In the Gulf, security robots are more than just tools – they are essential to national digital transformation strategies. This strategic positioning has created a high-growth market where established firms and ambitious startups coexist, offering significant room for new ventures to disrupt the status quo.
The recent CES 2026 conference made one thing clear – robots are ready. At the Las Vegas event, the most remarkable thing was how quickly the machines can now be deployed, drastically reducing timelines for security operators and facility managers. Whether it’s a unit that patrols the home or is used in commercial or industrial environments, there’s a lot of excitement around this sector – the global security robots market is expected to reach USD 21.6 billion by 2030, and in the GCC region, the market is expected to rise from USD 1.21 million in 2024 to USD 6.15 million by 2033.
This article examines why the Gulf is a key location for security robots, the major players, and the opportunities in this sector for entrepreneurs.
Why is the Gulf a prime location for security robots?
A security robot is an autonomous or semi-autonomous machine that can patrol a space and detect anomalies. In the GCC, the UAE and Saudi Arabia account for the majority share of this technology, with the most common deployments in airports, malls, government buildings, and industrial sites.
There are several reasons the Gulf is such a prime location. The first is the rate of development – GCC states are expanding quickly and building smart cities and other mega infrastructure projects that need robotics backed by AI and IoT systems. There is also demand for security at sites such as airports, oil and gas facilities, and borders. Finally, governments such as those in the UAE and KSA are actively encouraging technology and innovation, with robotics playing a significant role. These countries have positioned themselves as early adopters of next-generation technologies, and security robotics fits within this remit.
Where are security robots being used in the Gulf?
Security robots come in many shapes and sizes. Some are wheeled autonomous vehicles, while others have a near-humanoid shape, with articulated limbs. Particularly relevant to the Gulf, some models are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and challenging terrain.
Let’s look at the key areas of deployment in the Gulf.
- Airports and border zones: These are perhaps the most common places where robotics could be used, with platforms designed for border control that complement human security. Robotics can conduct continuous patrols and scan for threats while feeding back real-time information to human-staffed control centres.
- Industrial: Autonomous robots can patrol perimeters, monitor equipment, and detect unauthorised access, all in real time. In addition, integration with AI and IoT systems enables predictive analysis that helps operators spot patterns that may indicate security risks.
- Urban and commercial spaces: By combining onboard sensors and surveillance technology, autonomous robots bolster public safety in two key ways. They provide a constant, visible deterrent to potential threats while ensuring rapid, automated incident reporting for a more responsive security environment. The rapid growth of urban centres, particularly smart cities, in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia means these systems will be in great demand.
Opportunities for entrepreneurs
Several companies are commercialising security robotics systems, including American firms such as Knightscope and Boston Dynamics, and Chinese companies such as Unitree. Meanwhile, in the Gulf, a number of companies are involved, including UAE-based IQ Robotics, Harbot, and Dexter Robotics, as well as Saudi-based firms like PROVEN Robotics, and Arabian Robotics Company.
The presence of well-established businesses does not detract from the fact that security robotics in the Gulf is ready for entrepreneurs and investors. These are some of the key areas:
- Localisation: Whenever there is a technological breakthrough on the international stage, there is a need for localisation into specific regional markets – along with integration, maintenance and other support services. There are opportunities here for startups to bridge this gap and create customised solutions for local conditions.
- Components: Startups can work in areas such as AI perception systems, low-power sensors, and navigation modules. These are essential elements to the makers of robotic platforms, and startups could start by collaborating with regional labs and research centres.
- Data Analytics: Robots generate a huge amount of data, which requires advanced analytics to turn it into actionable insights. Entrepreneurs who can provide AI-driven insights can find opportunities to help unlock additional value for end users.
- Robotics as a Service (RaaS): The subscription model is nothing new in tech, and given the high cost of robotic hardware, these models offer robotics through leasing, along with monitoring and performance guarantees. This can lower the barrier to entry for SMEs and government agencies.
- Working across sectors: Entrepreneurs can help robotics adapt to other areas such as facility management, perimeter inspection, industrial automation and logistics.
It should be noted that there are some obstacles to be considered, including regulatory frameworks that are not set in stone. With ever-changing policies and attitudes around privacy, safety (as well as public acceptance), this will require careful thought. In addition, investment in robotics platforms and supporting infrastructure can be high.
But given the Gulf’s proactive, forward-thinking approach to technology, significant infrastructure spending, and supportive policy environment, it is a compelling place for entrepreneurs to set up a robotics company. In fact, countries like the UAE are already positioning themselves as regional hubs for robotics and AI research, attracting global talent and investment to accelerate innovation.
Security robots are here
Security robots are not a speculative technology. Today, they are becoming integral to the Gulf’s security and industrial landscape. From autonomous patrols at airports to industrial monitoring and urban safety applications, these machines are redefining how organisations approach risk management and operational efficiency.
For entrepreneurs, the region offers a dynamic market with opportunities for innovation across hardware, software, services and business models. As adoption accelerates, those who build adaptable, reliable and locally attuned solutions will help shape the future of security in the Gulf and beyond.
