IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Dubai International Airport is revamping its smart gates system to streamline the process of going through passport control.

What does the change mean? Travelers with biometric passports or Emirates ID cards will be able to move through passport control more quickly. The system will replace the current e-gates system in the Dubai airport.

  • Implementation time frame: The revamped smart gates are expected to go into operation next month.
  • Who is affected: Foreign and UAE nationals over 18 years who hold a biometric passport or Emirates ID card.
  • Impact on processing times: The smart gates will speed immigration clearance.
  • Business impact: Foreign and UAE nationals traveling to Dubai will benefit from the service.

Background: Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, director-general of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai, announced the introduction of the revamped smart gates last week at the Dubai International Government Achievements Exhibition. Al Marri reportedly said the system would allow travelers to pass through passport control in just 10 seconds. Smart gates will not be available to children under the age of 18 or to holders of manual passports.

BAL Analysis: The change will ease immigration clearance procedures for travelers with a biometric passport or Emirates ID card. E-gates cards will no longer be used with the smart gates system.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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