Dubai Airport Security: New Era by 2026

Faster Security Checks at Dubai Airport: New Era by Late 2026

Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world's busiest international airports, is on the brink of a new technological milestone. By the end of 2026, travelers will say goodbye to the practice of removing laptops and liquids from carry-ons, as the security check process is set to change completely. The goal: faster, smoother, and stress-free travel for everyone.

New Technology in Security Checks

Dubai's airports are currently testing state-of-the-art scanners and AI-based systems that will allow passengers to pass through security without needing to remove laptops, perfumes, or liquids over 100 ml from their carry-ons. These systems are set to be gradually implemented across all three DXB terminals by the end of 2026.

The technology is provided by Smiths Detection, which was awarded the contract by the Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects in May 2025. The new system's key feature is high-resolution 3D imaging, enabling accurate and secure inspection of bag contents without the need to remove any items.

Record Traffic Demands Quick Responses

In the first half of 2025, Dubai International Airport served 46 million passengers, a 2.3% increase from the same period the previous year. The second quarter saw 22.5 million passengers pass through the terminals, and in April alone, 8 million travelers were recorded — the airport's busiest April on record.

This steadily increasing traffic reflects that DXB is not just a gateway to the world but also an innovation hub where technological advancements go hand in hand with enhancing passenger experiences.

What Does This Mean for Passengers?

The introduction of the new system marks a leap not just in convenience but also in time-saving. Passengers won't spend time in crowded lines sorting electronic devices or liquids onto separate trays. This is especially significant for those traveling for business frequently or with young children or elderly family members.

The airport is currently testing the new system at Terminal 3, which is exclusively used by a single airline. This allows them to trial the technology in real-world conditions and fine-tune any potential issues before wide-scale implementation.

Full System Upgrade: Replacement of 140 Devices

The project is massive in scale, involving the replacement of around 140 hand-held devices. This not only represents logistical but also infrastructural challenges, as the new machines require different placement, energy supply, and network integration. The execution is therefore phased, with a final target date of the end of 2026.

Artificial Intelligence in Airport Operations

In addition to security checks, Dubai's airport is introducing further AI-based solutions. The goal with these developments is to reduce aircraft ground handling times and increase operational efficiency. AI can provide more accurate predictions about passenger flows, optimize baggage handling, and even maintenance cycles.

The system can recognize when and where human intervention is needed, allowing staff to be more effectively allocated, avoiding overload and unnecessary wait times.

Beginning of a New Era

The developments in Dubai exemplify how a large, complex infrastructure can be gradually and purposefully transformed to meet future demands. The clear objective behind these technological advances is to provide the best possible passenger experience while maintaining, if not enhancing, security levels.

These innovations not only strengthen Dubai airport's standing on the international stage but also set an example for other airports on how to blend technology, a passenger-friendly approach, and efficiency.

Summary

In the coming years, Dubai International Airport will undergo a dramatic transformation. The revolutionary change in carry-on inspection processes will eliminate the need for unpacking laptops and liquids, reducing not only transit times but also travel-related stress. Amidst growing passenger traffic, these advancements are crucial for the airport to remain at the forefront globally.

Frequent flyers through Dubai will soon experience the comfort of technological progress: fewer lines, quicker transition, more peace. This isn't a dream but the near future reality.

(Source of the article: Announcement by Dubai International Airport (DXB).)