Smart travel system processes 9.4 million passengers at Dubai airports in six months
‘Red Carpet’ service cuts traveller processing time to just 3.4 seconds, says GDRFA Dubai
Dubai: The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai has revealed that more than 9.4 million travellers completed their airport procedures using Dubai Airports’ smart travel technologies during the first half of 2026.
According to the authority, a total of 9,464,057 travellers used the integrated smart travel system, which includes smart gates and the borderless travel service known as “Red Carpet”.
Smart gates lead passenger traffic
The figures show that 9,025,000 travellers used smart gates to complete their travel procedures, reinforcing their role as the main channel for automated border processing at Dubai Airports.
Meanwhile, 439,321 travellers used the Red Carpet service, which represents the latest generation of smart border technologies.
Fastest transit experience
GDRFA Dubai said the borderless travel service offers what it described as the fastest transit experience of its kind globally, helping strengthen Dubai Airports' position as a leading model for operational efficiency and traveller experience.
The authority stated that the system has reduced passenger processing time by 60%, cutting the average transit time from 12.5 seconds to just 3.4 seconds.
Zero documents, zero contact
The Red Carpet service is built on a borderless travel concept that relies on artificial intelligence and biometric recognition technologies.
It enables eligible travellers to complete entry and exit procedures while walking through designated areas without stopping, presenting documents or interacting with processing points.
According to GDRFA Dubai, the system is capable of processing up to 10 travellers simultaneously, creating a seamless travel experience based on zero documents and zero contact points.
Advancing smart travel
The authority said the service represents the most advanced stage of Dubai’s smart travel journey and reflects the emirate's commitment to developing innovative airport technologies.
By eliminating physical document checks and reducing transit times, the system enhances the passenger experience while reinforcing the status of Dubai Airports among the world's most advanced aviation hubs.