Dubai has launched a mobile immigration service that allows passport control officers to complete entry and departure procedures at a passenger's location inside airport terminals during peak periods and emergencies, according to Gulf Business.

The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) said the new "Click & Travel" service uses mobile devices integrated with its systems and databases, combined with biometric verification technology, to verify passengers and complete transactions in approximately 12 to 15 seconds. The authority described it as the world's first mobile service designed to complete airport entry and departure procedures during peak periods and emergencies.

The service removes the need for passengers to reach a fixed passport control point when deployed, instead allowing immigration officers to move through the terminal and complete required procedures wherever travellers are located. GDRFA reported that the service had completed approximately 31,373 transactions between the start of pilot operations in May and August 31 this year.

At departure, Click & Travel is available to all passengers, including UAE citizens, residents, and visitors. For arriving passengers, the first phase covers UAE citizens and residents only, with GDRFA saying the service would be expanded gradually in line with approved plans and operational requirements.

The authority said the mobile system could be deployed during periods of increased passenger traffic and operational pressure, giving airport teams greater flexibility in managing passenger flows and allocating resources according to need.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, was quoted as saying, "We place people at the heart of the development process and harness advanced technologies to create an easier and more efficient travel experience." He added that with Click & Travel, "instead of passengers having to seek the service, the service comes to them, enabling passport control officers to complete their procedures at their location quickly, securely, and flexibly."

Al Marri said the more than 31,000 transactions completed so far reflected the service's readiness and ability to operate efficiently within the airport environment.

Major General Talal Ahmed Al Shanqiti, Assistant Director General for Airports at GDRFA Dubai, said the service was designed to increase operational flexibility, reduce waiting points, and improve passenger flows while maintaining security and efficiency.

GDRFA said it is continuing to develop Click & Travel and is exploring expanding the mobile system beyond entry and departure procedures to other services associated with the passenger journey, subject to approved operational and security requirements.

Source: Gulf Business