Emirates is using biometrics at Dubai International Airport

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Emirates continues to invest in innovative solutions for a seamless travel experience: With over 200 biometrically controlled cameras at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport (DXB), passengers will soon be able to pass through check-in, security, lounges, and boarding areas without needing to show their passport or boarding pass. The technology is based on facial recognition and can be activated in minutes via the Emirates app.

Fast, secure and contactless – biometric travel in Dubai

The new system is the result of close collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD) and was implemented with an investment of USD 23 million. The cameras recognize the face of a registered passenger from up to one meter away, enabling significantly faster processes at several stations in the terminal, from check-in to boarding. Emirates demonstrates how the biometric system works in practice in a short video illustrating the new process at the airport:

Here’s how it works:

• Registration: Possible via the Emirates app, the self-service kiosks at the airport, or directly at the check-in counter. Requirements include an Emirates Skywards account, a valid passport, and consent to biometric data collection.
• Check-in: After successful registration, passengers can use biometric kiosks for check-in.
• Fast through immigration control: By using GDRFAD Smart Gates, travelers can get from immigration to security or baggage claim in seconds. This new feature is available to UAE citizens or residents, GCC nationals, or visitors with a biometric passport.
• Lounge access via facial recognition: Access to the Emirates Lounge in Concourse B is also contactless. Five biometrically controlled entrances have recently been installed there.
• Biometric boarding: At selected gates on Concourses A, B, and C, registered passengers can simply board with a glance at the camera system. More gates will follow soon.

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