Smart Travel option at the Zayed International Airport was displayed recently at GITEX Global Dubai. In keeping with its seamless journey experience the UAE has taken a step further ensuring that the passengers no longer have to wait long hours in the queue instead they can receive a quick entrance through the special gates at the terminal. The passenger’s biometric fingerprints are captured and available across all the crossing points. The boarding pass has all the information about the traveller which is captured, hence they can travel with ease. H.E. Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili added: “The Smart Travel Project is one of the most important pioneering projects in the field of travel, as it contributes to the development of the passenger’s journey at Zayed International Airport by capturing the passenger’s biometric fingerprints at all crossing points used electronically by passengers during the travel trip, by installing biometric capture devices that identify the traveler by scanning the face print without the need to present the passport or boarding pass at any of the seven crossing points that The traveler passes through it. His Excellency stated that the project achieves many advantages and added value for passengers, airports, airlines, as well as ports and passport departments, pointing out that the project provides travelers with an enjoyable, comfortable and effort-free personal travel experience by crossing travelers from crossing points in an easy, smart and smooth way.
Read More »Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways join the global network of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways are taking a significant step towards creating a more supportive travel experience with the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and onboard Etihad Airways flights. This initiative underscores both organisations’ commitment to supporting all passengers, particularly those with non-visible disabilities. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, a globally recognised symbol for non-visible disabilities, is now available at Zayed International Airport (AUH). This programme provides a discreet way for passengers with conditions like autism, chronic pain, or anxiety to signal to staff that they may require additional assistance or compassion. Passengers can pick up their complimentary Sunflower lanyards at the two dedicated Special Assistance desks located in the pre-check-in area of AUH, allowing them to discreetly communicate their needs and fostering a more supportive environment for all. “At Abu Dhabi Airports, we are dedicated to providing a seamless and inclusive travel experience for every passenger,” said Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports. “The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme is a natural extension of this commitment, empowering passengers with non-visible disabilities to discreetly communicate their needs and receive the support they deserve throughout their journey at Zayed International Airport. It’s about recognising that the kindest gestures are the ones that acknowledge unseen challenges. This means our staff are now even better equipped to assist passengers who may require a little extra time, understanding, or assistance, ensuring a smoother and more positive experience for everyone.” To ensure the programme’s success, both AUH and Etihad Airways have implemented comprehensive staff training. Frontline teams from the airport, its stakeholders and business partners have undergone specialised training to better understand the …
Read More »Yas Island unveils all-new Airport Lounge at Zayed International Airport
Yas Island Abu Dhabi launched Yas Island Lounge – a sophisticated space situated at the arrival’s hall of the state-of-the-art Zayed International Airport. This latest addition to Zayed International Airport’s impressive array of facilities further enhances the guest experience providing a seamless transition from arrival to their preferred choice of stay in Abu Dhabi. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by a dedicated Yas Concierge team, ready to assist with all their holiday needs. Officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations and Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, the lounge aims to provide travellers with a warm and informative welcome to the world-class attractions and experiences Yas Island offers. The lounge offers a relaxing environment where travellers can unwind after their journey, discover Yas Island’s attractions, book experiences while enjoying complimentary refreshments. Additionally, guests will have access to a selection of retail merchandise and the latest Yas Island Magazine, which features exclusive news, offers and upcoming events, serving as a perfect guide to discovering a world of entertainment options on the 25 sq. km island. Yas Island Airport Lounge will also feature the Yas Explorer Passport, designed to enhance every visitor’s Yas’ experience by encouraging exploration and engagement. Upon picking up their Yas Explorer Passport, visitors can register online via a QR code, allowing them to participate in exciting draws. As they explore various locations on Yas Island, guests collect stamps and earn points, which can later be redeemed for exclusive rewards for adults, kids and even the littlest of adventurers. Liam Findlay, CEO of Miral Destinations, said: “We are thrilled to introduce the Yas Island Airport Lounge to …
Read More »Abu Dhabi Airports and ICP partner to launch the world’s first-of-its-kind Smart Travel project
