Abu Dhabi uses surveillance tech to protect Grand Prix

Abu Dhabi is traditionally security-conscious, but its protection strategies are ramped up when its Formula One Grand Prix takes place.

The annual race transforms the UAE’s capital emirate for just under a week every autumn as thousands of spectators from all over the world visit its state-of-the-art Yas Marina circuit.

The city’s police force is in charge of the logistics for protecting both the circuit and the emirate’s general civic surroundings during the event.

It is a huge operation that involves vast manpower and tailored technology, according to Khalfan Al Hassani, ICT Director, Abu Dhabi monitoring and control centre. “Year on year, security is enhanced by the introduction of new technologies, features and accessibility,” he said. “The Monitoring and Control Centre (MCC) looks to incorporate the right solutions to meet growing security demands.”

The MCC was established by the Abu Dhabi government to manage and regulate the use of monitoring and control devices in public and private facilities. It analyses the data provided by the devices to help prevent crime and maintain public security in the emirate.

Al Hassani said the open-architecture platform enabled Abu Dhabi to integrate thousands of cameras around the city and provide data to multiple operations areas during the Grand Prix.

“In today’s world, cities face unrelenting pressure to preempt and respond faster to security threats,” said Al Hassani. “The ability to not only collect data, but to extract actionable intelligence from data – often from diverse sources, such as video surveillance, sensors, access control, IT systems and even social media – can deliver a game-changing advantage.”

During last year’s race in November 2016, the Abu Dhabi MCC was able to merge unconnected technologies of different types, such as cameras, sensors and registration plate recognition. It pulled in data from various sensors around the city, such as heavily trafficked pedestrian areas, public transportation sites and major intersections around the Grand Prix circuit before and during the event to ensure public safety and heighten situational awareness.

Al Hassani said a 3D model of the circuit was created, which enhanced visibility of security operations and staff 24/7 throughout the event. “However, security for the Formula One race should not distract or interfere with the enjoyment and excitement of the event, and we will take appropriate measures to ensure this continues,” he said. “We aspire to ensure every spectator feels secure and enjoys their experience to the full.”