Dubai Police, dnata launch high-tech cargo screening hub at DXB
Advanced technology to streamline cargo handling across Dubai International Airport
DUBAI – dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, has unveiled a centralised screening control room at its Dubai International Airport (DXB) cargo facility, developed in partnership with Dubai Police.
The hub marks a major step in the digital transformation of air cargo operations, combining real-time automation with enhanced security oversight.
From a single high-tech command centre, Dubai Police officers can now remotely operate and monitor six X-ray screening machines across dnata’s warehouse. Each machine is integrated with One Cargo, dnata’s digital cargo management system, which automates key operational functions, enabling instant data sharing, streamlined workflows, and faster decision-making.
“This project is a milestone in dnata’s journey towards smarter, more efficient cargo handling,” said Guillaume Crozier, dnata’s Chief Cargo Officer. “Through close collaboration with Dubai Police, we’ve introduced a model that strengthens security, boosts efficiency, and reflects Dubai’s commitment to innovation.”
Smarter, faster, safer
Previously, cargo screening was conducted across multiple warehouse locations, resulting in higher resource use and reduced efficiency. The new centralised approach consolidates all processes into one hub, reducing screening time and improving throughput by around 3 percent annually.
dnata serves more than 120 airline customers and handles on average 60,000 tonnes of cargo monthly at DXB. Between April 2024 and March 2025, dnata processed over 1 million tonnes of cargo across its DXB and DWC operations – the highest annual volume ever, representing year-on-year growth of approximately 30 per cent.
This surge reflects Dubai’s growing logistics sector. Rising e-commerce demand, a growing regional consumer population, and Dubai’s strategic position as a global transit hub are driving cargo volumes to record levels.
The new system reduces manual touchpoints, enables advanced analytics, and optimises resource use, cutting unnecessary cargo movement and fuel consumption within the facility.
Model of collaboration
The centralised control room was jointly designed by dnata and Dubai Police to support both primary and secondary command functions. It features advanced monitoring interfaces, live imaging, and automated reporting tools that ensure traceability throughout the screening process.
“Dubai’s success as a global hub comes from a shared commitment between public and private partners,” Crozier added. “This collaboration with Dubai Police reflects that spirit – leveraging technology and trust to create a strong cargo ecosystem that keeps the city’s trade moving efficiently.”
Driving innovation
The control room forms part of dnata’s broader initiative to modernise cargo operations through data, automation, and design thinking. Across its Dubai facilities, the company is testing autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to move shipments safely and efficiently, reducing forklift activity and improving warehouse space utilisation.
In addition, dnata is trialling automated dimensioning and load-optimisation tools that capture the exact size and weight of every shipment. This allows teams to maximise space inside Unit Load Devices (ULDs), reduce waste, and plan precise, data-driven cargo flows.
“Behind every piece of technology we adopt are the people who make it work,” Crozier said. “Our teams on the ground are the driving force behind this transformation – using new tools to move cargo more securely and intelligently than ever before.”