Dubai Launches 'Click & Travel' Mobile Passport Control, Reducing Airport Queues
Dubai's General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) has introduced 'Click & Travel', a mobile passport control service at Dubai airports designed to expedite passenger processing and enhance oper
Dubai has rolled out 'Click & Travel', a pioneering mobile passport control system at its airports, allowing immigration officers to process passengers remotely using handheld devices. This initiative, from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai), aims to significantly reduce waiting times and improve passenger flow, especially during peak travel periods and urgent situations.
How it Works
The 'Click & Travel' system equips passport control officers with portable devices linked to GDRFA Dubai's core infrastructure and data systems. These devices incorporate biometric identity checks, enabling officers to verify identities and complete arrival or departure procedures in approximately 12 to 15 seconds per passenger. This mobile setup allows officers to approach passengers within terminal buildings, rather than requiring travellers to queue at fixed counters, offering greater flexibility in managing passenger traffic.
Rollout and Eligibility
The service underwent a trial phase from May to August 31, 2026, successfully completing over 31,373 transactions. For departures, 'Click & Travel' is accessible to UAE nationals, residents, and visitors. For arrivals, the initial phase covers UAE citizens and residents, with plans for a phased expansion to include more passenger categories as operational capabilities grow.
Strategic Importance
Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri, Director General of Identity and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai, highlighted that 'Click & Travel' represents a shift towards reimagining the passenger journey, prioritising individual experience through advanced technology. The system enhances the authority's ability to adapt to varying passenger volumes and minimise stationary waiting areas, all while maintaining high security and performance standards. This initiative is part of Dubai's broader strategy to enhance its smart port ecosystem and deliver more flexible, anticipatory, and traveler-centric services.
Questions, answered
- What is 'Click & Travel'?
- 'Click & Travel' is Dubai's new mobile passport control service, allowing immigration officers to process passenger arrivals and departures using handheld devices directly within airport terminals.
- How long does the mobile passport control process take?
- Officers can complete arrival or departure formalities using the 'Click & Travel' system in approximately **12 to 15 seconds** per passenger, including biometric identity checks.
- Who is eligible to use 'Click & Travel'?
- For departures, the service is open to UAE nationals, residents, and visitors. For arrivals, it initially covers UAE citizens and residents, with plans for future expansion to other passenger groups.
- When was 'Click & Travel' tested?
- The service underwent a trial phase from May to August 31, **2026**, during which it successfully handled over 31,373 transactions.
- What is the main goal of 'Click & Travel'?
- The primary goal is to boost passenger movement and operational effectiveness by enabling passport control staff to reach passengers directly, reducing queues at stationary counters and enhancing overall airport efficiency.
This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.
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