Focuses on Innovative Airport Security in Upcoming 8th Airport Security Middle East Conference, Dubai
In the bustling city of Dubai, the 8th edition of the Airport Security Middle East conference is set to take place from May 6 to 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event, a significant part of the prestigious 24th Airport Show, aims to tackle the latest developments in airport security technologies, strategic security measures, and collaborative approaches to counter emerging threats in the Middle East aviation sector.
With H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as the patron of the event, over 150 buyers from 30 countries are expected to attend, seeking high-level networking and strategic business opportunities. The conference's focus this year is the integration of AI-driven technologies in airport security, a crucial step towards addressing pressing security challenges, emerging threat scenarios, and future-proofing airport operations.
The Middle East and Africa are expected to account for US$75.5 billion of these investments, with the airport industry in the region experiencing substantial growth in the coming years. Dubai, with two international airports, handled 92.3 million passengers in 2024, maintaining its position as the world's busiest airport for international travel for the tenth consecutive year.
Key focus areas for the conference include enhancing security screening and surveillance technologies at airports, integrating advanced threat detection methods, sharing best practices for emergency response and crisis management, strengthening cooperation among regional and international security agencies, and implementing innovative security infrastructures to maintain the region's status as a safe travel hub.
The conference seeks to deliver improved airport security protocols, the adoption of cutting-edge technology to mitigate risks, and strategic partnerships that bolster the resilience of airports against evolving security threats. Given the UAE’s reputation as a global tourism and transit hub, the event supports ongoing efforts to balance robust security with efficient passenger processing.
The regional outlook for airport investments is promising, supported by IATA's forecast of 3.9% annual passenger traffic growth through 2043. Over 120 exhibitors from more than 20 countries will participate in the event, including national pavilions from Germany and Italy.
Colonel Eng. Expert Marwan Mohammad Singel of Dubai Police emphasised the importance of technology and staff training in ensuring safety and seamless travel. May Ismail, Event Manager at RX, made a note about the airport situation, highlighting the need for continuous innovation and collaboration in ensuring the safety and security of passengers and staff.
The conference aligns with the UAE's broader security posture, as the country ranks as the safest globally in 2025, reflecting effective national security and public safety initiatives. The activation of emergency airport response plans amid rising geopolitical tensions underscores the relevance of strategic security discussions at this event.
The Airport Show gathers key airport industry leaders and decision-makers from across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The Airports Council International predicts global airport investments to reach US$2.4 trillion by 2040, making this conference an essential platform for shaping the future of airport security in the region.
- The conference in Dubai will focus on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in airport security, as a strategic step towards addressing future security challenges.
- Given the economic growth in the Middle East and Africa, over US$75.5 billion is expected to be invested in the airport industry, positioning the region as a key player in airport security and trade.
- With the rise in annual passenger traffic forecasted by IATA and the activation of emergency response plans, the conference will emphasize the importance of continuous innovation, collaboration, and technology in ensuring airport safety and security.
