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Emirates To Phase Out Paper Boarding Passes In Dubai Hub
Passengers checking in for flights at Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 will need to use mobile devices to check in from May 15th.
After we reported on Emirates adopting robotic check-in assistants to increase check-in efficiency at Dubai International Airport, the world’s largest long-haul airline is now taking further steps to boost its sustainability credentials and embrace an all-digital future.
On Monday, May 15th, paper boarding passes will be scrapped for passengers departing from Dubai International Airport Terminal 3, and passengers will be required to use electronic alternatives instead.
Emirates passengers will receive email or SMS passes after the weekend, and online check-ins will also be compatible with Apple and Google Wallets and be available in the Emirates app — including receipts for checked bags.
“This initiative will significantly reduce paper waste while simultaneously offering a convenient and speedy digitized check-in experience for passengers departing Dubai [reducing] the risk of lost or misplaced boarding passes, giving passengers peace of mind when traveling,” says Emirates in an official statement.
The move is part of ongoing efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainability, though many travelers already prefer to use digital documents and smartphone apps in place of paper equivalents. The company confirmed that mobile boarding passes could be used throughout the travel journey, including at duty-free stores, security, and boarding.
Also Read: Dubai Launches The World’s Largest Ocean Restoration Project
Some exemptions to the new rules include those traveling with infants or people requiring special assistance. All passengers traveling to the United States will also need physical boarding passes, and certain passengers who will use connecting services.
The option to print boarding passes is available by request at check-in desks if passengers do not have a mobile device or cannot access their travel details for any reason.
Emirates has taken several steps towards future-proofing its services and boosting sustainability credentials, including a recent $200 million research and development project focused on advanced fuel systems that could reduce the airline’s environmental impact.
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Google To Launch AI Hub In Saudi Arabia, Aiming For $71B GDP Boost
The tech giant also plans to develop local AI solutions, and train regional talent to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Google has announced plans to set up a cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Saudi Arabia, a move aimed at accelerating technological growth and economic development across the wider gulf region. The ambitious project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an initiative that champions technology and innovation as central to economic diversification away from the oil industry.
According to Google, the hub has the potential to contribute as much as $71 billion to Saudi Arabia’s economy. The initiative will likely speed up the adoption of AI across industries such as healthcare, retail, and financial services — not only within Saudi Arabia but also throughout the wider MENA region and beyond.
Yasir Al Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), highlighted the importance of the project for the Kingdom: “This partnership demonstrates PIF’s dedication to fostering an AI-friendly environment through investments in human capital and technology, upskilling thousands with cutting-edge tools to support our sustainable and innovative infrastructure goals,” he explained. Al Rumayyan also emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s combination of sector knowledge and long-term investment strategies makes it an ideal environment for global technology partnerships.
Also Read: Top Free AI Chatbots Available In The Middle East
A central aim of Google’s initiative is nurturing local talent. The AI hub will offer a range of training, research, and collaboration opportunities for developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs within Saudi Arabia. Google envisions training “millions” of people, helping to create a robust innovation ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship and ensures economic benefits reach all segments of society.
As international technology giants increasingly look to develop solutions tailored to regional needs, Google’s initiative reflects a progressive approach that leverages the strengths of local markets. With the potential to inject billions into the economy and strengthen digital capacities, Saudi Arabia could soon emerge as a prominent center for AI innovation in the Middle East.
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