Look: Rare photos and artefacts trace the 70-year journey of Dubai Police

Dubai Police has unveiled a captivating exhibition at the International Council of Museums (ICOM) conference, tracing its remarkable 70-year journey from humble beginnings to a globally recognized institution. Hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre until November 17, the showcase features rare artefacts, vintage photographs, and historical documents, many of which are being displayed publicly for the first time. The exhibition, part of the world’s largest gathering of museum professionals, marks ICOM’s first general conference in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The display opens with a striking juxtaposition of the original 1956 khaki uniform and the modern ceremonial attire, symbolizing decades of evolution in service and discipline. Among the highlights is a Sony-made video-call phone from 2000, a testament to the force’s early embrace of technology. Visitors can also explore the origins of the Dubai Police anthem, composed in 1963, and examine historical correspondence detailing the meticulous planning behind symbols of authority. Restored photographs and audio commentary chronicle milestones, from the introduction of aerial surveillance to the pioneering inclusion of female officers. The exhibit’s design, blending traditional wind-tower architecture with digital interfaces, mirrors the institution’s fusion of heritage and innovation. Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness, expressed pride in the showcase, which underscores Dubai Police’s commitment to preserving its legacy while embracing progress.