Emirates to launch robots that check in passengers and carry bags in 2027

Dubai-based Emirates Group is developing advanced airport robots that will automate passenger check-in and baggage handling procedures, with the technology set to be launched in early 2027. Keenan Hamza, the company's vice-president of Innovation and New Technologies, revealed the project's alignment with their broader efforts to incorporate artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced technology for enhanced passenger experiences.

During the fourth edition of ForsaTEK 2026, a major innovation event, Hamza explained that these new robots would build upon the success of the initial prototype, Sara, which utilized facial recognition and passport scanning to streamline check-in processes. The next generation of these robots will possess expanded capabilities, including the ability to recognize passengers through facial scans, retrieve their luggage, weigh it, and attach a baggage tag autonomously, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

This initiative is being spearheaded through a dedicated robotics laboratory established by Emirates Group, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and automation across various aspects of their operations. The company is also leveraging automation in cargo operations, automating the measurement of pallet dimensions, and employing drones for inspecting engine components at Tokyo Haneda Airport.

Hamza emphasized that Dubai Airport is leading the way in the region in utilizing drones for such inspections. With a focus on personalization, the group intends to use AI solutions to anticipate passengers' needs and preferences, reducing the requirement for them to explicitly request services. By harnessing vast amounts of passenger data, AI is set to play a pivotal role in tailoring services more closely to individual requirements, making the travel experience more proactive and seamless.