Biometric smart gates introduced for flydubai crew at Dubai operations centre

NEC has partnered with emaratech to deploy six biometric smart gates at the crew immigration area of flydubai’s Airport Operations Centre in Dubai, introducing automated and contactless identity verification for airline crew.

The solution uses NEC’s NeoFace Express X5 facepods to authenticate crew identities almost instantly, replacing manual document checks with a fully automated, paperless process. Integrated with flydubai’s digital infrastructure and UAE immigration platforms, the system is designed to deliver fast and accurate verification while maintaining high standards of data security and privacy.

The deployment is intended to streamline crew clearance processes in a high-traffic operational environment, supporting more efficient airline operations at one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs.

NEC said its facial recognition technology has consistently ranked highly in evaluations by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology since 2009. In recent assessments, the technology achieved top rankings for identification accuracy, including tests using images taken more than 10 to 12 years apart, reflecting typical passport renewal cycles.

NEC, emaratech power biometric upgrade

Mohamed Shawky, Director of Regional Sales and Strategic Accounts at NEC, said: “This milestone, in partnership with emaratech, reflects our commitment to bringing global innovation into the GCC’s aviation sector. As airlines and airports in the region continue to grow, NEC is delivering biometric and digital identity solutions that combine security with efficiency. Together with our partners, we are shaping a smarter, safer and more seamless travel experience.”

Bill Carleton, Director at NEC Corporation of America, said the integration builds on NEC’s experience at airports worldwide. “NEC is already creating safe and seamless experiences at airports around the world, with thousands of biometric touchpoints in daily use,” he said.

“This integration with emaratech, supporting flydubai’s crew operations, reinforces our role in helping aviation stakeholders modernise mission-critical processes.”

HE Thani Alzaffin, Group Chief Executive Officer of emaratech, said the project strengthens the UAE’s digital identity infrastructure. “Our collaboration with NEC marks a pivotal step in enhancing the UAE’s digital identity infrastructure,” he said.

“By integrating NEC’s top-ranked facial recognition technology into emaratech’s trusted platforms, we are redefining how biometric solutions can streamline and secure critical border control processes.

“This partnership reinforces our commitment to delivering scalable, AI-powered solutions that elevate operational excellence and user trust—today and into the future.”

NEC said it has deployed advanced biometric solutions at more than 80 airports across 50 countries and regions, as aviation stakeholders increasingly adopt AI-driven technologies to improve security, efficiency and user experience.