One-Point Air Travelers pilot: Zayed International and Bahrain International Airports adopt pre-departure clearance

Pre-departure clearance activated at two international hubs

The UAE and the Kingdom of Bahrain have activated a pilot phase of the One-Point Air Travelers system, enabling citizens flying between Zayed International Airport and Bahrain International Airport to complete entry procedures at their airport of departure via a pre-departure clearance platform that leverages biometric verification, e-gates and advanced passenger data processing.

How the system operates at a glance

Departure airports will perform identity checks, risk assessments and document validation before boarding, using electronic connectivity between the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (UAE) and Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior. The aim is to verify and document travelers’ movements prior to arrival to reduce queuing and speed up processing times.

Key technologies and operational effects

Practical implications for airport transfers and taxis

With entry formalities completed before touchdown, curbside congestion at arrivals is expected to decrease, which affects how taxi, limousine and private transfer services operate:

• Shorter wait times — drivers can plan precise pickup windows and reduce idle time.
• Improved scheduling — transfer companies and chauffeurs can sync arrival times more exactly using passenger confirmation data.
• Reduced surge at peak — smoothing of passenger flows may dampen sudden demand spikes that push up fares.
• Opportunity for value services — private seater, limousine and larger-capacity transfer companies can position pre-booked services for business and leisure travelers wanting guaranteed seats.

Who implements and what it means for security and commerce

The UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security coordinates with Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior and the GCC General Secretariat to manage the pilot. Officials emphasize that the initiative supports customs and security integration while aiming to boost tourism and bilateral trade by positioning both airports as advanced smart gateways.

Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili highlighted that the project reflects a commitment within the GCC to facilitate passenger journeys through electronic connectivity and data exchange systems. Mohammed Ahmed Al Kuwaiti, Acting Director-General of Ports, described the effort as a step toward scalable smart mobility across the region.

What transfer providers should consider

Transfer companies, independent drivers and app-based services will need to adapt to a more predictable post-arrival demand pattern. Operational steps to consider:

• Align mobile apps and dispatch systems with expected arrival windows.
• Offer dynamic pick-up zones to optimize curbside flow.
• Provide transparent pricing and exact fare estimates to passengers who want to know how much they will pay in advance.
• Train drivers on documentation handling and updated passenger pick-up protocols at e-gate-enabled terminals.

Benefits for travelers and taxi users

For the passenger, the tangible benefits are a reduction in waiting time at arrival, a smoother journey from the aircraft to the transfer vehicle, and a lower chance of missing connections due to long immigration queues. For taxi and transfer customers, the new flow offers more reliable pickup times, clearer seat availability and the possibility to book exact services in advance.

Highlights of the initiative include faster processing, strengthened regional cooperation, and the potential to turn both airports into preferred transit hubs. While official reviews and aggregated feedback can help set expectations, nothing replaces firsthand experience; travelers will best judge the system by trying it. On GetTransfer, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments, benefiting from convenience, affordability, extensive vehicle choices and a wide range of additional options. Book your Ride GetTransfer.com

Operational checklist for passengers and drivers

In summary, the One-Point Air Travelers pilot at Zayed International Airport and Bahrain International Airport aims to compress immigration and customs tasks into pre-departure checks using biometric and data-exchange technologies, reducing congestion and improving passenger experience. For taxi, cab and private transfer markets, that means more predictable arrival patterns, clearer pricing and better service planning. Platforms that let passengers view exact vehicle make, model, driver details and ratings in advance — and book a car with confidence — will gain advantage. GetTransfer.com offers a global, user-friendly solution for booking personalized transfers, trips and deliveries, with transparent details on cars, drivers and fares that help travelers get the best service at the right price. The platform’s transparency and convenience make it easier to book the exact taxi or private car you need for airport, city or destination transfers.