Abu Dhabi port operator beefs up security with drones

By Andy Sambidge

Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC), the master developer of ports and industrial zones, has launched new “eye in the sky” drones as part of improved security measures at its port facilities.

The two new flying cameras, which comply with international regulations, will cover specific areas at Khalifa Port, Zayed Port, the Free Port, and The New Free Port, ADPC said in a statement.

The increased surveillance will strengthen the maritime security of international ships in the port, with even difficult to access locations being comprehensively monitored, offering a higher level of reassurance to visiting foreign vessels or ships with high value or sensitive cargos, the company added.

ADPC said the drones will be able to view, assess and monitor any accident or search and rescue situation and will help minimise staff or contractors’ exposure to high risk situations.

The security drone’s camera is fitted with an integrated GPS auto-pilot system offering position holding, altitude lock and stable hovering.

The camera can capture full HD video 1080p at 30fps and 14 megapixel still photographs and comes equipped with its own Wi-Fi network for data transfer.

“The new drone cameras will be excellent security tools for monitoring, viewing and managing incidents, and will be particularly valuable in any search and rescue situation,” said Sultan Al Jaberi, vice president Regulations, HSE and Security, ADPC.

“The cameras will offer an enhanced perspective that will enable us to evaluate and anticipate any issues or future risks, offering our customers greater peace of mind and reassurance.

“This new resource has given us a valuable tool, significantly enhancing the safety and security across Khalifa Port and the Abu Dhabi city centre ports.

“The biggest benefit will be reducing the risk to human life in remote or dangerous scenarios, where we can now use the camera instead of a person,” added Al Jaberi.