The United Arab Emirates has implemented a facial recognition system to weed out those attempting to enter the country to cause harm. The first deployment has been installed in the Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Compiled by Erin J. Fellores, Managing Editor

   
This installation represents the first phase of an anticipated nation-wide deployment in which CryptoMetrics is expected to implement the system. This deployment makes the the first country to implement a proactive critical infrastructure protection and warning system using facial recognition on a comprehensive national basis.

   
The system was launched at Abu Dhabi International Airport in July by General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, at which time he affirmed the commitment of the UAE, under the leadership of the President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to do everything possible to maintain the country’s security.

   
Officials said that the system allows critical identification checks to be performed from a distance, without a person’s active participation. The system also helps inspectors at control points inside airports to facilitate the clearance of persons without inconvenience or delay to the passengers, while implementing continuous and proactive checks designed to immediately detect persons who should be denied entry or detained.

   
Major Fawaz Badran al Qaraeen of the Ministry of Interior stated, “(The system was implemented) according to instructions by General H.H. Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan – Minister of Interior – to enhance security procedures and detect persons who might pose a threat to the State.”

   
Major Qaraeen further added, “The system can identify persons live or from photographs. It can even identify persons while they are moving with a high degree of accuracy. Working in conjunction with the other aspects of our security apparatus, the wanted person detection system will significantly enhance the security of our citizens and the millions of people who visit the UAE each year.”