Technological revolution in the United Arab Emirates: innovations at Gitex Global 2023
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, and the 2023 edition of Gitex Global in Dubai was no exception. This year’s event highlighted two major advances in biometrics and facial recognition, promising to revolutionize the travel experience and the identification of citizens and visitors.
The facial recognition robot at Abu Dhabi Airport
One of the highlights of Gitex Global 2023 was the unveiling of a facial recognition robot at Abu Dhabi Airport. This robot, equipped with multiple advanced cameras and sensors, is capable of simultaneously analyzing the body language and facial expressions of five to seven people, up to six meters away. Its role is to facilitate the customs process and answer travelers’ questions, all in their preferred language. More than just a control tool, this robot represents a step forward towards a seamless, personalized, and secure travel experience.
Biometric kiosks: a new era for identification
In parallel, the UAE is deploying innovative biometric kiosks, an initiative of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). These kiosks allow residents and visitors to submit their biometric data, renew their passports, and process their IDs at any time. The introduction of this technology aims to eliminate the need to schedule an appointment at an ICP service center, thus offering a more practical and accessible solution. Additionally, these kiosks will be equipped with printers to issue passports and visas on-site.
Impact and future prospects
The impact of these innovations goes beyond simplifying administrative procedures and travel security. They illustrate the UAE’s ambition to position itself as a global leader in technology and intelligent infrastructure. The deployment of these technologies is planned for 2023 or 2024, following a successful trial phase. These initiatives promise not only to improve user experience but also to lay the groundwork for a future where biometric technology is seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. With these advancements, the UAE is establishing itself as a fertile ground for innovation and a model to follow in adopting the technologies of tomorrow.
