Dubai is introducing new measures to reduce travel times employing more smart gates and innovative software systems. In an announcement, the general directorate of residency and foreign affairs in Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) released the investment plans for modification.
Over the next three years, the authority aims to boost the use of smart gates by registering four million travelers for the programme. The GDRFA said that it will create an electronic linkage system with Emirates Airlines at Dubai International Airport to reduce travel time for departures by 50% from the current time of approximately 30 minutes.
By the end of the programme, there will be a total of 102 smart gates at Dubai International Airport and the new Al Maktoum International Airport.
Smart gates were introduced in January 2013 and are equipped with functions such as automatic identification system, facial imprint and automatic iris scan. These gates are specially designed to help speed up the passport control procedures.
UAE nationals, residents and visitors can register for the smart gates at GDRFA-Dubai headquarters, Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1 and 3, Emirates Airlines headquarters and aviation services provider dnata.
The airport is also planning to open a new concourse next year, which will be designed to handle 18 million passengers annually and accommodate 17 aircraft.
Dubai is currently developing the Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, which will be able to accommodate close to 160 million passengers after completion.
