Abu Dhabi Airports, in partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), has introduced a groundbreaking biometric ‘Smart Travel’ system at Zayed International Airport. Announced on 21 July 2024, this innovative project will transform the airport experience by integrating biometric technology across key touchpoints.
What is the Biometric ‘Smart Travel’ System?
The new biometric ‘Smart Travel’ system aims to make air travel smoother and more secure. Abu Dhabi Airports, in partnership with Next 50, launched this system to enhance security and streamline passenger processing.
.@ad_airports and @UAEICP have partnered to launch the world’s first-of-its-kind biometric Smart Travel project at @AUH, enhancing aviation security and safety in collaboration with Next 50, a company specialising in AI-driven transportation solutions. pic.twitter.com/zjgN3kUBqb
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The system will be rolled out in three phases. It will use biometric checks throughout the airport, allowing automatic traveler verification. This means passengers no longer need to register in advance. The goal is to improve security and speed up the airport experience.
How It Improves Your Travel Experience
As part of the new terminal opening at Zayed International Airport in November 2023, the team introduced biometric systems for several services. These included self-service baggage drop and facial recognition at e-gates and boarding gates. This new system allows passengers to move through processes without showing travel documents or interacting with staff.
The next phase will extend biometric systems to check-in for five additional airlines, all boarding gates, and new e-gates in transit areas. Plans also include adding biometric verification at the Etihad Airways lounge and in duty-free shops.
What Leaders Are Saying
Andrew Murphy, CIO at Zayed International Airport, expressed pride in launching this cutting-edge system at our new terminal. Our aim is to make the travel experience as smooth as possible using the latest biometric technology. “By 2025, we plan to expand this system to all security and operational touchpoints, ensuring top service and security for passengers.”
Saeed Saif Al Khaili, General Director at ICP, added, “The Biometric Smart Travel project is designed to improve the travel experience from start to finish. This system cuts processing time from 25 seconds to just seven seconds, combining ticket and document checks into one seamless process. It also reduces the reliance on staff by using smart gates for identity verification.”
Benefits for Travelers and Airlines
The new biometric system offers significant benefits for both travelers and airlines. It enhances security while also reducing the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. The system detects fraud and prevents document forgery, contributing to a safer and more efficient travel environment.
By setting this new standard in airport operations, Abu Dhabi Airports is paving the way for a more secure and enjoyable travel experience. The project reflects a commitment to using advanced technology to improve passenger services and airport efficiency.
The launch of Abu Dhabi Airport’s biometric ‘Smart Travel’ system marks a major step forward in air travel. By integrating biometric technology, the system aims to offer a more secure and efficient experience for travelers. As the system expands, it will set a new standard for airports and highlight Abu Dhabi’s leadership in aviation innovation.
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