The 8th edition of the Airport Security Middle East conference is scheduled to take place from May 6 to 8, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This event will address the current challenges, emerging threats, and future requirements of airport security. It will be held as a co-located conference during the 24th edition of the Airport Show.

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who serves as the President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and the Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the conference aims to connect leaders in the airport industry and key decision-makers. This platform will facilitate discussions on deploying innovative products to enhance airport security. It also promises premium networking and business opportunities for stakeholders from the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

The Airport Show is expected to attract over 120 exhibitors from more than 20 countries, including notable country pavilions from Germany and Italy, as well as over 150 buyers from over 30 countries. According to Airports Council International (ACI), global airport investment is projected to reach approximately US$2.4 billion by 2040. As of the third quarter of 2024, the total pipeline of airport projects worldwide was valued at US$589.1 billion, with the Middle East and Africa holding US$75.5 billion and South Asia US$34 billion.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology is transforming airport security by introducing proactive and intelligent solutions. Airports are increasingly adopting digital and cloud-based access control systems. AI-driven security applications enhance the monitoring of real-time video feeds, analyze data to reduce false alarms, and enable rapid responses to potential threats.

Smart security systems that utilize computer vision algorithms are capable of detecting motion, while behavioral analytics and threat intelligence platforms continuously scrutinize camera feeds for suspicious activities. Colonel Engineer Expert Marwan Mohammad Singel, Director of Dubai Civil Aviation Security Center at Dubai Police, emphasized the importance of technology in ensuring the security and safety of airport facilities. He stated that investing in top-tier security technology, combined with well-trained staff, is crucial for maintaining smooth passenger movements.

In 2024, Dubai successfully secured 92.3 million passengers across its two international airports, maintaining its status as the world’s top airport by international passenger numbers for the past decade. May Ismail, Event Manager at RX, noted that airport security systems must continuously adapt to meet evolving challenges and threats. She highlighted that the Airport Show will showcase a diverse range of modern security products, many of which will make their debut in the Middle East.

Furthermore, Kamil Al Awadi, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, forecasted that passenger traffic is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 3.9 percent over the next 20 years, concluding in 2043.