Facial recognition at Dubai International Airport: Emirates deploys 200 cameras
Dubai International Airport (DXB) continues its digital transformation with the installation of an extensive facial recognition system. Emirates has confirmed the deployment of 200 biometric cameras, representing an investment of approximately 85 million dirhams (around USD 23 million). The project aims to streamline passenger movement throughout the terminal, from check-in to boarding.
The technology enables automatic and continuous identification of travelers without the need to present physical documents. It is designed to accelerate immigration procedures, enhance security, and reduce waiting times for passengers.
A system covering the entire passenger journey
According to Emirates, the cameras will be installed in key areas of the airport: check-in counters, immigration checkpoints, boarding gates, and lounges. The system will be integrated with existing airport infrastructure to provide seamless, real-time identity verification.
The goal is to create a fully automated journey — from arrival to boarding — using facial recognition as the only form of identification. Passengers will move through each stage of the process without showing a boarding pass or passport, as their face becomes their travel credential.
Biometrics at the core of Dubai’s infrastructure
This deployment is part of a broader strategy by the United Arab Emirates to expand the use of biometric technologies across transportation and public services. The country has been investing heavily in facial recognition, iris scanning, and automated identity verification systems for several years.
Dubai International Airport, already a regional pioneer in “smart travel,” reinforces its position as a technological showcase. This new implementation adds to previous biometric initiatives, including automated e-gates and Emirates’ biometric check-in systems launched in 2019.
Moving toward contactless travel experiences
This development reflects a global trend toward contactless travel solutions supported by advances in artificial intelligence and computer vision. In Dubai, facial recognition is becoming a standard feature for frequent travelers, offering a smoother experience while maintaining high security standards in line with international regulations.
Source : https://www.biometricupdate.com/202511/emirates-unveils-23m-facial-recognition-deployment-with-200-cameras-at-dubai-intl
