Imagine passing through Dubai Airport security without removing your laptop or discarding your water bottle — this will soon be the reality for passengers at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports, told Khaleej Times in an interview.
“ We have a phased rollout is underway, with full completion expected by the end of 2026. The upgrade will replace existing hand baggage and hold baggage screening systems, eliminating the need for travelers to remove laptops, perfumes, creams, and liquids over 100ml during airport security checks”.
Advanced AI and 3D Scanners at DXB
Dubai Airport is testing new scanners and artificial intelligence (AI) technology designed to no eliminating the need for traveler items. These scanners of high-resolution 3D imaging allow passengers to keep electronics and liquids inside their bags, making the journey smoother, faster, and stress-free.
Since passengers will no need to remove laptops and liquids over 100ml, Essa Al Shamsi highlighted that “this will make travel more smoother, convenient for passengers at Dubai airport.”
In May 2025, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects awarded a contract to Smiths Detection to install these cutting-edge checkpoint systems across all three terminals of DXB. This step aims to enhance Dubai security, improve operational efficiency, and handle growing passenger traffic more effectively.
Rising Passenger Numbers at Dubai International Airport
With passenger volumes continuously breaking records, the need for smarter solutions is urgent. Dubai International Airport DXB welcomed 46 million travelers in the first half of 2025, a 2.3% increase from the previous year. The second quarter saw 22.5 million guests, while April marked the busiest month on record with 8 million passengers.
These figures highlighted why Dubai Airport is investing in new technologies to maintain seamless passenger flow and deliver world-class services.
Trials Underway at Dubai Airport Terminal 3
The new screening systems are currently being tested at Dubai Airport Terminal 3, used exclusively by Emirates Airlines. The project involves replacing nearly 140 existing machines, requiring significant infrastructure upgrades.
A Seamless Travel Experience for the Future
For millions of passengers traveling through Dubai International Airport DXB, these upgrades will mean:
- No need to take out laptops, tablets, or other electronics at security.
- You can keep liquids over 100ml in your bag, making travel easier.
- Security checks will be faster and smoother, even when it’s very busy.
- Terminals will work more efficiently with the help of AI and smart systems.
Essa Al Shamsi highlights that these changes will create a more seamless experience: “The introduction of this new technology will make travel smoother, more convenient, and stress-free for passengers using Dubai Airport.”
FAQS
1. Will laptop and liquid When checks end at Dubai Airport?
By end of 2026 at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
2. Which terminal is testing the new scanners?
Dubai Airport Terminal 3, used by Emirates Airlines.
3. What technology is being introduced?
AI-powered 3D scanners that allow laptops and liquids to stay in bags.
4. Will security still be safe?
Yes — the new scanners offer higher accuracy than current systems.
