Dnata And Dubai Police Launch A Centralised Cargo Screening Hub At DXB

dnata has launched a centralised screening control room at its Dubai International airport (DXB) cargo facility, created with Dubai Police, bringing X-ray checks into one digital hub. The system combines real-time monitoring, automation and enhanced security oversight, aiming to speed cargo screening and support Dubai’s role as a major trade gateway.

From the new command room, Dubai Police officers remotely manage six X-ray screening machines spread across dnata’s warehouse. Each machine links directly to One Cargo, dnata’s digital cargo management platform, which automates core operational tasks. This integration supports instant data exchange, coordinated workflows and quicker decisions during cargo handling and security checks.

The screening control room was jointly designed by dnata and Dubai Police to handle both primary and backup command roles. It features advanced display interfaces, live X-ray imaging, and automated reporting tools. These functions provide traceability at every screening stage and help ensure each shipment’s security history is recorded in a consistent, auditable way.

Guillaume Crozier, dnata’s Chief Cargo Officer, said: "Through close collaboration with Dubai Police, we’ve introduced a model that strengthens security, boosts efficiency, and reflects Dubai’s commitment to innovation." Previously, screening took place at several warehouse points. That set-up required more resources and created duplicated tasks, which reduced overall efficiency across the operation.

The move to a single high-tech hub consolidates all screening processes. This reduces average screening time and improves throughput by around 3 percent each year. Fewer manual interventions are required, which supports more consistent performance and reduces delays during peak periods at Dubai International airport’s cargo facilities.

dnata serves more than 120 airline customers at DXB and manages about 60,000 tonnes of cargo each month at the airport. Between April 2024 and March 2025, dnata reports handling over 1 million tonnes of cargo across its DXB and DWC operations, which represents year-on-year growth of around 30 percent.

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dnata cargo innovation, automation and warehouse technology

The centralised screening system also cuts unnecessary cargo movement inside the warehouse, which lowers fuel use for internal vehicles. Reduced manual touchpoints and better data capture enable more advanced analytics, helping dnata plan staffing, equipment deployment and cargo routing with greater precision and less waste across the facility.

The new control room forms part of dnata’s broader programme to redesign cargo operations using data, automation and user-centred design. Across Dubai locations, dnata is trialling autonomous mobile robots that can move shipments across the warehouse floor, aiming to reduce forklift usage and make better use of available space.

At the same time, dnata is testing automated dimensioning and load-planning tools that rely on sensors and algorithms to record each shipment’s exact size and weight. This information is used to maximise loading inside Unit Load Devices, reduce unused capacity, and support more accurate, data-driven cargo flows through DXB and DWC terminals.

Crozier highlighted the role of dnata staff, stating: "Dubai’s success as a global hub comes from a shared commitment between public and private partners," and 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." Crozier also said: "Behind every piece of technology we adopt are the people who make it work," and continued: "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."

With inputs from WAM