In just seven seconds, your immigration verification will be completed at Zayed International Airport, thanks to the implementation of the world’s first-of-its-kind ‘biometric smart travel’ system. This groundbreaking technology, announced by the Abu Dhabi Media Office on July 22, utilizes data from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) to automatically authenticate travelers through biometric technology.
This innovative upgrade will revolutionize your journey through Zayed International Airport in several ways.
Quicker immigration process
The time taken to assist travelers will be significantly reduced from 25 seconds to a mere seven seconds through the implementation of a streamlined process that combines ticket and travel document verification. This efficiency will be achieved by utilizing smart gates, which will expedite the overall check-in process and enhance the overall customer experience.
9 places where you won’t need documents
Zayed International Airport has made history by being the first airport in the world to introduce biometric touchpoints at nine different locations. This innovative technology eliminates the need for passengers to present their passport or ticket to complete various processes, including:
- Pre-travel enrolment: Pre-travel enrollment is a seamless process that ensures a smooth airport experience for travelers. Upon arrival at the Zayed International Airport, passengers are automatically enrolled in the airport gallery for the day. This enrollment allows for easy navigation through the airport, thanks to the integration of a biometric solution with government entities.
The airport’s website explains that the necessary data for auto-enrollment is collected through this biometric solution. Before your journey, a biometric profile is created in the Airport Gallery, including your passport details, flight information, and facial image from the ICP system. This streamlined process not only enhances security but also simplifies the use of various services available at the airport.
Overall, pre-travel enrollment at Zayed International Airport offers a convenient and efficient way for passengers to move through the airport with ease.
- Check-in desk: Biometric cameras will streamline the check-in process at the counters, making it quicker and more efficient for passengers.
- Self-service bag drop: Passengers can take advantage of the self-service bag drop facility, conveniently located at the airport and equipped with cutting-edge biometric technology to enhance security and expedite the check-in process.
- E-Gates: Utilizing the e-gates provides a seamless and efficient process, thanks to the integration of biometric technology.
- Immigration Counters: The immigration counters have been enhanced with passport readers, guaranteeing a swift and effective procedure.
- Shopping: Navigating through the airport’s retail space has been optimized with the implementation of biometric cameras, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Lounge: Access to the lounge will be streamlined with the use of biometric cameras, making it more convenient for travelers to relax and unwind before their flight.
- Boarding Gate: Boarding will be expedited thanks to the implementation of biometric cameras at the boarding gates, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for passengers.
- Transit: For passengers catching connecting flights, the use of biometric cameras or e-gates will provide a seamless transition, making the travel experience more convenient and hassle-free.
Which passengers is this available for?
According to the official announcement, the project is being implemented in stages.
As a part of the unveiling of the new terminal at Zayed International Airport in November 2023, Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways have introduced biometric systems. These systems have been integrated into the check-in process for five additional airlines, all boarding gates, and the installation of new e-gates in specific transit areas. The upcoming expansion will also include the integration of biometric systems in the Etihad Airways lounge and duty-free retail outlets. By 2025, these systems will be extended to all security and operational checkpoints, as well as other airlines.
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