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New mobile immigration service at Dubai airport clears travellers in 12 seconds
‘Click and Travel’ brings passport-control procedures directly to passengers, using biometric technology, facial recognition, and eliminating need for a fixed counter
- PUBLISHED: Mon 7 Sept 2026, 10:35 AM UPDATED: Tue 8 Sept 2026, 1:29 PM
Travellers passing through Dubai’s airports can now complete passport-control procedures without stopping at a traditional counter, following the official launch of a new mobile service that allows officers to process passengers using handheld devices.
The ‘Click and Travel’ service brings passport-control procedures directly to passengers, using biometric technology, facial recognition, electronic passport reading, automated checks and secure connectivity to verify traveler information quickly and accurately.
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The transaction takes about 12 to 15 seconds, helping reduce wait times and improve passenger flow through the airport.
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The service is available to UAE nationals, residents, GCC nationals and visitors, and can be used for both arrival and departure procedures.
Saeed Ahmed Saeed, Deputy Assistant Director of Air Ports Services at Dubai Airports, said the service represents a shift from a fixed passport-control platform to a mobile one that can reach passengers wherever they are.
“Today, you are moving from a fixed passport platform to a mobile passport platform that goes to the passenger to complete their travel procedures,” he said.
The mobile device uses biometric verification or reads the passenger’s electronic passport before officers complete the relevant arrival or departure procedure.
The system gives officers instant access to passenger information and connects directly to official databases through a secure network, allowing procedures to be completed quickly without a conventional fixed counter.
Saeed said the service was tested during the summer and delivered strong results in processing speed and operational efficiency. The mobile approach also gives airports greater flexibility in designing passenger-processing areas, reducing the need for fixed counters in certain locations.
“Today, you do not need a fixed counter in every situation. The mobile device can replace it,” he said.
The service can also assist children and People of Determination who may require additional support. Instead of requiring them to approach a fixed counter, passport officers can take the mobile device to the passenger and complete the necessary procedures.
Once the passport procedure is complete, passengers can proceed directly to the next stage of their journey, whether security screening for departing passengers or customs for arriving travelers.
31,373 passengers processed
The service has already processed 31,373 passengers during its trial period, with each transaction taking approximately 12 to 15 seconds.
Key features include facial recognition, electronic passport reading, instant access to passenger information, and mobile processing capabilities across airport terminals.
The technology combines biometric identification with automated pre-checks, enabling passport officers to verify passengers and complete procedures securely while remaining mobile.
From trial to official launch
The first trial of Click & Travel began in October 2025 at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3, initially focusing on families.
In May 2026, the second phase expanded the trial to all Dubai airport terminals and different traveler categories.
Following the trial period, the service was officially launched on September 7, 2026.
The initiative forms part of Dubai’s wider efforts to redesign government services and re-engineer procedures in line with global standards, while making the travel experience faster and more convenient.
The service was developed in cooperation with key partners, including Dubai Airports and Emirates, as well as other stakeholders involved in passenger processing.
By shifting passport control from fixed counters to mobile devices, Click & Travel aims to reduce waiting times, improve passenger flow, and provide a more seamless experience for travelers moving through Dubai’s airports.
Arwa Almazrouei is an Arabic editor passionate about storytelling and journalism, and creating impactful content that highlights culture, society, and the inspirational.