Emirates Invests AED 85 Million in Facial Recognition Technology at Dubai International Airport

Biometric innovation enhances passenger convenience at Dubai International Airport

Emirates has invested AED 85 million to install more than 200 biometric-enabled cameras across Terminal 3, Dubai International Airport (DXB), allowing customers to move through check-in, immigration, boarding gates, and lounges using facial recognition.

The initiative, developed in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD), removes the need for passengers to present passports or boarding passes at multiple touchpoints. The advanced cameras recognise biometric profiles from up to one metre away, reducing processing time and improving passenger flow.

Customers, whether residents or visitors, can register for the biometric service through the Emirates app, at self-service kiosks, or at check-in desks. Registration, completed once with customer consent, enables travellers to use dedicated biometric zones for future journeys to and from Dubai.

Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, Emirates, 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.”

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, added: “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 the government and private sectors of Dubai. Together, we are shaping a seamless travel experience that embodies the reputation of the United Arab Emirates, and Dubai in particular, for efficiency, hospitality, and digital governance.”

Customers aged 18 and above can register on the Emirates app, self-service kiosks, or at check-in desks by linking their passport and Emirates Skywards profile. Once registered, they can use facial recognition for check-in, boarding, lounge access, and immigration via GDRFAD Smart Gates, reducing waiting times at every stage of travel.