Dubai launches digital licensing system to boost airport security

Dubai is taking another big step in making its airports safer and smarter. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), together with Dubai Police, has launched a Digital Security Screener Licensing System.

This new system is designed to make sure airport security staff are well trained, certified, and ready to protect millions of passengers passing through Dubai’s airports every year. It also shows how Dubai is working to stay ahead of global standards and secure its position as one of the world’s top aviation hubs.

Airports worldwide are under pressure to manage growing passenger traffic while keeping security tight. Dubai, home to some of the busiest airports in the world, understands this challenge better than most. By introducing a fully digital process for licensing airport screeners, Dubai is setting a new benchmark for aviation security.

Why a Digital Licensing System Matters

In the past, licensing airport security screeners involved manual paperwork and long procedures. This often slowed things down and made it harder to keep up with changing global security requirements.

The new digital licensing system changes all that. It:

• Speeds up the certification process for security staff.
• Ensures staff meet UAE national regulations and international aviation standards.
• Uses technology to improve accuracy, transparency, and efficiency.

This means passengers passing through Dubai airports can feel more confident knowing that the people responsible for screening are certified using the latest digital tools.

Supporting Dubai’s Economic Goals

This initiative also ties into the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a long-term plan that aims to double Dubai’s economy by 2033. Aviation plays a huge role in Dubai’s growth. By strengthening security, the city is not only protecting travelers but also making sure its aviation sector continues to thrive.

The digital licensing system helps by:

• Making airport operations smoother.
• Building trust among international airlines and travelers.
• Supporting Dubai’s image as a safe and smart global city.
• Ensuring security is sustainable in the long run.

When security is strong and efficient, it directly supports tourism, trade, and investment—three major drivers of Dubai’s economy.

Senior Leaders at the Launch

The launch of this new system was attended by top officials from both the DCAA and Dubai Police, showing how important this step is for the city.

Key attendees included:

• Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director General of DCAA
• Major General Harib Al Shamsi, Acting Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police
• Obaid Al Nuaimi, Executive Director of Aviation Security and Accident Investigation Sector
• Ahmad Belqaizi, Executive Director of Aviation Safety and Environment Sector
• Major General Marwan Julfar, Acting Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Port Affairs
• Brigadier Hamed Al Hashmi, Acting Director of the General Department of Airport Security

Their presence highlighted how Dubai’s leadership is united in building the future of aviation security.

Words From Dubai Civil Aviation Authority

During the launch, Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director General of DCAA, said that the project is a big milestone for Dubai’s aviation industry.

He explained that the system “shows our strong commitment to following the highest security standards.”

According to him, the system brings together smart technologies, efficiency, and sustainability to make Dubai’s airports even safer. He also highlighted the importance of working closely with Dubai Police, which ensures that the project reflects the Government of Dubai’s forward-looking vision.

Dubai Police: Innovation and Readiness

Major General Harib Al Shamsi, Acting Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, also spoke at the launch. He stressed that constant innovation is necessary if Dubai is to remain a world leader in aviation.

“Innovation in the security system is essential to keep pace with the fast changes in the aviation industry,” he said.

He explained that Dubai Police and DCAA will continue to:

• Improve technical systems.
• Provide advanced training for staff.
• Follow global best practices.

This teamwork ensures Dubai is always ready for challenges and can provide a security model that other countries may follow.

New Technologies Already in Action

At the event, participants also got a chance to see some of the advanced systems already in use at Dubai’s airports. These included:

• AI-powered security checks to make screenings faster and more accurate.
• Digital databases to store staff licensing information.
• Automated training tools that help screeners learn more efficiently.
• Sustainability-focused technologies that support Dubai’s green vision.

These innovations show how Dubai is combining technology, safety, and sustainability to deliver world-class aviation services.

Aviation Security and Dubai’s Growth

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of travelers each month. Aviation contributes a large share to Dubai’s GDP, creating jobs, attracting tourists, and boosting trade.

With this level of activity, strong security is more important than ever. The digital licensing system is not just about protecting passengers—it also supports the future growth of Dubai’s economy.

By making sure screeners are trained and certified to the highest standards, Dubai strengthens its reputation as a city where travelers feel safe and welcome.

Building International Confidence

Every traveler wants to know they are safe when flying. Airlines and global regulators also need to trust the airports they work with.

Dubai’s new system boosts this confidence by showing that:

• Security is managed with the latest technology.
• Staff are certified quickly and effectively.
• Dubai is serious about meeting international standards.

This global trust is a big reason why Dubai continues to attract millions of passengers and remains a favorite hub for airlines around the world.

A Model for the Future

What makes Dubai stand out is not only that it invests in new systems, but also that it looks ahead. The Digital Security Screener Licensing System is designed with the future in mind. It makes sure the city can handle:

• Growing passenger traffic.
• More complex global security threats.
• The need for sustainable and efficient operations.

By doing this, Dubai creates a future-proof aviation security model that other cities may study and adopt.