World Police Summit kicks off in Dubai

With over $100 billion in stolen personal and financial data traded on the dark web in 2024 — a 42 per cent surge in just one year — and ransomware now responsible for a quarter of global cyber insurance claims, the fourth World Police Summit opened in Dubai yesterday as a clarion call for unified global action.

It kicked off under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.

The summit, inaugurated by Lt General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, will conclude tomorrow at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The central theme, “Shaping the Future of Policing,” underscores the urgency of adapting law enforcement practices to a rapidly evolving global landscape shaped by emerging technologies and transnational threats. In his opening address, Lt General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, warned of the growing impact of cybercrime and artificial intelligence in the criminal world.

Al Marri stressed the importance of unified international efforts in tackling rising threats and called for stronger global partnerships. “Protecting our communities is a shared responsibility. This summit is a vital step towards transforming ideas into actionable strategies for a safer world,” he added.

Organised by Dubai Police in collaboration with DXB LIVE, the event is a comprehensive platform addressing the future of policing. In addition to exploring cutting-edge technologies, the summit features a series of interactive sessions on urgent global issues such as human trafficking, child exploitation, and gang violence.

Leading agencies, including the FBI and law enforcement experts from the UK, are contributing insights on effective global cooperation and crime prevention strategies.

The summit aims to deliver concrete recommendations that can be implemented by police forces worldwide.