Sheikh Hamdan tours Dubai International Airport, Emirates and police control centre
Aviation teams praised for maintaining efficiency amid global challenges
DUBAI – His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has reaffirmed the pivotal role of Dubai’s aviation sector in connecting global markets and driving economic growth, during a high-level review of operations at Dubai International Airport and Emirates.
Under the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the emirate’s aviation ecosystem continues to serve as a key pillar of international connectivity, supporting both passenger and cargo movement while shaping the future of global air travel.
Sheikh Hamdan commended the performance of teams across Dubai International Airport, Emirates and flydubai, praising their ability to maintain smooth and efficient operations amid evolving global conditions.
Dubai Airport
Accompanied by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan reviewed airport operations, including passenger services provided by Emirates.
During my visit to Dubai International Airport, which has retained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passengers for the twelfth consecutive year, I reviewed operations and passenger services. I also visited the Dubai Police operations centre, where I… pic.twitter.com/D5o45DTzrN
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) April 21, 2026
During the visit, he was briefed on the latest smart technology upgrades aimed at improving operational efficiency, streamlining passenger movement and enhancing traveller comfort. These upgrades include advanced systems designed to expedite procedures and ensure seamless flow across terminals.
Sheikh Hamdan also visited the Dubai Police operations centre, where officials outlined its role in safeguarding the airport and strengthening travel safety through advanced smart services and integrated monitoring systems.
“I am proud of the teams at Dubai Airports, Emirates and flydubai. Our world-class aviation ecosystem continues to maintain smooth, efficient operations amid evolving conditions while ensuring safety, reflecting the resilience and preparedness of Dubai’s systems,” he said.
He added that Dubai Airports remains central to the city’s sustainable growth and its position as a bridge between global markets.
“As we look to the future, Dubai Airports will continue to advance its expansion plans in line with our vision to shape the future of global aviation, driven by our relentless focus on innovation and excellence. We continue to invest in advanced infrastructure and talent to further strengthen Dubai’s position as a vital global gateway connecting people, markets, and opportunities worldwide,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
Emirates
Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed the operations of Emirates Airline, expressing appreciation for the efforts of its teams and acknowledging the carrier’s contribution to strengthening Dubai’s standing as a leading global aviation hub.
Under the leadership of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates currently connects the world to Dubai through a network spanning 123 destinations across 65 countries.
Hamdan bin Mohammed reviews operations at Dubai International Airport, including passenger services provided by Emirates. His Highness was also briefed on ongoing smart technology upgrades to promote efficiency, ensure seamless passenger flow, expedite travel procedures and… pic.twitter.com/ReQR9kpodN
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 21, 2026
The Crown Prince praised the professionalism and commitment shown by the airline’s pilots and cabin crew, commending their ability to consistently deliver the high standards of service and quality long associated with the Emirates brand.
A detailed briefing was also provided on the airline’s Network Operations Control Centre, widely regarded as the nerve centre of Emirates’ global operations.
Officials outlined the centre’s recent upgrades, including the integration of advanced artificial intelligence, high-precision computer vision systems and real-time geospatial mapping technology.
These systems allow the airline to proactively monitor flight movements, weather patterns and international developments, enabling rapid responses to disruptions and supporting efficient operations management.
The upgrades are also designed to improve punctuality for arrivals and departures, while ensuring seamless cargo and logistics coordination across departments.
A milestone year
The review comes as Dubai International Airport reported a milestone performance in 2025, welcoming more than 95 million passengers and retaining its title as the world’s busiest international airport for the twelfth consecutive year.
Total flight movements reached 454,800, marking a 3.3 percent year-on-year increase, reflecting sustained growth in network capacity and operational demand throughout the year.
Hamdan bin Mohammed visits Dubai Police operations centre and was briefed on its role in safeguarding the airport and enhancing travel safety through advanced smart services. pic.twitter.com/NGRYLzJj6A
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 21, 2026
Sheikh Hamdan was accompanied during the visit by Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police; Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism; Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs; and Lieutenant General Awad Hader Al Muhairi, Vice President of Dubai’s State Security Department.