In a pioneering move that underscores Dubai’s commitment to innovation and public safety, the Dubai Police have unveiled plans to launch the Middle East’s first floating Smart Police Station (SPS) by 2026. This groundbreaking initiative is part of a broader AED 2 billion digital transformation strategy aimed at integrating cutting-edge technology within the police force to enhance service delivery across the city.
The announcement was made following directives from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, emphasizing the city’s ambition to lead in smart city innovations. The floating SPS will offer a suite of 27 primary services, such as criminal and traffic report filings, complemented by 33 additional services, including lost item retrieval and certificate requests. These will be available 24/7, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to provide automated, efficient service delivery without human intervention.
Lieutenant Colonel Faisal Al Tamimi, Director of the Assets and Facilities Department at Dubai Police, described the project as a “transformative leap forward” in policing. “The floating SPS is designed to serve the maritime community, offering easy access to police services directly from the water,” he noted. This includes a seamless experience for yacht and boat owners, tailored specifically to their needs, thus ensuring that Dubai’s waterways are safe and well-monitored.
The deployment of the floating SPS aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming the “World’s Smartest and Happiest City.” By reducing dependency on traditional service centers, the station will decrease wait times and streamline operations, enhancing user experience while maintaining high public safety standards.
This initiative also signals Dubai’s role as a global leader in technological innovation within law enforcement. According to a report by the International Data Corporation (IDC), the global smart cities market will reach $2.5 trillion by 2025, and Dubai’s innovations in smart policing set a benchmark for others worldwide. Experts like Dr. Robert Smith, an urban technology analyst, highlighted the significance of such projects, stating, “Dubai’s floating SPS could redefine maritime security management, serving as a model for coastal cities globally.”
Furthermore, the floating SPS will seamlessly integrate with Dubai’s existing network of land-based Smart Police Stations, including drive-thru and walk-in options, ensuring comprehensive accessibility to police services city-wide.
Dubai Police’s strategic embrace of AI, robotics, and automation reflects its wider ambition to pioneer smart city solutions that improve public service accessibility and operational efficiency. As such, the initiative not only enhances the safety and security of Dubai but also propels the city’s reputation as a forward-thinking global hub for smart technology.
The floating Smart Police Station is poised to revolutionize how policing is conducted, both on land and at sea, marking a significant milestone in Dubai’s journey towards a smarter, safer future. As this project unfolds, it promises to set new standards for law enforcement and public service delivery worldwide.
