Emirates is beginning work on two new projects that will “streamline” the check-in and immigration checks at Dubai international Airport Terminal 3’s departure gates.
The new initiatives will feature biometric technology and automated border control gates, with completion expected within the next 12 -18 months.
The projects have been signed off by the team currently reviewing all traveller touch points at Dubai International airport, with the aim of enhancing the overall customer experience.
The projects are the result of a collaboration between Emirates airline, Dubai Customs, Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai Police and Dubai Airports.
Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ executive vice president and chief operations officer said, “Even if it means investing in equipment, training and changing operational processes, all our partners are keen to embrace new technologies and thinking, if it benefits the end-users. We are all on the same page when it comes to wanting to deliver the best experience for visitors coming to and through Dubai. We look forward to bringing these projects to fruition and introducing more enhancements in the coming months.”
Using a facial recognition solution integrated with the UAE Wallet, travellers will be able to register and store their biometric data through multiple means.
This includes taking a selfie on their smartphones, as well as using biometric registration kiosks placed at check-in areas and Emirates Lounges.
They can then utilise this biometric data to ease their journey through immigration through Terminal 3’s departure gates and at other touch-points throughout DXB, including automated access to Emirates’ First and Business Class lounges.
Smart immigration gates will also be installed at Terminal 3, supplementing the existing e-gates and manned immigration counters.
The new gates will deliver an automated border control system that utilises travellers’ biometrics. It will also enable travellers to forgo the additional step of getting their passports and boarding passes manually checked by a security officer before they go through immigration.
GDFRA director Major General Mohammed Ahmed Almarri, said, “We are pleased to roll-out these new initiatives at Terminal 3 Departures in collaboration with Emirates and our airport stakeholders. We believe this will make our operations more efficient, free up our valuable manpower to focus on other responsibilities, and ultimately improve the traveller experience.”
