Dubai Police Maritime Operations Centre played a crucial role in safeguarding the emirate’s coastline amid heightened regional tensions following the recent US-Iran conflict. Equipped with artificial intelligence, smart surveillance systems and real-time monitoring technology, the centre coordinated emergency responses, strengthened maritime security and ensured uninterrupted activity across Dubai’s waters.
In an exclusive interview with Gulf News, Brigadier Dr Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi, Director of Dubai Police Ports Station, said the AI-powered operations centre became the central command hub for coordinating responses among multiple government agencies and private-sector partners.
AI-Powered Command Centre Coordinates Maritime Security
According to Brigadier Al Suwaidi, the Maritime Operations Centre brought together Dubai Police, the National Guard, DP World, immigration authorities, maritime regulators and security agencies under a unified command structure.
“We worked as one team alongside the relevant authorities, the National Guard, DP World, immigration officials and other partners,” he said.
The operations room received and coordinated all maritime-related reports, including emergencies, security incidents and operational requests, allowing authorities to respond quickly while ensuring uninterrupted maritime activities across Dubai’s coastline.
The centre relies on artificial intelligence, radar systems, smart surveillance cameras and advanced marine scanning technology to monitor Dubai’s territorial waters in real time. The technology also enables officers to detect, locate and recover suspicious objects, further strengthening maritime security.
Private maritime operators also contributed by sharing information from vessels and coastal facilities, expanding the surveillance network and improving situational awareness.
Divers Deployed to Recover Suspicious Objects
Specialist diving teams were mobilised during the period to investigate reports of unidentified debris and suspicious objects found at sea.
Brigadier Al Suwaidi said divers safely recovered materials believed to be linked to drones and other aerial objects before they were examined as part of wider maritime security operations.
The specialised response ensured that potentially hazardous materials were removed without disrupting maritime traffic or public safety.
Round-the-Clock Patrols Ensure Rapid Response
Dubai Police continues to maintain a constant security presence across its coastline through an extensive network of patrol units operating 24 hours a day.
The maritime emergency response system includes:
- 12 sea patrols
- Seven land patrols
- Two beach buggy patrols
- Two foot patrol units
Operating on rotating shifts, these teams respond to vessel breakdowns, marine accidents, criminal incidents and emergency distress calls throughout Dubai’s coastal waters.
Brigadier Al Suwaidi said Dubai Police has also introduced clear performance indicators to measure response times for maritime emergencies.
“In many parts of the world, maritime response times are difficult to measure because conditions vary. We have set clear targets for ourselves and continue to achieve them,” he said.
Rescue Operations Continue to Save Lives
While advanced technology enhances maritime operations, rescue missions remain at the heart of Dubai Police’s work.
Major Saeed Khalifa Al Mazrouei, Head of the General Shift Section, highlighted several successful rescue operations this year, including a recent incident in which tourists were safely rescued after their boat suffered an engine failure at sea.
Police teams also regularly assist stranded boat owners, jet ski riders and other recreational users affected by mechanical failures or adverse weather conditions.
Beach Safety Campaigns Expanded
Dubai Police has also strengthened beach safety initiatives by working closely with tourism and environmental authorities.
Dedicated teams patrol beaches, assist visitors, conduct public awareness campaigns and ensure compliance with swimming regulations and other safety measures.
During New Year’s Eve celebrations, officers reunited seven children who became separated from their families in crowded areas, including a child with special needs who was safely located after wandering away.
Brigadier Al Suwaidi stressed that parental supervision remains essential during large public events.
Drone Technology to Expand Future Operations
Looking ahead, Dubai Police plans to further integrate drone technology into its maritime security strategy.
Drone-box systems have already been installed at selected beaches and island locations to provide faster aerial surveillance, environmental monitoring and emergency assessments.
Officials believe drones will significantly enhance response capabilities while expanding coverage across Dubai’s coastline.
Maritime Safety by the Numbers
Dubai Ports Police reported significant operational activity over the past year, highlighting the scale of its maritime enforcement efforts.
Authorities handled 2,644 reports through the Maritime Operations Room while recording 143 marine accidents and detecting 1,313 marine violations.
Among these were 658 jet ski violations, 636 boat and marine vessel violations, and 19 commercial ship violations.
Inspection teams examined 26 jet ski rental companies, with 24 found in violation. Authorities also seized 63 jet skis for technical inspections, of which 52 failed safety requirements, resulting in 75 enforcement violations.
Common penalties include fines of Dh1,000 for operating a jet ski with an expired licence, failing to wear safety equipment or entering restricted swimming areas, while dangerous behaviour that endangers others can result in fines of Dh2,000.
Dubai Police also reported 100% public safety perception and 100% confidence in walking safely at night across the 13 coastal zones under its responsibility, reflecting the force’s continued focus on protecting lives and ensuring maritime security.
Also Read: US-Iran Conflict Escalates as Strait of Hormuz Tensions
