DUBAI- Dubai International Airport (DXB) is trialling cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) baggage screening technology aimed at transforming airport security and speeding up passenger checkpoints.
The initiative, led by Dubai Airports and its CEO Paul Griffiths, supports smoother travel without removing liquids or electronics from carry-on luggage.
The AI-powered systems under test at Dubai International reflect a global shift, with similar technologies being adopted across Europe.
According to Griffiths, the enhancements will enable passengers to leave liquids over 100ml and laptops in their bags while passing through security.
Dubai International Airport; Photo- Kgbo; Wikimedia CommonsDubai Airports AI Baggage Screening
Dubai Airports, the operator of DXB and Dubai World Central (DWC), is implementing new screening machines that use advanced AI to inspect both hold and cabin baggage.
The primary objective is to maintain rigorous security standards while significantly improving passenger flow. The technology is designed to detect and analyze items at a molecular level, which can streamline screening procedures and enhance accuracy.
CEO Paul Griffiths explained that AI’s role will go beyond basic imaging by enabling intelligent profiling of bag contents.
“We are already installing new machinery into both hold baggage screening and passenger baggage screening, which means that laptops and liquids can stay in bags,” Griffiths stated.
He added, “The next step is to use AI to profile some of the things that are in customer luggage, and that will make the security checkpoints even quicker.”
According to Gulf News, the new AI tools promise not only speed but also consistency and reliability, vital qualities in high-volume travel environments like DXB.
DXB has experienced continuous growth, recording 46 million passengers in the first half of 2025, a 2.3% increase from the same period in 2024. From April to June alone, the airport handled 22.5 million passengers, marking a 3.1% rise.
Despite this growth, no major physical expansions have occurred recently. Instead, Dubai Airports is prioritizing technology to enhance operational efficiency.
With projections indicating 96 million passengers by the end of 2025 and a forecast of reaching the 100 million mark by the end of 2026, the move toward automation and AI-driven processes becomes essential.
These efforts are also in line with the future transition to the new terminal in Dubai South, where all operations will eventually be relocated.
Photo: Dubai International Airport, Terminal 2Future of AI in Security Screening
The CEO emphasized the long-term impact of AI in aviation security. Future systems will scan luggage at a molecular level, using algorithms to identify threats or contraband swiftly and precisely.
“AI making that decision, I think, will be quicker, faster, more reliable, and, of course, doesn’t need to take holidays or a break,” Griffiths noted.
The trial systems, provided under a contract with Smiths Detection and overseen by Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), are currently delivering faster and more reliable screening outcomes.
While no exact rollout date is confirmed, Griffiths stated that initial tests have been “very successful.”
Photo: Dubai International AirportPassenger Experience and Efficiency
The integration of AI systems is expected to make airport security more frictionless and passenger-friendly.
By allowing travelers to keep electronics and liquids in their bags, the technology reduces checkpoint congestion and wait times.
Dubai’s approach demonstrates how airports can leverage innovation to meet rising demand while maintaining security excellence. These measures are especially critical at DXB, the world’s busiest international airport, where efficiency directly influences global travel flows.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
Dubai Airport CEO Wants to Expand Further in India
The post Dubai Airport Trials New AI Baggage Screening to Speedup Security appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
