UAE Moves to Digital Emirates ID
<p><strong>UAE to Launch Digital Emirates ID, Replacing Physical Cards with Biometric Verification</strong></p><p>Abu Dhabi: The UAE is set to introduce a <strong>digital identification system</strong> that will remove the need for physical Emirates ID cards when accessing essential services. Slated for launch within the next year, the system will leverage <strong>facial recognition and biometric technology</strong> to streamline identity verification across sectors such as <strong>banking, healthcare, hospitality, and telecommunications</strong>.</p><p>The <strong>Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP)</strong> is spearheading the expansion of <strong>e-Emirates IDs</strong> across these critical areas. During a <strong>Federal National Council (FNC)</strong> session, member Adnan Al Hammadi highlighted challenges residents face when accessing services without their physical IDs.</p><p>Responding to these concerns, Minister <strong>Abdul Rahman Al Owais</strong> confirmed that the e-Emirates ID is already in use for many services and that broader adoption is a priority. The biometric facial recognition service was first introduced at <strong>GITEX 2021</strong> through the <strong>UAEPASS app</strong>, the UAE’s secure national digital identity platform, allowing citizens and residents to access digital versions of official documents.</p><p>ICP is working closely with partners across sectors to <strong>test advanced biometric technologies</strong>, ensuring compliance with data protection laws while building public trust in the country’s <strong>smart digital services</strong>.</p>