The Dubai e-gate card is a credit card that can be used in conjunction with your finger print in order to enter or leave the UAE saving you hours in queuing time. The system is currently in use at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah airports and is expected to be introduced at land borders soon. The Dubai Government, now requires all Dubai residents to obtain an e-gate card when they apply for new or renewal of their residence visa. Here are some fast facts on the e-gate card and how to get one:

• Anyone who visits the UAE (with a valid entry permit) is entitled to get one, not just expatriate residents or UAE nationals.
• You should still carry your passport with you. If you have a problem at entry or exit, there are always customs officials there to assist and perhaps check your passport manually.
• It costs 200 AED and is valid for 2 years. You must be physically present at one of the issuing offices to get one along with your passport (which should not be expiring within the next 6 months).
• No need to bring photos, they will take them for you.
• There are two locations at Dubai International Airport: The first is in the arrival terminal just before passport control (tel: +971 4 206 1598) - after you take the travelator journey and go up the stairs/escalator. The second is near the food court upstairs in the departure terminal (tel +971 4 206 1597). Opening hours approximately 1000 to 2000 according to the e-gate website.
• There is another office at the DNATA Holiday Center (tel +971 4 316 6966) on Sheikh Zayed Road, opening hours 1000-1800 Sat-Thu
• If changing from resident to visit visa status, you need a new card for which there is no fee but it's renewed until original expiry date.
• If changing from visit visa to resident status, you will need a new card and you have to pay the 200 AED fee. Validity is until original expiry date.
• If you are on a visit visa status you can use the card repeatedly at Dubai airport but after a land border crossing, you'll have to go to the e-gate office to update your card afterwards since your file number changes. This may change if the e-gate system is implemented at land borders. There is no fee for the update.

Visit www.dnrd.ae for more information.