Emirates Announces Major Check-in Upgrades at DXB

The airline introduces assistive features across immigration, check-in, and the onboard experience.

Emirates has launched a series of technology upgrades at Dubai International Airport, aimed at making travel smoother and more inclusive for all passengers, Gulfnews reports. The reveal took place during the AccessAbilities Expo 2025, where the airline introduced enhanced Smart Tunnel cameras, voice-activated check-in kiosks, and a reimagined business class mattress design.

Smoother Immigration with Dual-Height Recognition

At Terminal 3, Emirates has upgraded its Smart Tunnel system to include dual-height facial recognition cameras—a move that benefits children, wheelchair users, and all travelers. Previously, the system’s placement favored average adult height. The new lower camera is positioned around one meter high to ensure greater inclusivity.

With the Smart Tunnel, travelers pass through immigration in seconds without needing to present passports or boarding passes manually. The system matches live facial images with digital records stored in immigration databases.

Voice-Activated Kiosks with Enhanced Accessibility

Emirates is also rolling out redesigned self-service check-in kiosks equipped with:

• Braille-enabled navigation bars that speak the screen steps aloud, assisting visually impaired users.

• Highly responsive touch sensors, allowing even light taps to register without requiring strong presses.

• Improved display settings, including contrast adjustments, to enhance visibility for color-blind users or those with visual limitations.

The kiosks have been upgraded across all Dubai Airport self-service and bag-drop points. Emirates notes that the technology aligns with standards used in U.S. airports, such as those in New York.

Business Class Comfort Reimagined

In business class, Emirates has introduced a new hooded, fitted mattress design that remains secured to the seat throughout the flight—even during landing phases when seatbelts are required. This allows passengers with mobility challenges to settle in immediately after takeoff and maintain rest until touchdown.

Previously, crew members needed to remove mattresses before landing, which could be disruptive to those unable to move easily. The new design minimizes that disturbance.

Inclusive Journey Planning & Sensory Support

Emirates has also launched an Accessible & Inclusive Travel Hub on its website, giving passengers tailored support for special needs—such as wheelchair assistance, priority boarding, and service animal accommodations.

Travelers can filter their journey by specific requirements to plan more effectively, and from November 2025 the airline will offer sensory comfort kits and fidget toys on board (such as tactile stress relievers and fidget cubes), aimed particularly at neurodivergent passengers, nervous flyers, or those needing calm during travel.

Emirates’ latest enhancements reflect its ongoing commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and seamless passenger experience, positioning Dubai’s hub for travelers of all abilities.