Emirates rolls out AED 85 million facial recognition system across Dubai International

Over 200 biometric cameras to deliver faster, document-free airport experience at DXB Terminal 3

Emirates has unveiled a major expansion of its biometric technology across Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 3, investing AED 85 million to install more than 200 facial recognition cameras in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD).

The new biometric path enables Emirates customers to move through key airport touchpoints—check-in, immigration, lounges, and boarding gates—without presenting a passport or boarding pass, using only facial recognition. Registration can be completed in minutes via the Emirates app, at self-service kiosks, or at check-in desks.

“With our latest Biometrics Path development, Emirates has invested in further innovations to enhance the customer travel experience, providing remarkable speed, efficiency, and accuracy,” said Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President and COO. “Since 2017, we’ve worked with GDRFA Dubai to implement cutting-edge technology that ensures our customers enjoy a seamless journey.”

H.E. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, added:

“Innovation and collaboration have made Dubai a global leader in smart travel. Our partnership with Emirates reinforces our commitment to faster, safer, and more intuitive travel experiences that reflect the UAE’s reputation for digital excellence.”

How It Works

Once registered, travellers can:

• Check in via biometric kiosks without a passport or boarding pass.
• Use Smart Gates at immigration for swift entry and exit.
• Access Emirates Lounges through facial recognition at designated gates.
• Board flights through biometric-enabled gates at Concourses A, B, and C.

Eligible users include UAE citizens and residents, GCC nationals, and visa-on-arrival visitors with biometric passports. Emirates customers who have previously visited Dubai can have their GDRFAD biometric profile automatically linked during registration.

The initiative significantly reduces processing time and marks another step in Emirates’ and Dubai’s vision for a frictionless, paperless travel experience.