Abu Dhabi Airports Launches 7-Second Biometric Travel

2 months ago Editor

Abu Dhabi Airports’ new Biometric Smart Travel project at Zayed International Airport reduces passenger processing time to just seven seconds, integrating advanced biometric systems for a seamless travel experience.

Abu Dhabi Airports has launched the Biometric Smart Travel project at Zayed International Airport in partnership with the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, and AI solution provider Next 50. This innovative project will roll out in three phases, integrating biometric authentication systems across all security and operational touchpoints to streamline passenger processing.

“The Biometric Smart Travel project will cut traveler processing time from 25 seconds to just seven seconds, combining ticket and travel document verification into one seamless process, significantly reducing the need for human resources by utilizing smart gates for identity verification,” said Saeed Saif Al Khaili, General Director at the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.

The project uses federal databases to authenticate travelers through biometric technology, eliminating the need for prior registration for departing passengers. By implementing the Smart Travel project, Abu Dhabi Airports aims to enhance aviation security, improve the traveler experience, and streamline airport operations.

With the opening of Zayed International Airport’s new terminal in November 2023, Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways introduced biometric systems at multiple touchpoints, including automated traveler registration, self-service baggage delivery, and facial recognition at e-gates and boarding gates, minimizing the need for travel documents or direct staff interaction.

Abu Dhabi Airports is now expanding the Smart Travel project by introducing biometric systems for five additional airlines at check-in and boarding gates, as well as installing new e-gates in transit areas for facial recognition and traveler registration. The expansion also includes the Etihad Airways lounge and duty-free retail outlets. “By 2025, we aim to extend these systems across all security and operational touchpoints and to other airlines,” stated Andrew Murphy, Chief Information Officer at Zayed International Airport.

The Biometric Smart Travel project at Zayed International Airport is set to enhance airline performance, reduce the need for costly infrastructure expansions, and effectively detect identification fraud and forgery.