By 2026, passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) will no longer need to carry laptops or liquids during security checks. This is part of a significant upgrade of the airport’s security facilities, making travel easier, faster, and more convenient.
Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports, assured that the process is already in place: “We have a phased process until the end of 2026, as we are phasing out the current hand baggage and held baggage security check systems.” Travelling will be convenient, smooth, and less stressful with this new technology, as you will not need to carry anything in your bag.
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Cutting-Edge Screening Technology
Dubai Airports has begun testing new scanners and AI-powered equipment that will eliminate the need for passengers to remove laptops, perfumes, creams, and liquids over 100 ml from their carry-on luggage.
In May 2025, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects awarded Smiths Detection a contract to deploy these advanced checkpoint systems across all three terminals.
The new scanners will:
- Scan bags with high-resolution 3D scanning without physically removing items.
- Permit passengers to carry electronics and liquids in their bags.
- Reduce processing time and minimize points of hold-up at the security checkpoints.
The technology is currently being trialed at Terminal 3, which is used exclusively by Emirates Airlines.
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Why the Change Matters
Passenger traffic at DXB continues to break records, highlighting the urgent need for better solutions.
- In the first half of 2025, DXB handled 46 million passengers, an increase of 2.3% year-on-year—the busiest first half in its history.
- April 2025 was the busiest April on record, with 8 million passengers passing through.
- In the second quarter alone, the airport served 22.5 million passengers, an increase of 3.1% compared to 2024.
Essa Al Shamsi emphasized the importance of expanding operations: “This project is huge, requiring infrastructure changes as we are replacing around 140 machines. This will take time, but once completed, it will transform the passenger journey at Dubai Airport.”
Beyond Security: AI for Operational Efficiency
In addition to security upgrades, Dubai Airports is also looking at AI-powered systems to improve aircraft turnaround times and increase overall efficiency. These innovations are aimed at ensuring that DXB keeps pace with its growing passenger load and its global reputation as the world’s busiest international hub.
By 2026, security at Dubai International Airport will become faster and more seamless. Laptops and liquids will no longer need to be taken out, so passengers can expect shorter queues, easier checks, and a stress-free start to their journey.