The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has confirmed the successful development and testing of advanced biometric identification systems that will eliminate the need for physical Emirates ID cards. This innovative technology uses facial recognition and artificial intelligence, accessible through its smart application, to enhance security, accuracy, and convenience across various sectors.

The biometric ID systems are set to be adopted in key sectors including government, banking, telecommunications, healthcare, hospitality, and insurance, where secure customer identification is essential. These systems meet high standards of technical and procedural verification while adhering to national data protection laws and risk management frameworks.

The announcement came in response to a question from Dr. Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi, a member of the Federal National Council (FNC), inquiring about the promotion and implementation of electronic identity solutions. The Authority stated that the deployment of these digital identity solutions will occur in carefully planned phases, starting with the digitization of simpler services to provide immediate user benefits before integrating more complex services.

The full-scale roll-out of these biometric systems across all sectors is expected to be completed within the next year, with an initial focus on services highlighted in the FNC inquiry. The Authority is also pursuing strategic partnerships with leading organizations to integrate the biometric systems into their platforms, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to global digital leadership. The Authority emphasized that “Digital identity is not just a tool — it’s a gateway to better services, stronger security, and greater convenience for everyone.”

As part of its digital transformation strategy, the Authority initiated the “Government Bureaucracy Elimination Plan” in August 2024. This effort includes the flagship campaign, The Month of Eliminating Government Bureaucracy, aimed at raising awareness and fostering innovation among both government employees and the public. Outreach activities have taken place at community councils, shopping malls, and service centers throughout the Emirates, encouraging citizens and residents to identify inefficiencies and suggest practical solutions.

Additionally, the Bureaucracy Elimination Award was introduced to motivate innovation within the government sector. This award is open to all Authority employees, users, and partners, encouraging the submission of ideas that aim to simplify procedures and enhance service delivery.

The Authority reaffirmed the UAE’s position as a leader in smart governance, highlighting its continuous 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 illustrate the nation’s forward-thinking approach to governance and service excellence.