Emirates passengers flying through Dubai can now complete their entire airport journey without showing a passport or phone, thanks to new Facial Recognition Cameras installed across Terminal 3. The airline has introduced over 200 biometric cameras as part of an AED 85 million investment to improve efficiency and reduce waiting times.
Developed in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs Dubai (GDRFA), the Facial Recognition Cameras identify passengers from one metre away. Registered travellers can now move through check-in, immigration, lounges, and boarding gates simply by looking at a camera—making the entire process faster and paperless.
According to Emirates, any passenger—whether a UAE resident or visitor—can register for the service through the Emirates app, self-service kiosks, or check-in counters. Once enrolled, passengers can use dedicated biometric lanes each time they travel through Dubai.
Adel Al Redha, Emirates Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, said the new Biometric Path highlights the airline’s commitment to innovation. “We have been working with the GDRFA since 2017 to implement the latest technologies that make travel seamless and secure,” he stated.
To access the system, travellers must register on the Emirates app or at check-in. They must be Emirates Skywards members, scan their passports, and give consent for biometric data use. Only passengers aged 18 and above are eligible to register.
The Facial Recognition Cameras are available at check-in kiosks, Emirates Lounges, and selected boarding gates across Concourses A, B, and C. Eligible travellers, including UAE citizens, residents, GCC nationals, and visa-on-arrival visitors with biometric passports, can also use GDRFA Smart Gates for quick immigration clearance.
For privacy protection, Emirates links passenger data securely with GDRFA systems. New visitors receive a temporary biometric profile that converts into a permanent record after entering Dubai.
This advanced facial recognition system marks a major step toward a faster, smarter, and fully contactless airport experience.
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