artificial intelligence, smart technologies and advanced security solutions. Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, said the continued development of Dubai airports' security ecosystem remains a key priority, supporting passenger growth while enhancing the travel experience and reinforcing Dubai's position as a global model for security, service quality and operational efficiency. Al Marri made the remarks during his annual inspection of the General Department of Airport Security, where he reviewed strategic and operational performance indicators for the department. Passenger and baggage security During 2025, the General Department of Airport Security secured the movement of 95.2 million passengers through Dubai airports, reflecting continued growth in passenger traffic and the scale of security operations required to maintain safety and efficiency. Dubai Police also secured more than 86.75 million pieces of baggage through an integrated operational system combining security procedures with modern technologies. Al Marri said maintaining the highest levels of security and safety requires continuous development of security operations, investment in technology and human capabilities, and strengthening operational readiness. AI and smart security systems During the inspection, Al Marri reviewed advanced security systems deployed throughout the passenger journey, from airport entry to departure. The systems include AI-powered technologies supporting passenger screening, unattended baggage detection and handling, and the analysis of camera feeds and visual data, alongside other smart solutions designed to enhance monitoring, analysis and rapid response capabilities. He called for wider adoption of artificial intelligence across security operations to boost efficiency, accelerate procedures and support decision-making, adding that such technologies strengthen proactive policing and help Dubai prepare for future developments in aviation security. Nine development projects Al Marri also reviewed nine development projects being implemented by the General Department of Airport Security to enhance the passenger journey and streamline procedures from airport entry through departure. The projects are designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce processing times and facilitate smoother passenger movement through the integration of smart technologies and innovative solutions. He stressed that passengers must remain at the centre of service development, with technology and data used to anticipate their needs and deliver faster and more efficient services. Continuous improvement and compliance The department reported that it had identified and completed 27 improvement opportunities, achieving a 100% completion rate. The initiatives form part of a continuous improvement strategy aimed at enhancing service quality and the passenger experience. The General Department of Airport Security also achieved 100% compliance with national and international civil aviation security standards in internal and external audit reports for the seventh consecutive year. Al Marri praised the achievement, describing it as a reflection of the professionalism of airport security personnel and their commitment to maintaining the highest global standards. Investing in people Dubai Police continued investing in employee development, with approximately 4,542 personnel receiving training during 2025 through specialised programmes designed to enhance skills, improve readiness and strengthen the passenger experience. The department recorded 96% employee happiness and a 100% employee motivation rate. Al Marri said investment in human talent remains a cornerstone of sustainable security excellence and stressed the importance of equipping employees with the latest technologies and tools required for future security operations. Dubai's global role Al Marri said Dubai has established itself among the world's leading cities in security, aviation, tourism and services, adding that maintaining this position requires continuous innovation and an integrated approach that keeps pace with the emirate's growth. “Dubai airports are among the emirate's most important gateways to the world, and the experience passengers have from the moment they arrive at the airport is an essential part of the image Dubai presents as a global city built on security, efficiency, innovation and quality of life,” he said. He added that the role of the General Department of Airport Security extends beyond security alone, making it a key contributor to strengthening Dubai's competitiveness and reinforcing the confidence of millions of travellers in its services. At the conclusion of the inspection, Al Marri toured several airport facilities, includ