Sun City Resort Deploys Autonomous Security Drones at The Palace to Modernize Guest Safety

Fidelity ADT deploys autonomous DJI drones at Sun City’s Palace of the Lost City to enhance surveillance and security response through aerial technology.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 2, 2026, 6:08 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from MyBroadband

The Dawn of Autonomous Surveillance at The Palace

The installation of a permanent drone dock at The Palace of the Lost City marks a pivotal transition toward automated security in South Africa’s luxury hospitality sector. According to Fidelity ADT, this deployment allows for the autonomous launch of DJI drones to facilitate live surveillance and enhanced visibility across the resort. By positioning the technology at the crown jewel of Sun City, security teams can now leverage aerial viewpoints that were previously unavailable, ensuring a more responsive safety net for high profile guests and sprawling resort infrastructure.

A High Stakes Investment in Resort Revitalization

This technological leap is supported by a broader R400 million financial commitment from Sun International designed to restore Sun City to its historical prominence. CEO Ulrik Bengtsson noted that recent investments are yielding tangible results, particularly as the resort recovers from economic stagnation and the lingering impacts of the pandemic. The decision to integrate advanced robotics into the security apparatus reflects a shift in operational intensity, moving away from traditional methods to meet the expectations of modern luxury travelers.

Strategic Pivot from Gaming to Family Hospitality

As consumer behavior evolves in South Africa, Sun International is actively steering the resort’s revenue model away from land-based gambling toward family oriented hospitality. While the casino remains a significant attraction, Bengtsson highlighted that an analysis of their model required a sharper focus on staff training and floor management. The introduction of drones serves as a visible deterrent and a safety assurance, aligning with the resort’s new identity as a premier family destination rather than just a gaming hub.