What’s On and ‘good’ tell you why you should get an E Gate card to use at Dubai Immigration with your Dubai Visa, and how to get an E Gate card in Dubai.

What does an E-gate card do? With a flash of a card and thumb scan, it enables you to bypass standard passport control at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain airports.

Who qualifies? Anyone over 18 who is a UAE citizen or holds a UAE residency visa.

How much do I have to pay? Increased to Dhs325 as of August 1, 2014.

How long does it last? Two years, then you have to dig out your documents, your old E-gate card and pay all over again.

What documents are required? An original passport with a minimum of 6-months validity (inclusive of your resident visa) and a passport photo.

How long does it take to process? Usually less than one hour.

Where can I get one?

  • Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain airports
  • Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain Naturalisation Departments
  • DNATA Travel Centre – Tel: (04) 3166966
  • Dubai Municipality – Tel: (04) 2064055
  • Jebel Ali Port Passport Office – Tel: (04) 8818777

And what about Smart Gate?

Smart Gate allows residents to clear immigration in just three to five minutes. It is an automated self-service alternative to the traditional border control process of waiting for immigration officers. It uses facial and eye-recognition technology to identify and verify the user.

Residents can register at Dubai International Airport Terminal 1 departures, Terminal 3 arrivals, and Dnata on Sheikh Zayed Road. Both airport centres are open 24 hours a day.

Using Smart Gate
1. Scan your passport’s personal details page
2. Enter into the Smart Gate and stand on the marked footprints.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.
4. Exit when the gate opens and proceed to baggage reclaim.

**UPDATE (August 1, 2014)

Since it’s launch in 2002, E-Gate costs has steadily risen having started at Dhs150. As of August 1, 2014, it will now cost Dhs325. It remains valid for two years and remains open to expatriate residents (with UAE residence visa) and UAE nationals. Users are strongly advised to continue to carry their passports with them while travelling to avoid any problems at entry or exit.