Abu Dhabi Airports is to partner with the country’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) to introduce biometric technology at all identification checkpoints in Zayed International Airport.
Known as the 'Smart Travel Project', the new technology was designed to be rolled out in three phases and will be integrated with the ICP's database to automatically authenticate travellers by using biometric technology.
In the first phase in 2023, Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways implemented the use of biometric systems across traveller registration services, a self-service baggage delivery area and facial recognition verification at e-gates and boarding gates. In the second phase, Abu Dhabi Airports is introducing biometric systems for five more airlines at the check-in and boarding gates and installing e-gates in transit areas for travellers to register their biometric data. In the third phase, the technology will be implemented in Etihad Airways' lounge and duty-free stores.
Reports say the US Transportation Security Administration’s plan to introduce facial recognition systems caused a great deal of controversy, as many felt it would infringe on their privacy. Abu Dhabi has made the biometric facial recognition technology at its airport borders completely voluntary, as travellers can still opt for traditional scans.
