UAE develops facial recognition system to replace ID cards
Digital ID to support banks, telecoms, healthcare; roll-out within a year
#UAE #DigitalIdentity – The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICACP) has confirmed the development and testing of a new AI-powered digital ID system that uses facial recognition technology instead of physical Emirates ID cards. The system, accessible via the authority’s smart app, will be rolled out across multiple sectors within a year. Built with risk-based controls and strict data protection compliance, it is part of a phased digital transformation strategy designed to enhance service efficiency and identity verification across the UAE.
SO WHAT? – The UAE has long been at the forefront of biometric and digital ID innovation, and facial recognition for security use cases goes back many years. However, it was in 2021 that the government announced government facial ID trials and approved the use of facial recognition for customer services. As facial ID becomes more commonplace in the country, the move to replace ID cards with facial recognition delivers on one of the grand promises of biometrics: higher levels of security and frictionless user experience.
Here are some key points about the new facial ID plans:
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICACP) has developed a digital ID system using facial recognition and artificial intelligence, eliminating the need for physical Emirates ID cards (the country’s national ID system).
The FR system is integrated into the Authority’s smart application and will be rolled out nationally across key sectors within 12 months.
The new digital ID will enhance identity verification in government services, banking, telecoms, healthcare, hotels, insurance, and more.
The programme is being implemented in phases, starting with services that deliver rapid user benefits, followed by more complex integrations.
Advanced biometric and fingerprint technologies will support the expansion of e-ID services, ensuring accuracy and speed in customer identification.
The approach applies stringent risk controls and complies with UAE data protection laws to ensure trust, security, and sustainability.
The system enables seamless customer experiences and is part of a broader national strategy to lead in smart government service delivery.
The ICACP is working with partners from across the public and private sectors to drive adoption of the new technology.
This initiative aligns with the UAE’s long-standing position as a regional pioneer in smart services and digital government infrastructure.
ZOOM OUT – The UAE’s strategic, phased, and user-focused approach to facial ID sets a benchmark for governments seeking to balance innovation, privacy, and seamless service delivery in the era of AI. In 2021, the UAE government began integrating facial ID into its public services portal UAE Pass, to provide secure access and ease-of-use. The government’s 360 degree strategy aims to will make facial ID a universal access method across all government and commercial services. Four years ago, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) became the first UAE bank to introduce the use of facial recognition to perform instant verification for the opening of new bank accounts. Meanwhile, supermarket chain Carrefour has been running trials of facial ID payments since 2023.
[Written and edited with the assistance of AI]