A detailed explainer published by the Times of India on 17 November breaks down the eligibility criteria, registration steps and on-site etiquette for Dubai’s Smart Gates. While not a policy change, the article answers a surge in traveller queries following GDRFA’s decision to widen gate access the same day.
It confirms that registered UAE citizens, GCC nationals, residents, visa-on-arrival guests with biometric passports, Schengen-visa holders and pre-issued visa holders can breeze through immigration in seconds. Ineligible groups include travellers under 1.2 metres tall, passengers with large strollers, and People of Determination who may need assisted clearance.
![Guide published on who can—and cannot—use Dubai’s Smart Gates]()
The piece walks users through GDRFA’s online “Inquiry for Smart Gate Registration” service and emphasises best practices such as removing eyewear and masks before facial capture. For mobility teams drafting traveller briefings, the guide is a handy reference that can reduce confusion at DXB and DWC during peak season.
The article also notes that most international passengers who have previously exited via Dubai are auto-enrolled—information that could save frequent flyers valuable time at the airport.
With Dubai expecting record December traffic, clear communication of Smart Gate rules will be critical to maintaining the emirate’s reputation for efficient border processes.
It confirms that registered UAE citizens, GCC nationals, residents, visa-on-arrival guests with biometric passports, Schengen-visa holders and pre-issued visa holders can breeze through immigration in seconds. Ineligible groups include travellers under 1.2 metres tall, passengers with large strollers, and People of Determination who may need assisted clearance.
The piece walks users through GDRFA’s online “Inquiry for Smart Gate Registration” service and emphasises best practices such as removing eyewear and masks before facial capture. For mobility teams drafting traveller briefings, the guide is a handy reference that can reduce confusion at DXB and DWC during peak season.
The article also notes that most international passengers who have previously exited via Dubai are auto-enrolled—information that could save frequent flyers valuable time at the airport.
With Dubai expecting record December traffic, clear communication of Smart Gate rules will be critical to maintaining the emirate’s reputation for efficient border processes.
