The Smugglers that make a living on Arrakis are ostensibly a neutral faction. However, the great powers at play are able to use them to their advantage in different ways. As their allegiance shifts, so does the dynamics of the game.

When the Smugglers expansion is added, the game is basically divided into two stages. At first, the Smugglers are neutral, with the Harkonnens turning a blind eye to their illegal operations in exchange for a spice tribute. Later in the game, the Atreides should be able to sway their allegiance, gaining the support of their Leader, Staban Tuek, as well as their soldiers and ‘Thopters.