Emirates installs 200+ biometric cameras at DXB Terminal 3 to enable passport-free check-in, boarding and lounge access using facial recognition.
DUBAI: Emirates has launched a major biometric upgrade at Dubai International Airport (DXB) with a AED 85 million investment, rolling out over 200 facial recognition cameras across Terminal 3. The technology enables customers to breeze through check-in, immigration, lounges and boarding — all without reaching for their passport or boarding pass.
The project, developed in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD), marks a significant step toward a truly contactless airport journey. Using biometric cameras installed at key touchpoints, Emirates customers who have registered their profile will be identified by facial recognition from up to one metre away — dramatically cutting down processing time.
Passengers can register their biometric data in just a few steps via the Emirates app, at airport check-in counters or self-service kiosks. Once registered, they’ll be able to access Smart Gates, lounge entry, and biometric boarding lanes without the need for documents. Registration is open to all Emirates flyers over 18, including UAE residents and frequent international visitors.
Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President and COO, 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.”
H.E. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFAD-Dubai, added, “Innovation is part of our DNA. This partnership with Emirates shapes a seamless, tech-powered travel experience that reflects Dubai’s global reputation for efficiency and hospitality.”
The new biometric experience spans five stages:
- Check-in: Facial scan at kiosks for flight check-in.
- Immigration: Smart Gates recognise registered customers for fast-track entry and exit.
- Lounge entry: Emirates lounges at Concourse B now feature biometric access gates.
- Boarding: No need for documents at biometric boarding gates in Concourses A, B and C.
- Connections: Coming soon — biometric transfers for connecting Emirates flights.
Biometric registration is tied to the GDRFAD database for UAE residents and prior visitors, ensuring a consistent experience across future trips. Non-registered visitors can still create a temporary profile for seamless travel until their GDRFAD data is activated.
