Dubai: Setting a new record, the General Department of Airport Security at Dubai Police, in collaboration with its partners, successfully ensured the safe travel of 92.3 million passengers traveling through and transiting at Dubai International Airport in 2024 for the eleventh consecutive year. It also secured 2.88 million tons of air cargo with a high level of security, demonstrating its operational readiness, professionalism, and leadership in global civil aviation security.

His Excellency Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, emphasized that the General Department of Airport Security serves as a premier model for specialized security performance. “It features a comprehensive operational system that leverages modern technologies, highly qualified personnel, and extensive experience, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most advanced and professional security agencies within Dubai Police. This system ensured the secure and efficient movement of millions of passengers and air cargo over the past year,” he continued.

Al Marri further noted that Dubai International Airport embodies Dubai's vision of becoming a global hub for civil aviation, bolstered by its state-of-the-art infrastructure and efficient operations. He emphasized that it has transformed into a significant meeting point between East and West and a key driver of global economic growth, achieving consistent record numbers in international travel and cargo despite global challenges and changes.

Al Marri confirmed that Dubai Police has prioritized airport security for many years by implementing innovative strategies and leveraging smart systems to ensure the highest levels of safety and comfort for travelers. He underscored that these initiatives are aligned with national and international standards for civil aviation security, reflecting Dubai Police's commitment to enhancing security and sustainability at one of the world’s most vital facilities.

This statement was made during his inspection visit to the General Department of Airport Security, part of the annual inspection program for general departments and police stations.

He was accompanied by His Excellency Major General Harib Al Shamsi, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police for Criminal Sector Affairs; His Excellency Major General Marwan Jalfar, Assistant Commandant for Ports Affairs; and other senior officials, including Brigadier Expert Hamid Al Hashimi, Director of the General Department of Airport Security; his deputy Brigadier Hamad bin Dylan Al Mazrouei; Brigadier Dr. Ibrahim bin Sebaa, Deputy Director of the General Department of Excellence and Pioneering; Brigadier Ahmed Al Muhairi, Director of the Inspection and Monitoring Department; and Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Abdulrazak Abdulrahim, Head of the Inspection Section, along with several other senior officers.

In terms of institutional performance, the General Department of Airport Security has achieved an outstanding 100% on the strategic performance indicator for the fourth consecutive year. This success is attributed to the completion of 92 strategic, key, and operational indicators, which demonstrate the efficiency of its comprehensive security system and the effectiveness of its field and technical plans in enhancing air navigation security and safety.

Furthermore, the Department has attained 100% compliance with national and international civil aviation security standards in both internal and external audit reports for the fourth year in a row. This accomplishment reflects a robust institutional commitment to the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the requirements of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Achievements
During the visit, Al Marri was briefed on the impressive accomplishments of the Dubai Civil Aviation Security Center, which stands as a regional and global leader in training and qualifying specialized personnel in aviation security. These achievements reflected significant milestones and international accreditations that bolster Dubai Police's reputation as a premier security institution worldwide.

The Center has proudly obtained three prestigious international accreditations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and Airports Council International (ACI). Additionally, it has secured three national accreditations from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA). Moreover, the Center has achieved five international technical accreditations from leading global companies specializing in security inspection systems.

In addition, the Center employs 79 highly qualified trainers who adhere to international security standards, including 31 specialists in security inspection devices, 18 experts in assisting individuals with determination, and 4 specialists in hazardous materials. Additionally, it features 5 internationally certified trainers recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The Center is also equipped with 5 state-of-the-art technical laboratories designed for training inspectors on security screening devices. It adopts 9 ICAO-accredited training programs and fulfills ISO-certified procedures for planning, implementation, and evaluation. Furthermore, it utilizes an advanced smart program called Alert to assess security detectors in real-time during operations.

In 2024, the Center trained 42,451 employees through the Smart Training Platform. It also qualified 2,844 security inspectors and 293 personnel from external organizations, while delivering knowledge dissemination programs to over 23,164 employees.

In addition, the Center features a fully equipped training facility with the latest resources and collaborates with six strategic partners to enhance expertise sharing. This partnership has garnered international recognition from ICAO as the best training center for exceptional performance in aviation security.

12,718 Diverse Seizures
Last year, the Department recorded 12,718 diverse seizures, including prohibited items handled in accordance with established security procedures. Additionally, it secured 35 external events related to inspection and field security operations across various venues.

Specialized Strategy (2025 – 2033)
The Department has outlined its specialized strategy for 2025–2033, which aligns with the strategies of Dubai Police and the broader goals of the state and emirate. This strategy focuses on enhancing national security within the aviation sector and ensuring comprehensive preparedness for the forthcoming Al Maktoum International Airport project. It aims to develop an integrated security system and smart infrastructure while training personnel to meet global standards that adapt to technological advancements in civil aviation security.

At the end of the visit, Al Marri commended the efforts of the General Department, including its directors of sub-departments, employees, and field personnel. He emphasized their crucial roles in fostering a safe environment at airports, encouraging them to propose initiatives and suggestions that enhance security operations and promote sustainability, reaffirming that aviation security is a national priority within the police framework. Additionally, he noted that Dubai Police will continue to advance its smart security systems and programs to keep pace with the rapid growth of the global aviation sector, ensuring that Dubai airports remain a global benchmark for security, leadership, and sustainability.