Watch: UAE’s AI-powered patrol car to track visa violators from 10 metres away
Six cameras and facial recognition give officers 360-degree surveillance power
DUBAI – The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has revealed a fully electric patrol car powered by artificial intelligence, built to detect visa and residency violations in real time.
The vehicle, showcased at GITEX Global 2025, can identify individuals through facial recognition up to 10 metres away using six high-resolution cameras strategically positioned for full 360-degree coverage.
While the car runs on AI, it is not driverless. Each vehicle will be manned by an officer who monitors a live dashboard displaying alerts, heat maps, and ID data as the patrol moves. When a match is found, the officer stops to verify the person’s documents directly, keeping the process human but swift.
Intelligent precision
The onboard system connects securely to ICP databases, allowing immediate confirmation of residency or visa status. Predictive technology helps officers prioritise alerts and respond instantly to possible violations.
The car’s design allows uninterrupted operation in extreme weather, including dust storms and high heat, ensuring reliable field performance across all emirates.
Sustainable power
The vehicle’s 680km electric range enables full-day operations on a single charge. It runs entirely on clean energy, combining environmental responsibility with advanced enforcement efficiency.
When will it hit the road?
The first fleet is expected to hit Dubai’s streets in early 2026 before expanding across the UAE.
The project follows a surge in enforcement activity, with more than 32,000 visa violations recorded in the first half of 2025. The ICP says the initiative marks a major leap in real-time field control, blending sustainability, technology, and precision enforcement into one intelligent patrol.