Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Airports has officially launched a US Customs and Border Protection (US CBP) Preclearance facility at Zayed International Airport (AUH), featuring advanced biometric screening technology for streamlined passenger processing.

The facility, which opened following the airport’s new terminal launch in November 2023, enables passengers to complete all US immigration and customs procedures before departure.

This development builds upon Abu Dhabi’s existing Smart Travel initiative, implemented in partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). Abu Dhabi Airports’ Managing Director and CEO Elena Sorlini states that the facility represents a significant step in streamlining international travel procedures while maintaining security standards.

The preclearance process allows travelers arriving in the US to bypass immigration queues and proceed directly to their connections or final destinations. According to Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves, this capability provides a competitive advantage for the airline’s US routes. The system aligns with broader efforts by US Customs and Border Protection to expand its biometric screening presence at international departure points.

For connecting passengers, the preclearance facility enables direct transfers to domestic flights upon US arrival, as they are processed as domestic arrivals. The implementation required coordination between Abu Dhabi Airports, US CBP, and local authorities to ensure compliance with both UAE and US security protocols.

-B