Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) will soon no longer need to remove laptops or liquids from their bags during security checks, as the airport rolls out next-generation screening systems designed to simplify travel and reduce waiting times.
The new technology, which is being introduced in phases until the end of 2026, will replace the existing baggage screening systems. Essa Al Shamsi, senior vice president for terminal operations at Dubai Airports, confirmed that the upgrade is aimed at making the security process “easier, smoother, and stress-free.”
Dubai Airports is currently testing advanced scanners and artificial intelligence (AI) systems that allow passengers to keep electronics, perfumes, creams, and even liquids over 100ml inside their bags during security checks. The high-resolution 3D imaging provided by these scanners enhances security while significantly cutting processing times.
In May 2025, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects awarded a contract to Smiths Detection to supply and install the cutting-edge checkpoint screening technology across all three terminals. Once fully operational, the system is expected to streamline passenger movement and improve efficiency at the world’s busiest international airport.
“This will make travel much more convenient for passengers using Dubai airport,” Al Shamsi said, noting that the project involves replacing around 140 handheld machines, a large-scale upgrade requiring major infrastructure changes.
The initiative comes as DXB continues to experience record-breaking traffic. The airport handled 46 million passengers in the first half of 2025, a 2.3 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The second quarter alone saw 22.5 million passengers pass through, with April marking the busiest month on record at 8 million travellers.
To accommodate this rapid growth, Dubai Airports is investing in technologies not only to enhance security but also to improve operational efficiency. Al Shamsi revealed that the airport is working on AI-powered systems aimed at reducing aircraft turnaround times, further strengthening DXB’s position as a global hub.
The new scanners are currently undergoing trials at Terminal 3, which is exclusively operated by Emirates Airlines. Once fully implemented, the system will allow passengers to pass through security without the inconvenience of unpacking bags, offering a seamless experience for millions of travellers each year.
With Dubai positioning itself at the forefront of aviation innovation, the move to adopt advanced screening technology highlights the emirate’s commitment to future-ready infrastructure. For travellers, it marks the beginning of a new era where security checks will no longer mean emptying bags, removing laptops, or discarding liquids — but instead, a smoother journey from check-in to boarding.
