A sophisticated surveillance programme rolled out by Dubai Police to track down wanted criminals is being adapted to boost early detection rates for Covid-19.
The force's Oyoon (eyes) project involves a network of thousands of cameras armed with artificial intelligence and facial recognition software and is viewed as a key weapon in the fight against crime in the emirate.
Now the CCTV cameras dotted across Dubai's streets are being equipped with thermal imaging technology to pick up a rise in body temperature – a common symptom of Covid-19 – and alert authorities to potential coronavirus cases.
Widespread efforts are being made across the country to limit the spread of the virus by detecting cases as early as possible.
In Al Dana district of Abu Dhabi, security guards in residential buildings will carry out temperature checks on residents and report those suspected to have Covid-19.
Abu Dhabi City Municipality has distributed 200 thermal scanning devices to security workers in residential tower blocks in Al Dana.
The guards have been educated about common symptoms of Covid-19 and briefed on who to contact to report suspected cases.
“Dubai Police is one of the few government agencies in the world to use AI extensively, which is something we continue to do now during the coronavirus outbreak,” said Brig Khalid Al Razooqi, director of smart services at Dubai Police during a remote meeting on Sunday.
“The cameras of the force’s AI-based Oyoon programme are now sensing people’s temperature.
“Another use for these cameras that is still in the testing phase, is to ensure people maintain a safe distance.”
The official said the cameras will be able to gauge distances between people in malls and public areas.
“When people come closer to one another, the system will generate an alarm,” he said.
Members of the public are being urged to keep two metres apart to help limit the spread of the virus.
Bashar Kilani, Regional Executive at IBM Middle East, said during the remote meeting that AI will play an increasingly important role in daily life in years to come.
“AI and new technologies will be part of the majority of daily tasks in the near future, and Covid-19 is helping accelerate this digital transformation,” he said.
He said a study carried out by IBM’s institute for business value last October found that 120 million jobs around the world have a digital gap that need to be closed within the next three years.
“This is a huge number but these are jobs such as police work, health care providers, engineers and retailers, which will ingest AI and new technologies and become more efficient and effective,” he said.
“Tasks that require knowledge, critical thinking and interpersonal skills will evolve, and develop with the use of AI.”
Scorebox
Dubai Sports City Eagles 7 Bahrain 88
Eagles
Try: Penalty
Bahrain
Tries: Gibson 2, Morete 2, Bishop 2, Bell 2, Behan, Fameitau, Sanson, Roberts, Bennett, Radley
Cons: Radley 4, Whittingham 5
How to apply for a drone permit
- Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
- Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
- Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
- Submit their request
What are the regulations?
- Fly it within visual line of sight
- Never over populated areas
- Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
- Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
- Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
- Should have a live feed of the drone flight
- Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
Specs
Engine: 51.5kW electric motor
Range: 400km
Power: 134bhp
Torque: 175Nm
Price: From Dh98,800
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UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
THE BIO
Born: Mukalla, Yemen, 1979
Education: UAE University, Al Ain
Family: Married with two daughters: Asayel, 7, and Sara, 6
Favourite piece of music: Horse Dance by Naseer Shamma
Favourite book: Science and geology
Favourite place to travel to: Washington DC
Best advice you’ve ever been given: If you have a dream, you have to believe it, then you will see it.
If you go
Flying
Despite the extreme distance, flying to Fairbanks is relatively simple, requiring just one transfer in Seattle, which can be reached directly from Dubai with Emirates for Dh6,800 return.
Touring
Gondwana Ecotours’ seven-day Polar Bear Adventure starts in Fairbanks in central Alaska before visiting Kaktovik and Utqiarvik on the North Slope. Polar bear viewing is highly likely in Kaktovik, with up to five two-hour boat tours included. Prices start from Dh11,500 per person, with all local flights, meals and accommodation included; gondwanaecotours.com
What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE
Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.
Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.
Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Supports heart health and reduces inflammation, especially for those who consume little fish.
Silent Hill f
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Rating: 4.5/5
Know your camel milk:
Flavour: Similar to goat’s milk, although less pungent. Vaguely sweet with a subtle, salty aftertaste.
Texture: Smooth and creamy, with a slightly thinner consistency than cow’s milk.
Use it: In your morning coffee, to add flavour to homemade ice cream and milk-heavy desserts, smoothies, spiced camel-milk hot chocolate.
Goes well with: chocolate and caramel, saffron, cardamom and cloves. Also works well with honey and dates.
Who's who in Yemen conflict
Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory
More from Rashmee Roshan Lall
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Jetour T1 specs
Engine: 2-litre turbocharged
Power: 254hp
Torque: 390Nm
Price: From Dh126,000
Available: Now
