Dubai International Airport launched a new Smart Gates PreCheck service in July 2026 to speed up passport control for eligible travellers. The system works with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai to let passengers verify their eligibility before reaching immigration.
Travellers can access the tool through the DXB Pocket Flights platform on a smartphone browser, meaning there is no need to download a separate application. After selecting the Smart Gates PreCheck option, the service requests permission to use the phone's camera. Users then open their passport to the photo page and position it within the scanning frame on the screen. The system reads the passport information and checks it against Smart Gate eligibility records, displaying a result within seconds. QR codes positioned around passport control areas at DXB allow passengers to access the same service on arrival.
An approved PreCheck result means the passenger can proceed to an available Smart Gate at passport control. At the gate, travellers stand on the marked position and face the biometric camera. Passengers may be asked to remove items such as hats, glasses or masks that cover their face. They then follow the instructions displayed by the gate and look towards the indicated light. The facial recognition system compares the traveller's biometric information with immigration records. If the verification is successful, the gate opens and the passenger can continue through passport control. For registered users, the process generally does not require them to scan their passport again at the gate. However, passengers should keep their passport and boarding pass with them throughout their journey in case immigration or airport staff request them.
Smart Gates PreCheck does not replace passport control, Frequently asked questions How does DXB Smart Gates PreCheck work DXB Smart Gates PreCheck allows travellers to scan passports via smartphone to skip lines at Dubai International Airport by verifying their eligibility before reaching immigration
What is Smart Gates PreCheck
Smart Gates PreCheck is a service launched in July 2026 that speeds up passport control for eligible travellers at Dubai International Airport
Do I need to download an app for DXB Smart Gates
No, travellers can access the Smart Gates PreCheck tool through the DXB Pocket Flights platform on a smartphone browser without needing to download a separate application
Can I use Smart Gates PreCheck at any time
Smart Gates PreCheck does not replace passport control, but an approved result means the passenger can proceed to an available Smart Gate at passport control
How long does DXB Smart Gates PreCheck take
The system reads the passport information and checks it against Smart Gate eligibility records, displaying a result within seconds
