Dubai Establishes New Council to Enhance Ports and Border Security

As one of the most important trade and tourism hubs in the Middle East, Dubai plays a pivotal role in international commerce, boasting some of the busiest ports and airports globally. Its strategic geographic position makes it a vital crossroads for the flow of goods and people, necessitating stringent measures for ensuring border security. To enhance the security of its ports, borders, and entry points, Dubai has established the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council. This new body, formed under Decree No. (21) of 2025, is set to be a key player in overseeing and coordinating the emirate’s security efforts, ensuring that Dubai remains a secure yet efficient gateway for trade and travel.

The formation of this council comes at a time when security is a global concern, and the challenges that arise from international trade, travel, and security threats demand a unified and streamlined approach. By consolidating the efforts of key security agencies under one council, Dubai is positioning itself to tackle these challenges head-on. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued this decree to ensure the continued safety and seamless functioning of the city’s ports and borders.

The Leadership of the Council

The newly formed Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council will be chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. A key figure in Dubai’s government and known for his leadership and commitment to the city’s development, Sheikh Mansoor’s appointment emphasizes the significance of the initiative. His leadership will help guide the council in creating cohesive strategies to improve the security of Dubai’s borders, ports, and airspaces, fostering collaboration among multiple government entities.

The role of Vice Chairman will be held by Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, a seasoned figure in the realm of security. Lt. Gen. Al Marri’s expertise and experience in border management and law enforcement will be invaluable in steering the council’s activities, ensuring that both preventive and reactive measures are in place to counter any threats to Dubai’s security.

Alongside Sheikh Mansoor and Lt. Gen. Al Marri, the council will include high-ranking officials from a range of departments that play a role in the city’s security. Representatives from Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, the General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Airports, Dubai Air Navigation Services, the Dubai Maritime Authority, Digital Dubai Authority, and Dubai Municipality will form part of the council. These departments will each designate representatives, nominated by the heads of their respective organizations, ensuring that those who are in the best position to address specific security issues are involved.

The council will also have a Secretary-General, who will play a crucial role in coordinating the activities of the council, ensuring that the different entities work in synergy to achieve the set goals. The Secretary-General will manage the day-to-day operations of the council, focusing on implementing decisions and ensuring smooth coordination between the various agencies involved in securing Dubai’s ports and borders.

Key Objectives of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council

The primary objective of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council is to enhance the security and efficiency of Dubai’s entry points, which include air, sea, and land borders. The council aims to create a unified security strategy that integrates the efforts of all government bodies involved in the security infrastructure, from customs and immigration to law enforcement and digital services.

By establishing this unified approach, the council aims to streamline processes and improve communication between departments, ensuring that security measures are implemented effectively and without unnecessary delays. It will focus on developing standardized protocols for security checks, customs procedures, and border control, with the goal of balancing safety with operational efficiency.

To achieve this, the council will also look into the integration of advanced technological solutions. With rapid technological advancements, Dubai is well-positioned to implement cutting-edge security technologies, such as biometric systems, artificial intelligence (AI), and surveillance systems, to enhance its ability to monitor and assess threats. These technologies will enable faster, more accurate security checks, improve data sharing among departments, and reduce human error, contributing to a smoother experience for both citizens and visitors.

Focus on Collaboration Across Agencies

A core element of the council’s function will be fostering close collaboration among the various governmental agencies responsible for border management. Each agency brings a specific set of skills and expertise to the table, and the council will help to ensure that these efforts are aligned. For instance, Dubai Police will coordinate with Dubai Customs to ensure that both security and customs protocols are applied efficiently, while the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority will work closely with Dubai Airports to ensure that air travel security is continuously improved.

One of the significant benefits of this council is that it will provide a platform for these different agencies to collaborate regularly, share vital information, and avoid redundancy. The synergy between the departments will help in better handling threats and ensuring that any security breaches are detected early and addressed promptly. Joint training programs, regular meetings, and cross-agency exercises will further strengthen inter-agency relationships, enhancing the overall effectiveness of Dubai’s border security strategy.

Furthermore, the council will work towards implementing digital solutions that ensure the smooth functioning of security protocols. The rise of cyber threats means that digital security has become as critical as physical security. The council will focus on safeguarding Dubai’s digital infrastructure, ensuring that systems related to passport processing, customs declarations, and other security systems are protected against cyber-attacks and disruptions.

Coordinating with Federal and International Partners

While the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council will primarily focus on Dubai’s local security concerns, it will also work closely with national and international bodies to ensure a seamless and coordinated approach to border security. The council’s efforts will align with the UAE’s broader national security strategy, which aims to safeguard the country from external and internal threats while maintaining the UAE’s open business environment.

In addition to national coordination, the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council will engage with international partners and agencies to remain in line with global standards. The council will take part in international discussions on border security practices, contributing to the development of best practices in the industry. It will also adapt to new security regulations, responding flexibly to changing global security landscapes and ensuring that Dubai remains compliant with international security agreements.

Strengthening Legal and Regulatory Foundations

Decree No. (21) of 2025 provides the legal framework for the formation and operation of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council. This decree outlines the organizational structure of the council, its responsibilities, and the roles of the various members. The publication of this decree in the Official Gazette also ensures transparency and legal clarity regarding the council’s functions and activities.

By establishing clear legal parameters for the council’s operations, the decree ensures that all security measures will be fully compliant with UAE laws, laying a solid foundation for the successful implementation of security policies and practices. It also provides the legal basis for any future updates or adjustments to the council’s operations as new challenges or technologies emerge.

Looking Ahead: Future Prospects for Dubai’s Security

As Dubai continues to grow in both stature and economic importance, the role of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council will become increasingly significant. The council will continue to adapt and evolve to meet the security needs of the city, ensuring that Dubai remains a safe and prosperous city for its residents and visitors. Its efforts will focus on maintaining the security of Dubai’s borders while fostering efficient and seamless travel and trade.

The formation of the council underlines the UAE’s commitment to ensuring that its security infrastructure keeps pace with its ambitions for growth and development. By embracing new technologies, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, and strengthening ties with national and international partners, Dubai’s ports and borders will remain secure while continuing to support the city’s role as a global economic powerhouse.

With His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed leading the charge, the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council is poised to become a key force in safeguarding the emirate’s borders, setting new standards in security, efficiency, and innovation for the years to come.