Dubai Police takes marine pollution response to the skies with drones and satellite technology

A drone that collects pollution samples, another that sprays oil-spill dispersant and a satellite-linked buoy are among the technologies Dubai Police is showcasing for marine emergencies.

The systems are being presented at the Dubai Environment Conference and Exhibition 2026, held at the Grand Hyatt Dubai from September 7 to 8. They were developed to support the Dubai Police Marine Pollution Control Center and help specialist teams understand an incident before sending personnel and equipment.

The sampling drone, developed by the Marine Pollution Control Center with the Drone Center, can fly to a reported location and collect samples. That initial assessment can show whether pollution is present and help determine the scale of the response, reducing the need to send a boat to every report.

A larger drone can carry about 40 liters of dispersant and spray it over oil spills in areas that boats may struggle to reach. A specialised buoy connected to satellites can move with a spill and continuously transmit its location, allowing teams to monitor its direction and changes as sea and weather conditions evolve.

Dubai Police said its participation in the exhibition also creates an opportunity to exchange expertise with environmental protection organisations and examine how smart technology can improve emergency response and protect Dubai’s marine environment and natural resources.