Landing in the UAE? Here’s how to skip the long immigration queue

With a surge in international travel, UAE airports are expected to see heavy passenger traffic in the coming weeks. Long immigration lines can slow arrivals, especially for first-time visitors and residents returning from holiday. However, UAE authorities have put in place digital services and biometric systems that can help travellers complete immigration checks in minutes instead of waiting in queues. From pre-registering through mobile apps to using Smart Gates, these options are available to both residents and eligible visitors, provided they know how to set them up before their journey, as per a Gulf News report.

Fast-track option for first-time visitors to Abu Dhabi

Passengers arriving at Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi, for the first time can use the ‘UAE Fast Track’ app, developed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). By pre-registering passport details, arrival information, and biometric data such as facial recognition and fingerprints, travellers can go directly to smart gates without stopping at registration counters. The app allows the capture of fingerprints using a phone’s camera, removing the need for physical scanning on arrival.


How to use the ‘UAE Fast Track’ app

The registration process involves:

• Selecting the mode of entry - air, land, or sea
• Choosing the entry point and arrival date
• Scanning the passport’s information page using the phone camera
• Taking a live facial photograph
• Capturing right and left-hand fingerprints via the camera
• Providing contact details, local UAE address, and profession

1. For UAE residents

Residents can use Smart Gates at Dubai International Airport and biometric eGates at most major airports, including Zayed International in Abu Dhabi. No prior app registration is needed if biometrics have already been recorded.

2. For visitors travelling to Dubai

Visitors arriving at Dubai International Airport can check if they are registered for Smart Gate use. This can be done on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA) website by selecting ‘Inquiry for Smart Gate Registration’, clicking ‘Start Service’, and entering the passport number. Those who have passed through DXB recently may already be eligible.

Who can use the smart gates

• UAE and GCC Nationals
• UAE residents
• Visa-on-arrival travellers with biometric passports
• Visitors registered during recent arrivals at DXB

Who should avoid smart gates

• People of determination and those with large strollers
• Families with children
• Passengers under 15 years of age or shorter than 1.2 metres

Steps to pass through smart gates

Registered passengers simply look at the green light without scanning a passport. Any face coverings, including masks, glasses, or hats, should be removed. A passport and boarding pass should be kept ready in case verification is needed.

These systems are aimed at reducing wait times from several minutes to seconds, making them useful for frequent travellers and visitors during peak travel periods.