Emirates Deploys Innovative Facial Recognition Technology Across Dubai International Airport
- Joe Breitfeller
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Emirates has invested over AED 85 million (US $23.1 million) to install more than 200 biometrics-enabled cameras across Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport, providing speedy, seamless and secure passenger processing.
On Monday (November 3, 2025), Emirates announced that they have invested over AED 85 million (US $23.1 million) to install more than 200 biometrics-enabled cameras across Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport (DXB) allowing more travelers to pass through check-in, immigration, boarding gates, lounges and board the aircraft, simply by facial recognition, with a quick and easy registration on Emirates app. This technology eliminates the need to take out a passport and boarding pass at various points in the airport. The new biometrics initiative is a collaboration between Emirates and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD), and will reduce processing time significantly for all registered customers. The powerful cameras can recognise the biometric profile of a customer from one meter away, allowing travelers to walk swiftly through areas where they used to have to pause and show documents.
In Monday’s announcement, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, Adel al Redha, 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.”
Also commenting on the deployment of the innovative facial recognition technology at DXB, H.E. Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the 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 Dubai’s government and private sectors. Together, we are shaping a seamless travel experience that embodies reputation of the United Arab Emirates in general, and Dubai in particular, for efficiency, hospitality, and digital governance.”
Customers can register using the Emirates app, or in person at check‑in desks in Dubai. Travelers must be 18 years or older to register and each customer must register individually. Customers are required to be members of Emirates Skywards and need to simply scan their passport, ensure all passport details match their Emirates Skywards profile, and provide consent for Emirates to use details stored in the UAE General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs database.
Source: Emirates
