Emirates launches full-touch facial recognition at Dubai International Airport
Emirates is taking a new step in digitising the travel experience by introducing a state-of-the-art facial recognition system in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The initiative, carried out in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD), required an investment of 85 million dirhams (about 21 million euros) and involves the installation of over 200 biometric cameras in key areas of the airport.
The new system allows passengers to complete check-in, immigration, lounge access and boarding without showing a passport or boarding pass. The cameras, equipped with advanced technology, recognize the traveler's biometric profile up to one meter away, making transit faster and smoother and significantly reducing waiting times at the airport.
This project reinforces Dubai's strategy as a global hub of smart mobility and innovation, while improving the safety and operational efficiency of the UAE's main international airport.
Emirates' new biometric path in Dubai
1. Registration
Passengers of legal age can register for the service via the Emirates app, at self-service kiosks or at check-in counters. The procedure takes a few minutes: just scan your passport, check the data match and provide consent to the use of the biometric information managed by the GDRFAD.
2. Biometric check-in
Once registered, Travellers can check in simply via facial recognition. Soon, the feature will also be extended to passengers in transit between two Emirates flights.
3. Quick access via Smart Gates
The Smart Gates in Terminal 3 allow you to pass through security and immigration in seconds. The service is available to Emirati citizens and residents, GCC citizens, and visitors with biometric passports or visas on arrival.
4. Biometric lounge access
Those with access to the Emirates Lounges can enter Concourse B through five dedicated biometric gates . Access is immediate and automated, without the need to show documents.
5. Fast Biometric Boarding
Boarding via facial recognition is already active at several gates of Concourses A, B and C. Registered passengers can board without a boarding pass, with a simple glance at the camera.
Biometric profile management and security
Emirates customers who already have a GDRFAD profile can use it directly when registering. Those who do not have one can create a temporary one, which will be transformed into a permanent profile when you first enter Dubai. Biometric data is managed securely and remains valid for all future travel to and from Dubai.
