The UAE’s Ministry of Interior has recently announced that it is implementing the entry procedure for Emiratis into the U.S. Global Entry program in accordance with the agreement signed between the governments of the two countries, represented by the UAE Ministry of Interior and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
The two countries signed the agreement during President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s official visit to the U.S. in September.
“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to facilitating secure and efficient travel while enhancing border security for both nations. By offering Global Entry access to UAE citizens, we are making safe, secure travel more accessible while fostering stronger diplomatic and economic relations,” stated Diane J. Sabatino, acting executive assistant commissioner of CBP’s office of field operations.
Smoother entry at over 75 U.S. ports of entry
The Global Entry program is part of the U.S. border protection initiatives. It allows UAE citizens expedited access to the United States for tourism, business, and personal visits. UAE nationals will now enjoy streamlined entry at designated transit gates in U.S. airports. This not only enhances their travel experience but also reinforces the strong bilateral relations between the two states.
The UAE’s entry into the program is a testament to the robust ties between the UAE and the US, recognizing the UAE’s esteemed reputation. It aims to simplify travel procedures for UAE citizens, facilitating smoother entry at over 75 U.S. ports of entry.
This addition makes the UAE one of 23 partner countries to allow its citizens to apply for Global Entry membership.
Fostering stronger UAE-U.S. ties
Global Entry partnerships enhance security and promote bilateral trade, tourism, and cultural exchange by allowing pre-vetted, low-risk UAE citizens to expedite customs and immigration processing upon arrival to the United States.
UAE applicants will undergo the same rigorous and recurring background checks as U.S. applicants, including an in-person interview before initial enrolment. However, it is important to note that travelers must still possess a valid entry visa for the United States.
The program also provides the benefit of access to TSA PreCheck for eligible members, offering quicker security screening at participating U.S. airports. To maintain Global Entry members as low-risk travelers, any violation of the program’s terms and conditions will result in appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler’s membership privileges.
Other Global Entry partner countries include Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, Germany, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom.
Read: US customs pre-clearance facility moves to Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport
Completing declarations digitally
UAE members of the Global Entry have the option of using the Global Entry mobile app to complete declarations digitally, further streamlining the entry process. The app enhances security by integrating real-time updates and verification processes, while also allowing for a more seamless experience for travelers. This mobile option also provides flexibility and convenience, as it allows members to update their travel information in advance, helping reduce congestion at airport facilities.
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