New Click & Travel Airport Service Can Process Travelers in 12–15 Seconds

Dubai has launched Click & Travel, a mobile immigration service that lets passport officers process travelers where they are inside the airport. Using biometric verification, transactions can take about 12–15 seconds. The service is available to all departing passengers and selected arriving passengers in its first phase. DUBAI: Travelers using Dubai airports may now experience faster immigration processing through a new mobile service called Click & Travel. The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai launched the service on September 7, 2026. Instead of relying only on fixed passport-control counters, immigration officers can now use mobile devices to reach passengers and complete entry or departure procedures where they are inside the airport. GDRFA says a transaction can be completed in about 12 to 15 seconds using biometric identity checks and access to its digital systems. The service uses mobile devices connected directly to GDRFA Dubai systems and databases. Passport officers can verify a traveler's identity, check their information, and complete the necessary immigration transaction without requiring the passenger to move to a fixed service point. This setup is meant to help during busy travel periods, emergencies, or situations where airport teams need to manage passenger flow more quickly. At departure, Click & Travel is available to all passengers, including UAE citizens, residents, and visitors. For arrivals, the first phase currently covers UAE citizens and residents. GDRFA says the arrival service will gradually be expanded to more passenger groups based on approved plans and operational needs. The service was already tested before its official launch. From the start of pilot operations in May until August 31, 2026, around 31,373 transactions were completed using Click & Travel. GDRFA says the number shows that the system is ready for use in airport operations and can help reduce waiting points during periods of high passenger traffic. For OFWs and other UAE residents who regularly fly through Dubai, the new service could make airport processing smoother during peak travel seasons. The main benefit is flexibility. Instead of every passenger having to move toward the same immigration counters, officers can be sent to areas where travelers are waiting and complete procedures on the spot. This may help airports respond better during heavy travel periods, especially around holidays and major events. GDRFA says Click & Travel is part of its wider plan to improve smart border services and create a faster, more flexible passenger experience at Dubai airports.