Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates has announced the launch of the pilot phase of the 'One-Point Air Travelers' Project in collaboration with the Kingdom of Bahrain. The initiative aims to facilitate travel for citizens of both countries, saving time and effort, and reducing waiting times at participating airports. It is also expected to boost trade flows, support economic growth and security stability, strengthen regional cooperation, and advance infrastructure integration between the two nations.
According to Emirates News Agency, in the UAE, the project is implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, while in the Kingdom of Bahrain, it is managed by the Ministry of Interior, in cooperation with the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and relevant entities in both countries. The first phase of implementation covers Zayed International Airport and Bahrain International Airport.
The 'One-Point Air Travelers' Project enables pre-departure clearance for citizens traveling by air between the UAE and Bahrain at the point of departure. Through electronic connectivity, biometric verification systems, surveillance technologies, e-gates, and advanced passenger data processing, travelers' movements are verified and documented before arrival at their final destination. This process allows citizens to complete entry procedures at their departure airports, reducing congestion and accelerating entry processes.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, affirmed that the project represents an initiative reflecting the commitment of GCC countries to facilitating passenger journeys. He emphasized the Authority's commitment to strengthening cooperation and partnerships locally, regionally, and internationally through electronic connectivity and advanced technologies.
Mohammed Ahmed Al Kuwaiti, Acting Director-General of Ports at the Authority, stated that the project embodies a shared vision to facilitate mobility and improve quality of life through smart solutions driven by digital transformation and governmental integration. He affirmed that electronic connectivity and the advance exchange of integrated data ensure the highest standards of accuracy and security.
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, commented on the airline's partnership in the initiative, highlighting its alignment with their vision of delivering an exceptional guest experience. He added that the project represents a milestone that places the region at the forefront of the global aviation sector and reflects the UAE's leadership in leveraging advanced technologies to enhance the passenger experience.