Emirates has announced a significant AED 85 million ($23 million) investment to install over 200 biometrics-enabled cameras across Terminal 3 at Dubai International (DXB). This initiative, developed in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD), is set to create a seamless “biometric path” for travelers, allowing them to move through check-in, immigration, lounge access, and boarding gates using only facial recognition.
A Seamless Customer Journey
The new system aims to eliminate the need for passengers to present passports and boarding passes at multiple points within the airport, significantly reducing processing times. The advanced cameras can recognize a customer’s biometric profile from up to one meter away, enabling travelers to walk through various checkpoints without pausing. By registering on the Emirates app, customers can consent to using the service and enjoy a faster, more fluid airport experience every time they fly from Dubai.
A Public-Private Partnership for Innovation
This technological leap forward is the result of a long-standing partnership between Emirates and Dubai’s immigration authorities, focused on enhancing the travel experience through innovation.
Adel al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President & Chief Operating Officer, stated, ‘With our latest Biometrics Path development, Emirates has invested in further innovations to enhance the customer travel experience, providing remarkable speed, efficiency, and accuracy at Terminal 3 in Dubai International Airport. Since 2017, we have been working in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai to upgrade our equipment and implement the latest technologies.’
H.E. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the GDRFAD, commented on the collaboration, “Our partnership with Emirates continues this path of excellence, reflecting the spirit of collaboration that defines Dubai’s government and private sectors. Together, we are shaping a seamless travel experience that embodies reputation of the UAE in general, and Dubai in particular, for efficiency, hospitality, and digital governance.”
How the Biometric Path Works
For customers to utilize the new system, the process is streamlined into a few simple steps:
Registration: Emirates Skywards members aged 18 and over can register in minutes through the Emirates app by scanning their passport and providing consent for Emirates to use their details stored with the GDRFAD. Registration can also be done at self-service kiosks or check-in desks at the airport.
Check-In and Transfers: Once registered, travelers can use facial recognition at check-in kiosks. The service will also soon be available for connecting flights.
Immigration Smart Gates: The system integrates with the GDFRAD-managed Smart Gates, allowing registered travelers to pass through immigration in seconds with a quick facial scan.
Lounge Access: Eligible customers can enter the Emirates Lounge in Concourse B through five dedicated biometric entry points.
Boarding: At select gates in Concourses A, B, and C, registered passengers can board their flights without showing a boarding pass, with more gates being equipped with the technology soon.
About Emirates
Emirates is the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates and one of the world’s largest international airlines. Based in Dubai, it operates a vast global network connecting continents and cultures. The airline is renowned for its industry-leading services, modern fleet, and commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the customer travel experience.
Source: Zawya
