More than 250,000 use Emirates IDs to exit at Dubai Airports

Dubai, December 29, 2016:  Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai), said the GDRFA is committed to excel in every area and ensure best services to passengers.

The opening of the Dubai Water Canal, which is expected to bring millions of tourists round the year to Dubai, presents before us, at the GDRFA Dubai, challenges to effectively deal with the rise in number of tourists in Dubai and enhance the image of the emirate on the global tourism map, as we expect the number of tourists to Dubai to reach 20 million by 2020. “The visitors would need the best services to make their visit to the UAE through Dubai a memorable one they can cherish for a long time. In line with this vision the GDRFA Dubai will continue to strive toward excellence,” said Al Marri in his message in the latest edition of Manafez Dubai, the official bilingual publication of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai.

Al Marri said the latest among the initiatives toward ensuring excellence is the launch of the facility of using Emirates ID at airports, a step that has been appreciated by all users as they will be able to complete the procedures in a record time of less than 10-15 seconds. 

Major General Obaid Muhair Bin Suroor, Deputy Director General, GDRFA Dubai, said in his message: “Over the past few days, more than 250,000 have used this facility at the 127 eGates at the Dubai International Airport and we expect this number to rise further as more Emirates ID holders realise the convenience it offers and makes travelling through the Dubai International Airport easier and faster.

“This highly advanced service is the first of its kind in the region's airports and will further enhance the reputation of Dubai International Airport as well as ensure happiness and comfort of the passengers, while, at the same time, enhancing the level of approved security procedures,” added Obaid.

The GDRFA Dubai launched 12 new high tech services marking its successful participation in the GITEX Technology Week. GDRFA Dubai showcased its innovative technology projects and smart digital innovations, which are contributing to enhancing the quality of services offered, increase the effectiveness and speeden operations during the five-day technology week.

Al Manaar Forum, which highlights the capabilities of the visually impaired, entered its seventh year. The GDRFA recently organized the forum, which was attended by senior officials, academicians and individuals with visual impairment. 

The latest issue of Manafez Dubai brings news from the GDRFA Dubai, special coverage of the World Passenger Symposium in Dubai, latest technology being used at borders, news from across the UAE, Middle East and International News, in addition to special pages on customer care, travel and health.
According to the latest estimates by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the number of air travelers will nearly double to 7.2 billion by 2035 compared to 3.8 billion in 2016. 

The United Arab Emirates will lead the Middle East growth, reflecting the strength of UAE’s economy and aviation sector in particular. The growth will further trigger new investments and initiatives. Manafez Dubai highlights the growth and changes being witnessed in this direction.

Travel industry is in for major transformation with the introduction of the New Distribution Capability (NDC) standard by IATA, which will enable travelers to enjoy a hassle-free booking of air tickets, plan itinerary, reserve seats and much more.