Passengers flying through Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) can soon expect to clear immigration in seconds, thanks to a new AI-powered smart corridor that speeds up the process 10 times faster than traditional smart gates at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

The announcement was made during The Airport Show in Dubai, where officials showcased what has been dubbed “the airport of the future.” Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) highlighted that the upcoming passenger experience at DWC will be fully automated, contactless, and tailored to different traveller needs, including special services for mothers, children, and elderly passengers.

In addition to smart immigration tunnels, travellers can look forward to a digitised journey from the moment they book their flights. Through a dedicated app, passengers can purchase tickets, shop duty-free, and even experience the airport in the metaverse before arriving.

Concierge robots to assist passengers

Once at the airport, autonomous robots will handle baggage drop-offs. Luggage will be weighed and collected from the vehicle by self-service bag-drop robots, while concierge robots greet and assist passengers. A smart traffic system will track vehicles heading to the airport, alerting airlines to incoming travellers.

Inside the terminal, immersive experiences and robotic assistance will continue. Passengers can enjoy cafes, lounges, shopping, and interactive zones for children, with delivery robots bringing purchased items directly to their lounge seats or boarding gates. 

Home delivery of luggage

Instead of traditional conveyor belts, biometric-enabled kiosks will be used for baggage claim, and luggage delivery to one’s home will be available via autonomous vehicles.

The airport will feature eight smaller, interconnected terminals, which will be linked by underground trains and serviced by autonomous transport.

India’s premier Arm Wrestling tournament, Pro Panja League, marked a significant milestone as it hosted its first-ever international event, Pro Panja UAE Cup, at the vibrant city of Dubai on April 19th at the India Club.

The event saw some of India’s best ArmWrestlers take on major athletes from the UAE, Kuwait and Pakistan. The matches were sanctioned by the Dubai Sports Council and were technically overseen by the Emirates Body Building and Fitness Federation.

Mr Omar Ali from the Ministry of Sports, Mr Faisal Alzabi, Head of Emirates Body Building and Fitness Federation and Mr Bharat Chachare, CEO of India Club graced the event as chief guests. Also present were Actor and Co-Founder of the Pro Panja League, Mr. Parvinn Dabass and Bollywood star and President of the People’s ArmWrestling Federation India, Mrs. Preeti Jhangiani.

In the first match, Talal Ali of Bahrain enjoyed a dominant 3-0 win over Arjun Menon of India. Next, Prasad Kanhangad of UAE beat compatriot Ramboo 3-0. India’s Umesh Kattuparambil and Asker Ali defeated Ameer Alturkumani of Kuwait and Ali Sehi of the UAE 3-0, respectively.

Lastly, in the highly anticipated clash between India’s Mazahir Saidu and Umer Awan of Pakistan, the former prevailed 3-0. After the crucial win, an elated Mazahir said, “It was an amazing experience competing in Pro Panja League’s inaugural International event. This was an important match for me because I was competing against a Pakistani ArmWrestler. India vs Pakistan is the biggest rivalry in sports and getting a win for India was truly special.”

After winning his match against Arjun Menon, Bahraini ArmWrestler Talal Ali called out Asker Ali for a match. Talal is the current Bahrain National Champion, three-time Arab Champion and the GCC Champion. Asker Ali accepted his challenge after winning his match.

After the successful event, Parvinn Dabass stated, “Couldn’t be happier with the welcome Pro Panja League has received here in Dubai. Seeing Indian ArmWrestlers compete with international stars was truly a special moment for me and I would like to thank India Club for being such a grand host and the Pro Panja UAE Cup is going to become a regular fixture on the International ArmWrestling Calendar based in the UAE.”

Preeti Jhanghiani spoke on similar lines and said, “ This event is a testament to the sport’s growing popularity and we can’t wait to bring more such international events on an even larger scale to the fans. The energy in Dubai was electric and such a reception motivates us to grow the sport even more and dream bigger.”

The UAE is set to resume air travel with Syria, according to a statement issued by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Monday.

The announcement marks a significant step in restoring connectivity between the two nations, as efforts are currently underway to complete the necessary technical and regulatory procedures required to relaunch commercial flights. 

The GCAA confirmed that joint coordination is in progress with its Syrian counterparts to facilitate the resumption of air traffic in a way that enhances travel and trade.

“This move comes as part of the UAE’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and fostering connectivity that supports economic and humanitarian exchange,” the authority said in a statement.

Once operational, the reinstated air routes are expected to significantly ease passenger movement between the UAE and Syria while also boosting cargo traffic and trade flows. The return of direct flights will offer a convenient travel option for thousands of residents and nationals with ties to Syria, as well as business professionals and logistics operators.

Although specific details regarding flight schedules, routes, and airline operators have yet to be announced, the GCAA noted that updates would follow once final approvals are granted and logistics are confirmed.

The development follows a broader trend of regional engagement and reflects the UAE’s efforts to rebuild diplomatic and economic bridges across the region.

Airlines operating in the UAE are expected to reveal individual plans to service Syrian destinations, subject to regulatory clearance and market demand.

(Source: Wam)