UAE Unveils ‘Fast Track’ Biometric App to Clear Immigration in 90 Seconds

The Federal Authority for Identity (ICP) has launched the “UAE Fast Track” app, allowing passengers at Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah airports to complete immigration in under 90 seconds using facial recognition.

On January 18, 2026, the UAE officially activated the “UAE Fast Track” smartphone application, a revolutionary tool designed to eliminate long passport-control lines at major airports. After a one-time enrollment—capturing a passport scan, selfie, and fingerprints—travelers can simply walk through Smart Gates on arrival. Facial-recognition cameras match biometrics to databases, opening the gate in typically under 90 seconds. This service shaves up to 30 minutes off total journey time and is valid throughout 2026 for those registered in January.