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UAE Traveller Renewed Passport in Just 8 Minutes at Dubai Airport
Confirmed
In Short: An Emirati citizen was pleasantly surprised by the speed of passport renewal at Dubai International Airport, completing the process in just eight minutes.
A UAE citizen was recently able to renew his passport in just eight minutes at Dubai International Airport, a process he initially expected to take around 10 minutes. According to reports, the traveller discovered that his passport had only about a month left before expiry, just before a planned trip that required a passport valid for at least six months beyond the travel date.
The traveller, who shared his experience in a viral video, was told by airport officials that the fastest option was the passport renewal service at the airport. He expressed his surprise and pride in the UAE's efficiency, thanking those responsible for the service and praising the authorities and Dubai airport for their promptness.
Earlier this year, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security expanded passport renewal options for Emirati citizens, allowing them to renew their passports when one year or less remained before expiry. This decision aimed to provide more proactive government services and reduce the risk of travellers discovering close to departure that their passports did not meet validity requirements imposed by some destinations.
The UAE passport continues to rank among the world’s strongest, retaining first place in the 2026 Passport Index compiled by Arton Capital. This index assesses passports through a global mobility score, measuring access to 199 destinations and taking into account visa-free entry, visas on arrival, and electronic travel authorisations or e-visas issued within three working days.
The traveller's experience highlights the efficiency of the UAE's passport renewal process, which has been enhanced to accommodate the needs of frequent travellers. His story serves as a testament to the UAE's commitment to providing seamless travel experiences for its citizens.
What's confirmed
- After being told that the fastest option was the passport renewal service at Dubai International Airport, he went to the airport expecting the process to take about 10 minutes.
- “I was told there was nothing faster than Dubai airport and that it would take 10 minutes,” he said in the video.
What's still developing
- Nothing material beyond the confirmed record.