UAE, Bahrain roll out One-Point Air Travelers pilot to transform airport clearance
Biometric systems and e-gates speed up cross-border passenger processing
ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates and the Bahrain have launched the pilot phase of the One-Point Air Travelers Project, introducing a new pre-departure clearance system designed to simplify and accelerate air travel between the two countries.
The initiative allows citizens to complete entry procedures at their airport of departure rather than on arrival. Officials say the scheme is intended to reduce waiting times, ease congestion, and improve the overall passenger journey.
The pilot programme is being rolled out initially at Zayed International Airport and Bahrain International Airport. It is supported by cross-border digital connectivity and advanced verification systems that enable authorities to process traveller data securely before flights land. The project also forms part of wider regional integration efforts across the Gulf Cooperation Council.
One-Point Air Travelers project
In the UAE, the project is being implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. In Bahrain, it is led by the Ministry of Interior, working in coordination with the GCC General Secretariat and other relevant entities in both countries.
Under the system, citizens travelling between the two states can complete entry clearance procedures before departure through integrated digital platforms. Authorities use biometric verification, surveillance technologies, e-gates, and advanced passenger data processing to verify and document traveller movements. As a result, entry steps are completed in advance, enabling faster processing upon arrival and smoother airport flows.
Officials say the model is designed to support infrastructure integration, strengthen security coordination, and encourage higher volumes of tourism and bilateral trade through more efficient mobility.
Smart systems
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of the UAE authority, described the One-Point Air Travelers Project as an innovative step reflecting GCC commitment to safer and more convenient passenger journeys. He said the initiative demonstrates how regional cooperation and advanced technology can be combined to enhance travel while maintaining strict security standards.
He highlighted the role of electronic connectivity, data exchange systems, and biometric tools in improving customer journeys and operational quality. According to him, the project supports broader goals of regional and international partnership, while contributing to quality of life through faster and more reliable services.
He also noted that transforming both airports into advanced departure hubs would help stimulate tourism and economic activity, while reinforcing customs and security integration across borders.
Regional integration
Mohammed Ahmed Al Kuwaiti, Acting Director-General of Ports at the authority, said the project reflects a high level of strategic integration between the two countries. He described it as a practical example of a shared vision focused on mobility, smart services, and government digital transformation.
He said advance exchange of integrated data between authorities ensures accuracy, procedural efficiency, and security safeguards, while also protecting privacy. The system is built to maintain high standards of data protection alongside faster processing.
He characterised the pilot as a scalable regional model for smart mobility across GCC states, with potential expansion based on operational outcomes and passenger demand. The framework is designed to support tourism and business travel while strengthening the role of regional airports as smart gateways.
Etihad Airways’ role
Etihad Airways is a participating partner in the pilot on routes between Abu Dhabi and Bahrain. Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer, said the airline views the initiative as a major step in redefining the travel experience on this corridor.
He said Emirati and Bahraini passengers flying with the carrier between the two pilot airports will be able to complete entry procedures in advance and move from departure gate to destination with fewer formalities on arrival. The approach aligns with the airline’s focus on improving guest experience through technology-enabled services that begin before boarding.
He added that the programme establishes a foundation for a broader smart travel ecosystem that could extend to additional destinations.