Dubai Police has taken a significant leap in modernising public services by opening a new Smart Police Station (SPS) in Dragon Mart. With this move, Dubai further strengthens its status as a global leader in AI-driven governance, offering residents and visitors 24/7 access to fully automated, human-free policing services—now across 27 locations.
The smart Police Station concept: Fully automated, accessible, and sustainable
Smart Police Stations (SPS) are a first-of-their-kind innovation in the Middle East. These self-service, unmanned stations operate entirely without physical police personnel. Accessible 24/7, they provide a fast, contactless, and secure alternative to traditional policing setups.Each SPS enables users to complete essential police services digitally—via a simple, secure process that begins with ID verification using either an Emirates ID (for residents) or a passport (for visitors), followed by mobile number authentication via SMS. For services requiring interaction, users are connected through a video interface to an on-duty officer, with on-site access to facilities like scanners and printers to complete paperwork.Once a transaction is completed, users receive a reference number via SMS and receipt, allowing for easy tracking as requests are routed to the appropriate police departments for further action.Services are accessible in seven languages—Arabic, English, Spanish, French, German, Russian, and Chinese—reflecting Dubai’s multicultural population and making processes user-friendly for both locals and international visitors.
A wide array of services across four major categories
Dubai’s SPSs offer a broad suite of 45 fully digital services, organised under four main categories:Criminal Services
- File complaints (e.g., bounced cheques, labour issues, trafficking)
- Request home security surveillance
- Use the “Police Eye” system to report suspicious activity or follow up on reports
- Access victim support resources
Traffic Services
- Reissue traffic accident reports
- Apply for vehicle colour change approvals
- Obtain traffic-status certificates
- Pay traffic fines
Certificates & Permits
- Apply for lost-item certificates or police clearance (Good Conduct) certificates
- Obtain permits including corpse entry, night-work, road-closure
- Request official documents like “To Whom It May Concern” or clearance certificates
Community Services
- Register for tourist or event security services
- Connect via “Leaders at Your Service” for community feedback
- View job openings within Dubai Police
- Use heart patient emergency support
- Submit found items or search for lost belongings
Strategic growth: Network expansion and international attention
Since launching the world’s first SPS in City Walk in 2017, Dubai has continuously expanded its smart policing infrastructure. The network now includes 27 fully operational SPS locations—ranging from central commercial areas to suburban and residential districts.Current SPS locations include:
- City Walk, La Mer, Dubai Design District, Al Seef, Palm Jumeirah
- Arabian Ranches, Al Barsha Police Station, Jebel Ali Police Station
- Al Muraqqabat Police Station, Dubai Silicon Oasis, DAFZA, Expo SPS
- Suburban and rural outposts like Hatta, Al Eyas, Al Lesaily, Al Khawaneej
- The latest addition: Dragon Mart SPS
In 2018, a walk-in model of SPS was introduced at Arabian Ranches to expand accessibility. By 2023, plans were set in motion for a floating SPS at the World Islands, showcasing the innovative trajectory of Dubai’s policing model.Dubai’s SPS framework has drawn global attention, with police commanders from several countries studying its implementation as a future model for digitised public security services.
Efficiency, sustainability, and alignment with UAE’s AI strategy
The SPS initiative directly supports the UAE’s national artificial intelligence strategy, which aims to future-proof government systems, increase digital readiness, and enhance public service efficiency.Under the directives of Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, the rollout of smart police stations is being actively expanded to cover commercial and residential zones across the emirate.Major General Khalid Nasser Al Razooqi, Director of the General Department of Artificial Intelligence at Dubai Police, emphasised that these smart centres are a critical part of Dubai’s vision to become the world’s smartest city. He noted that digital transactions now account for 89.6% of all police service interactions—a testament to public adoption and operational efficiency.The impact of SPS stations on sustainability is significant:
- 100% digital operations with zero paper usage
- Remote work capabilities and AI integration for operations
- Dhs60 million saved
- 97% reduction in energy consumption
- Over 260 tonnes of carbon emissions reduced per SPS per year, totaling more than 5,800 tonnes annually across the network