Dubai airport set to ease security checks with scanners that keep laptops, liquids in bags

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is introducing new-generation security scanners that will allow passengers to leave laptops, liquids and other belongings inside their hand luggage during screening, as part of an ongoing technology upgrade aimed at making security checks quicker and less intrusive. Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths said the new machines are already being installed across the airport as older screening systems are gradually replaced, told Gulf News.

“We’re reinvesting in new technology security machines, so you don’t have to take liquids or laptops out of bags,” Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths told Gulf News. “The whole process is getting slicker, quicker, faster, and more convenient.”

What will change for passengers?

Once the new scanners are operational, passengers will no longer need to routinely remove laptops, liquids and other items from their cabin bags for screening.


The equipment is designed to examine the contents of hand luggage without requiring travellers to unpack it before placing their bags through security.

The latest update indicates that the technology is already being deployed rather than remaining solely at the trial stage.

“Some of the machines are already in,” Griffiths said. “It’s just a gradual, ongoing programme of continuous upgrade.”

He added that the objective was eventually to replace the older equipment across the airport.

“The idea is we’ll replace all of the old technology so that every customer has the same level of convenience,” Griffiths said.

Where is the new security technology being installed?

The upgrade is part of refurbishment work taking place across Dubai International Airport rather than being restricted to a single terminal.

Griffiths said new security equipment is being introduced as part of wider improvements at DXB, including work in Terminal 1 and other sections of the airport.

Concourse B is also undergoing refurbishment, including work on the Hammerhead remote terminal. Terminal 1 is being upgraded with new flooring and additional security lanes.

Why is DXB upgrading its screening systems?

The technology investment forms part of Dubai International Airport’s broader effort to increase efficiency without relying solely on major new infrastructure.

Griffiths has previously pointed to the airport’s growth while operating within its existing infrastructure.

He said improving the efficiency of existing infrastructure would be a key part of the airport’s expansion strategy.

“So trying to make our existing infrastructure more and more efficient is a very, very important part of our growth strategy over the next few years.”

For an airport handling large passenger volumes, the aim is to reduce the time and effort involved at security checkpoints while maintaining the screening process.

He pointed out that passengers would already be able to see some of the new machines and refurbishment work while travelling through the airport.

Griffiths described a future in which passengers can move through the airport with fewer interruptions before reaching their gates.

“You’ll be able to just literally walk into the airport and get your plane, and maybe stop for a coffee or a burger on the way through,” he said.