Video: Retracing Dubai Airport’s smart journey: From e-gates in 2002 to smart tunnel in 2018 and biometrics now

Video: Retracing Dubai Airport’s smart journey: From e-gates in 2002 to smart tunnel in 2018 and biometrics now

Three years later, an asphalt runway was added, as were new hangars and navigational aids, prompting the arrival of international airlines. Fast forward to the present and Dubai is a gleaming metropolis with a state-of-the-art international airport of three terminals, making it the busiest in the world in terms of international traffic. From the introduction of e-cards in 2002 and the UAE Wallet in 2017 to the smart tunnel in 2018 and biometrics now, Dubai Airport's smart journey has made remarkable progress. The airport is now trying out a paper-free experiment, which means no more passports or boarding passes will be required with the traveller's face serving the purpose. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA) utilises the latest biometric technology “” a mix of facial and iris recognition “” so passengers can check in for their flight, complete immigration formalities, enter the Emirates lounge and board their flights, simply by strolling through the airport. Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, director (GDRFA), Dubai, said the new system is a step into the future of travelling as mobilising the biometric path for a seamless journey will cut time and effort for travellers. "All these initiatives are