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No more Emirates ID? UAE to replace physical cards with face scan tech

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The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced the successful testing of new biometric ID systems that could replace the need for physical Emirates ID cards.

These high-tech systems use facial recognition and artificial intelligence (AI), and can be accessed through the Authority’s smart app. Developed with the help of key partners, the new technology aims to improve security, accuracy, and ease of use without replacing the current ID system just yet.

Where It Will Be Used

The new digital ID system is expected to be rolled out across major sectors, including government, banking, telecoms, healthcare, hospitality, and insurance, all areas where secure and accurate identification is vital.

The ICP has confirmed that these systems follow strict technical checks and data protection laws, ensuring safety and privacy for users.

This update was shared in a written response to a Federal National Council (FNC) member’s question about how electronic IDs can improve public services.

Step-by-Step Roll-Out

The ICP explained that the switch to digital identity is being carried out in phases. It began with the digitalisation of basic services and is now expanding to more complex ones. The full roll-out is expected within a year, starting with the services mentioned by the FNC.

The Authority is working with top organisations to bring the new systems into their platforms, supporting the UAE’s goal of becoming a global leader in digital innovation.

“Digital identity is more than just a tool — it opens the door to better services, stronger security, and more convenience,” the Authority said.

Cutting Red Tape

As part of its wider digital transformation, the ICP launched a campaign in August 2024 to reduce government bureaucracy. Called The Month of Eliminating Government Bureaucracy, the campaign encouraged both government workers and the public to suggest ways to improve services.

Events were held in shopping centres, community spaces, and service centres across the Emirates to gather feedback and ideas.

Award for Innovation

To support the campaign, the ICP introduced the Bureaucracy Elimination Award. Open to employees, service users, and partners, the award recognises ideas that help make government processes simpler and more efficient.

(Source: GN)

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Crime

Dubai Police warn against illegal fireworks use, trading: Violators face jail and Dh100,000 fine

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Dubai Police has issued a warning to the public against the use, possession, or trading of fireworks and firecrackers, stressing the dangers they pose to lives, property, and community safety.

In a social media post, the police urged residents to avoid illegal fireworks and reminded them that violators will face legal consequences under UAE law.

Authorities called on the public to report any incidents involving the possession, use, or sale of fireworks by contacting the 901 Call Centre. Officials noted that trading fireworks without a licence can result in up to one year in prison and a fine of up to Dh100,000.

Safety reminder to residents

In another message shared online, Dubai Police urged residents to act responsibly when it comes to fireworks.

“Fireworks may sparkle for seconds, but the consequences can last forever. Choose safety, choose responsibility. Protect yourself and the ones you love with one conscious decision,” the police said.

The warning comes amid ongoing enforcement efforts across the UAE to combat the illegal trade and misuse of fireworks.

Major seizure of illegal fireworks in Sharjah

Recently, Sharjah Police arrested a man who was found in possession of 18,670 illegal fireworks.

Police said the suspect was also using his vehicle to promote the sale of fireworks. The arrest followed careful monitoring by specialised police teams, who tracked the suspect before identifying the storage location.

After completing legal procedures, authorities confirmed the large quantity of fireworks stored illegally.

What UAE law says

Under Article 54 of Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2019 on Weapons, Ammunition, Explosives, Military Material and Hazardous Substances, trading in illegal fireworks is considered a criminal offence in the UAE.

Anyone who imports, exports, manufactures, sells, or transports fireworks without a licence can face imprisonment for at least one year and a minimum fine of Dh100,000, or either penalty.

Authorities continue to urge residents to follow safety regulations and report illegal activities to help maintain public safety across the country.

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UAE waives overstay fines for travellers unable to depart due to flight suspensions

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The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security has announced a waiver of fines for travellers who were unable to leave the country on time due to exceptional circumstances that caused regional airspace closures and the suspension of several flights.

The authority said the decision applies to individuals whose departure was delayed because of factors beyond their control, including visitors on visit visas, tourist visas, or exit permits. It also covers residents who had cancelled their residency permits in preparation for leaving the country but were unable to travel due to flight disruptions.

According to the authority, the exemption covers all overstay fines incurred from February 28, 2026 onward, allowing affected travellers to regularise their legal status without incurring financial penalties linked to the unexpected travel disruptions.

Officials explained that the measure was introduced after many travellers were unable to depart on their scheduled dates because flights were either suspended or rescheduled during the airspace closures. The decision reflects the UAE’s humanitarian approach to handling emergencies and supporting visitors facing exceptional circumstances.

The authority added that specialised teams across the country’s airports and Customer Happiness Centres remain operational under emergency and business continuity plans. These teams are working closely with relevant authorities to assist travellers affected by delayed or rescheduled flights and to ensure that procedures are handled smoothly.

The UAE government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting travellers and visitors during difficult situations, highlighting the country’s values of tolerance, solidarity and humanitarian responsibility.

Officials also urged affected individuals to follow official government channels for the latest updates and any regulatory measures related to the situation. The authority stressed that it remains fully prepared to maintain service continuity and provide support to travellers under all conditions.

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Business

Dubai to host ‘Billionaires for Peaceconclave as global movement calls for values-driven leadership

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As geopolitical tensions and conflicts intensify across the world, a growing global initiative is calling for renewed focus on peace, dialogue and shared human values.

The I Am Peacekeeper Movement is stepping up efforts ahead of the upcoming Billionaires for Peace Conclave, scheduled to take place in Dubai this May.

Founded by humanitarian leader Huzaifa Khorakiwala, the movement promotes seven core values — truth, gratitude, forgiveness, love, humility, giving and patience — as the foundation for inner harmony and lasting global peace.

“Peace is not merely the absence of conflict. It is a shared responsibility rooted in how we live, act and lead,” Khorakiwala said. “In a world facing unprecedented challenges, aligning our values with our actions is more important than ever.”

Global movement for peace

Launched in Dubai, the I Am Peacekeeper Movement aims to unite individuals, institutions and communities under a shared mission of harmony and mutual understanding.

The initiative has rapidly expanded into a global platform engaging millions of advocates worldwide through digital campaigns, grassroots networks and international events.

Organisers say the upcoming Billionaires for Peace Conclave will bring together influential leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers to explore ways to advance peace-building, ethical leadership and global cooperation.

Building on a global peace summit

The initiative builds on the momentum generated by the Global Justice Love & Peace Summit held in April last year.

The summit brought together 10 Nobel Peace Laureates on a single stage and concluded with the release of a Peace Charter encouraging global solidarity, dialogue and values-driven leadership.

Organisers say the movement’s focus on “lived values” aligns closely with the UAE’s longstanding commitment to tolerance, coexistence and cross-cultural dialogue.

With Dubai hosting the upcoming conclave, supporters hope the city will once again serve as a global platform for conversations on peace and shared human responsibility.

About the movement

The I Am Peacekeeper Movement is a global initiative founded by Dr Huzaifa Khorakiwala to promote universal peace through core human values. Launched in Dubai, the movement engages communities worldwide through advocacy, education and international events such as the Global Justice Love & Peace Summit and the Billionaires for Peace Conclave.

More information is available at: www.i-am-peacekeeper.com

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