UAE develops biometric tech to replace physical Emirates ID cards

Abu Dhabi: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has confirmed the development and successful testing of advanced biometric identification systems that eliminate the need for physical Emirates ID cards.

According to the Authority, these advanced systems, built in collaboration with strategic partners, utilise facial recognition and artificial intelligence technologies, accessible via its smart application. These solutions are designed to complement existing identity systems while enhancing security, accuracy, and convenience across sectors.

Target sectors

The biometric ID systems, powered by cutting-edge technology, are designed to be adopted across key sectors such as government, banking, telecommunications, healthcare, hospitality, and insurance industries where precise and secure customer identification is critical.

These systems apply high standards of technical and procedural verification, while complying with national data protection laws and risk management frameworks.

The announcement was made in a written response to the Federal National Council (FNC), addressing a question from Dr. Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi, a member of the Council, about the promotion and implementation of electronic identity solutions to enhance service efficiency.

Strategic roll-out

According to the Authority, the deployment of digital identity solutions is being executed in carefully planned phases. The transition began with the digitisation of simple services to provide immediate benefits to users. More complex services are now being integrated to ensure a smooth and comprehensive shift toward a fully digital ecosystem.

The Authority noted that the full-scale roll-out of these systems across all sectors is expected to be completed within the next year, with initial focus on services mentioned in the FNC inquiry. Strategic partnerships are being pursued with leading organisations to incorporate the biometric systems into their platforms, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to global digital leadership.

“Digital identity is not just a tool — it’s a gateway to better services, stronger security, and greater convenience for everyone,” the Authority stated.

Eliminating bureaucracy

As part of its broader digital transformation strategy, the Authority also launched a set of initiatives under the “Government Bureaucracy Elimination Plan” in August 2024. The flagship campaign, The Month of Eliminating Government Bureaucracy, was designed to raise awareness and spark innovation among government employees and the public.

The initiative included outreach activities at community councils, shopping malls, and service centres throughout all Emirates, inviting citizens and residents to participate in identifying inefficiencies and proposing practical solutions.

Bureaucracy Elimination Award

In line with this campaign, the Bureaucracy Elimination Award was introduced to incentivise innovation within the government sector. Open to all Authority employees, users, and partners, the award encourages the submission of ideas aimed at simplifying procedures and improving service delivery.

Future vision

Reaffirming the UAE’s position as a pioneer in smart governance, the Authority highlighted its ongoing efforts to simplify the lives of citizens, residents, and visitors through seamless digital services. The integration of biometric ID systems and the commitment to bureaucratic reform reflect the nation’s forward-thinking approach to governance and service excellence.