ICP Launches World’s First Biometric Smart Travel Project
In a groundbreaking move, Abu Dhabi Airports, in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), has unveiled the world’s first biometric Smart Travel project at Zayed International Airport.
This innovative initiative, announced on Sunday, promises to revolutionize the travel experience by enhancing aviation security, safety, and passenger convenience through advanced biometric technology.
Table of Contents
Key Components of the ICP Biometric Smart Travel Project
1. Biometric Authentication Integration
The Biometric Smart Travel project leverages cutting-edge biometric technology to streamline the travel process. One of the most remarkable features is that it eliminates the need for prior registration for departing passengers.
The system automatically authenticates travelers using the ICP’s databases, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.
Phased Rollout: The project will be rolled out in three phases, progressively integrating biometric authentication systems across all security and operational touchpoints at Zayed International Airport.
2. Enhanced Travel Experience
Travelers will benefit from various automated services designed to reduce wait times and enhance convenience:
Automated Traveler Registration: Passengers can register their biometrics at automated kiosks without the need for manual intervention.
Self-Service Baggage Delivery: Travelers can drop off their luggage using self-service kiosks, expediting the check-in process.
Facial Recognition at E-Gates and Boarding Gates: The use of facial recognition technology at e-gates and boarding gates eliminates the need for travel documents and direct interaction with airport staff.
3. Implementation Across Multiple Touchpoints
Initially launched in conjunction with the opening of the new terminal at Zayed International Airport in November 2023, the biometric systems are now being expanded:
Additional Airlines: Five more airlines will adopt biometric systems at check-in and boarding gates.
New E-Gates: E-gates will be installed in designated transit areas to facilitate biometric data registration and facial recognition.
Future Expansion: Plans include integrating biometric systems into the Etihad Airways lounge and duty-free retail outlets, further enhancing the passenger experience.
Benefits and Goals
1. Enhanced Security and Safety
The Biometric Smart Travel project aims to uphold the highest standards of aviation security:
Fraud and Forgery Detection: Biometric systems are adept at detecting fraudulent identification documents, ensuring that only verified individuals can access secure areas.
Maintaining High Protocols: The project ensures that all security and safety protocols are strictly adhered to, providing peace of mind for travelers and staff alike.
2. Improved Efficiency
Efficiency is at the heart of the Biometric Smart Travel project:
Reduced Processing Time: The time required to serve travelers is significantly reduced from 25 seconds to just seven seconds.
Integrated Verification: By combining ticket and travel document verification into a single process, the project streamlines operations and minimizes delays.
Reduced Reliance on Human Resources: Smart gates take over the role of identity verification, freeing up airport staff for other critical tasks.
3. Cost-Effective Solutions
The project offers several financial benefits:
Avoids Infrastructure Expansions: By enhancing operational efficiency, the need for costly infrastructure expansions is eliminated.
Operational Excellence: Abu Dhabi Airports is committed to providing best-in-class passenger services, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience for all.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
Andrew Murphy, CIO at Zayed International Airport
“We are delighted to collaborate with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security to implement this groundbreaking project at our state-of-the-art terminal at Zayed International Airport.
We are dedicated to enhancing the traveler experience by providing efficient and seamless services through advanced biometric systems. By 2025, we aim to expand these systems across all security and operations touchpoints and other airlines.
This partnership will enable Abu Dhabi Airports to continue providing best-in-class passenger services, prioritizing travelers’ security and safety, and delivering an exceptional global travel experience across our airports.”
Saeed Saif Al Khaili, General Director at ICP
“The Biometric Smart Travel project aims to enhance the travel experience at Zayed International Airport from kerb to gate, ensuring high levels of security and safety.
We are pleased to implement this project and collaborate with Abu Dhabi Airports, the leading airport operator in Abu Dhabi, and the emirate’s gateway to the world.
The Biometric Smart Travel project reduces the time to serve travelers from 25 seconds to just seven seconds, integrating ticket and travel document verification into a single process and alleviating the burden on human resources by relying on smart gates for identity verification.”
I'm Haris Ali. I am resident of United Arab Emirates. I've been working with identification documents in UAE for over 8 years. I've gained valuable experience from working with various government authorities in the region, especially with documents like the Emirates ID.
In my free time, I enjoy playing cricket and exploring new destinations around the world.
