Virus projects renew questions about UAE’s mass surveillance

A file photo of a worker examining a gate system that conducts temperature checks and fogs disinfectants on users, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Efforts by the UAE to fight the coronavirus have renewed questions about mass surveillance in this US-allied federation of seven sheikhdoms. — Photos: AP

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates: Efforts by the United Arab Emirates to fight the coronavirus have renewed questions about mass surveillance in this US-allied federation of seven sheikhdoms.

Experts believe the UAE has one of the highest per capita concentrations of surveillance cameras in the world. From the streets of the capital of Abu Dhabi to the tourist attractions of skyscraper-studded Dubai, the cameras keep track of the license plates and faces of those passing by them.