In order to access essential services, the UAE plans to implement a substitute digital identity system that will do away with the requirement to show actual Emirates ID cards. The system, which is anticipated to go live in a year, would expedite service access across many industries by utilising biometric identity and facial recognition.
Expanding the use of e-Emirates IDs in industries like banking, healthcare, hotels, and telecommunications is a current priority for the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).
In spite of the nation’s notable advancements in digital transformation, member Adnan Al Hammadi expressed reservations during a Federal National Council (FNC) meeting regarding the ongoing need for physical Emirates ID cards.
Residents still face difficulties because of this rule, according to Al Hammadi. While banks require physical ID cards for financial transactions, patients still need to present them in order to receive healthcare services. Furthermore, it is frequently impossible for hotel visitors to check in without presenting their genuine Emirates ID.
ICP claims that identification verification will be a problem with the new system, which will be made possible by the UAEPASS app. In addition to encouraging important partners from all industries to integrate these technologies into the authority’s systems, cooperation with a variety of partners will aid in the development and testing of cutting-edge biometric identification systems.
In order to foster trust and preserve the advantages of its intelligent services for all users, the authority takes a clear approach that guarantees compliance with legal requirements and data protection standards.