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