The UAE has taken a major step toward fully digital identity services, with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announcing the successful development and testing of advanced biometric identification systems. These systems, which use facial recognition and artificial intelligence, could eventually replace the need for physical Emirates ID cards.
According to the ICP, the technology, built in collaboration with strategic partners, is already accessible through the Authority’s smart application. “Digital identity is not just a tool — it’s a gateway to better services, stronger security, and greater convenience for everyone,” the Authority said.
Nationwide Rollout Planned by 2026
The biometric ID initiative is being implemented in phases. It began with the digitisation of simpler services to deliver immediate benefits, while more complex services are being gradually integrated. The full-scale deployment is expected to be completed across all major sectors within the next year, with initial attention focused on government services, banking, telecom, healthcare, hospitality, and insurance.
These sectors require high levels of customer verification, and the ICP stated that the biometric system complies with national data protection laws and risk management frameworks.
Response to Federal Inquiry
The announcement came in a written response to a question from Dr. Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi, a member of the Federal National Council (FNC), who inquired about the promotion and adoption of electronic identity systems to improve service efficiency. The ICP emphasized that its digital identity systems are designed to enhance, not replace, existing ID services and infrastructure, while boosting national security and convenience.
Government Bureaucracy Elimination Plan
The biometric initiative is part of a broader digital transformation strategy launched in August 2024. Under the “Government Bureaucracy Elimination Plan,” the Authority held outreach campaigns across all Emirates to involve the public in identifying service inefficiencies and proposing solutions.
To encourage innovation, the ICP introduced the Bureaucracy Elimination Award, which invites Authority employees, users, and partners to submit ideas aimed at simplifying procedures and improving public service.
A Vision for Smart Governance
The ICP underscored its long-term vision of positioning the UAE as a global leader in digital governance. With the integration of biometric identity systems and sustained efforts to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, the Authority aims to simplify everyday life for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.
The UAE’s push toward digital identity reflects a larger national strategy to modernize public services, promote security, and reduce reliance on traditional administrative procedures.
