Emirates has announced an 85 million AED investment in new facial recognition systems across Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB), introducing more than 200 biometric-enabled cameras to streamline passenger processing.
The technology will allow Emirates passengers to move through check-in, immigration, boarding, and lounge access points without repeatedly presenting passports or boarding passes. The airline said the system aims to reduce waiting times and enhance operational efficiency.
This rollout follows several years of collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD).
Once registered, passengers can pass through dedicated biometric zones at key stages of their journey, from check-in to boarding. Registration can be completed via the Emirates app, self-service kiosks or check-in desks. Both residents and visitors are eligible to enrol, provided they are members of the Emirates Skywards programme and consent to the use of their biometric data held by GDRFAD.
Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, said: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, ensuring that our customers enjoy a world-class, seamless journey.
Passengers who enrol can use biometric check-in kiosks, pass through Smart Gates at immigration, and enter Emirates Lounges through facial recognition. Biometric boarding is currently available at selected departure gates in Concourses A, B and C, with further expansion planned.
For travellers who have previously visited Dubai or hold residency, Emirates can match facial data with existing GDRFAD profiles upon consent. New visitors can create a temporary biometric record that will be updated once a full GDRFAD profile is established on entry to the UAE.
H.E. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai said:At GDRFA Dubai, innovation has long been part of our DNA and a cornerstone of our services. Over the years, we have integrated artificial intelligence and biometric technologies to make travel through Dubai faster, safer, and more intuitive. 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 United Arab Emirates in general, and Dubai in particular, for efficiency, hospitality, and digital governance.
