Over the past two years, passengers' faces have served as their 'passports' at Dubai International Airport's (DXB) Terminal 3. The 'smart travel' system at DXB launched in February 2021, allowing passengers to travel without presenting identification papers.

It is possible to check in for flights and complete immigration formalities without having to show identification documents thanks to the latest biometric technology - a combination of facial and iris recognition.

A DXB website states that arriving and departing passengers can clear passport control in "a matter of seconds" using its "enhanced Smart Gates" that use contactless technology. According to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) - Dubai, verification is done through iris and biometrics.

How to Use Smart Gates for Passport Free Travel?

According to the website of the DXB, passengers who are registered for Smart Gates can pass through by simply looking at the green light without scanning a document.

On the top of the camera, there is a green light. It is mandatory for passengers to remove anything that covers their faces, including masks, glasses, and hats. Make sure your passport and boarding pass are ready in case you need them. 

You can return to the immigration counter located behind the Smart Gate if you are not able to pass through it, according to the GDRFA website.

Does smart Gates Service Charge a Fee?

There are no additional fees associated with the self-service option.

Who Can Use the Smart Gates Service?

Expatriates, GCC nationals, and passengers with biometric passports are eligible to obtain visas upon arrival.

Who Should Not Use the Smart Gates Service? 

-Passengers with large strollers and people of determination.

-Families with children.

-A passenger who is under 15 years of age or less than 1.2 metres tall.

Who Cannot Use the Smart Gates Service?

The GDRFA prohibits the following categories of passengers from using it:

-A pre-registered resident who has spent at least six months outside the UAE.

-Pre-registered passengers with renewed passports and/or nationality.

How Will Passengers Register for Smart Gates?

According to DXB, passengers who have “recently arrived” are “likely to have been registered” immediately upon entering immigration.