Abu Dhabi Airports has partnered with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security to introduce the biometric Smart Travel project based on biometric standards at Zayed International Airport. In collaboration with Next 50, which specialises in AI-based transportation solutions, the project will be rolled out in three phases to integrate biometric authentication systems across all security and operations touchpoints at the airport. The project utilises the databases of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security to automatically authenticate travellers using biometric technology, eliminating the need for prior registration for departing passengers. Through the implementation of this project, Abu Dhabi Airports aims to uphold the highest aviation security and safety protocols within the airport, improve traveller experience and streamline the travel process for passengers. As part of the launch of the new terminal at Zayed International Airport in November 2023, Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways implemented the biometric systems across multiple touchpoints at the airport. This includes automated traveller registration service, self-service baggage delivery, and facial recognition verification at e-gates and boarding gates, without the need for travel documents or direct interaction with airport staff. Abu Dhabi Airports has begun implementing a further phase of this project by introducing biometric systems for five additional airlines at check-in, all boarding gates and the installation of new e-gates in designated transit areas to register travellers’ biometric data and facilitate facial recognition. The future expansion also includes the Etihad Airways lounge and duty-free retail outlets. Andrew Murphy, Chief Information Officer at Zayed International Airport, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security to implement this groundbreaking project at our …
Read More »Zayed International Airport revolutionizes passenger experience with IDEMIA’s biometric solutions, over 1 million passengers processed
Zayed International Airport has successfully processed over one million passengers through Abu Dhabi’s new terminal since its inauguration on 15 November 2023. This marks a significant milestone in the journey towards enhanced travel efficiency and security, showcasing the power of cutting-edge biometric technology. Building on a long-term commitment to advancing airport capabilities, IDEMIA has been at the forefront of innovation in the UAE since 2011. The deployment of a comprehensive border management solution at Abu Dhabi Airport, featuring the world’s first multi-biometric entry/exit system, has significantly bolstered border security while simultaneously enhancing the passenger experience and throughput. The success of this groundbreaking project has led to its extension to the country’s four other international airports. The Single Token Journey (STJ) solution, a highlight of this collaboration, employs advanced facial recognition technology to streamline the passenger experience. By assigning a unique digital identifier to every traveler, the STJ solution eliminates the need for multiple documents, enabling passengers to move from curb to gate, including the border clearance step, in a record time of just 12 minutes. Elena Sorlini, MD and CEO, Zayed International Airport said: “The initial rollout of cutting-edge biometrics at Zayed International Airport underscores our dedication to enhancing airport experiences through innovation and technology, ensuring efficiency, convenience, and superior service. Once fully implemented, Abu Dhabi will pioneer as the world’s first airport with biometrics integrated at every stage, ensuring travelers enjoy a seamless, safe, and secure journey.” Osama Al Makhamreh, Vice President, Sales – Middle East & Africa, IDEMIA Public Security commented on this achievement: “We are thrilled to witness the transformative impact of our biometric solutions at Zayed International Airport’s new terminal. This milestone is not just a …
Read More »Zayed International Airport check-in services launch at Yas Mall
Miral, in collaboration with The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Abu Dhabi Airports and OACIS ME LLC, an off-airport baggage processing solutions provider, has launched airport check-in services at The Fountains at Yas Mall. The collaboration allows guests and their families the opportunity to explore dining experiences, shopping and entertainment at Yas Mall, as well as theme parks Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and CLYMB™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi prior to departure, supporting guests to optimise their time before take-off. Available exclusively for Etihad Airways and Air Arabia flights, the initiative aims to elevate the overall travel experience for guests and their families. The user-friendly process simplifies and saves time for UAE residents and international visitors before embarking on travel plans. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: “As we unveil the revolutionary airport check-in at The Fountains at Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, it is a testament to our relentless efforts to position Yas Island as a global destination for leisure and entertainment, while contributing to making Abu Dhabi a top tourism hub. We believe in creating memorable moments that matter for our guests, and this transformative service is poised to redefine the way our guests embark on their journeys, seamlessly, efficiently and distinctly.” Titten Yohannan, Chairman and CEO at OACIS Middle East, said: “We are thrilled to announce the strategic partnership between OACIS and Miral, which brings forth the YAS Mall City check-in activation. This collaboration, in conjunction with the launch of futuristic Abu Dhabi Terminal A, is a testament to our joint commitment to enhancing Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a top tourist destination. The YAS Mall City Check-in reflects the …
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