In a landmark move to boost cross-border travel, the UAE and US governments have signed an agreement to include the UAE in the US Global Entry Program by October 2024.
The signing was signed between the UAE Ministry of Interior and the US Department of Homeland Security during UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s official visit to the US.
The Global Entry Initiative aims to expedite entry processing at U.S. ports of entry and improve the travel experience for the Emirates.
Yousef Al Otaiba, UAE Ambassador to the United States, said: “This deal marks another step forward in our shared efforts to strengthen bilateral security and facilitate trade and travel.” .
UAE and US sign agreement on Global Entry Program
Once the deal is in place, Emirati nationals who apply and are approved for the Global Entry program will benefit from priority entry at 75 airports in the United States and other participating countries.
The program streamlines the arrival process for travelers while maintaining high security standards.
Participants in the Global Entry program can check in at designated kiosks at U.S. Customs and Border Protection pre-clearance facilities or upon arrival at U.S. ports of entry, significantly reducing wait times and paperwork.
It is important to note that applicants must hold a valid U.S. visa to enter the country.
As part of this collaborative process, UAE and US authorities will begin developing and finalizing criteria for the UAE’s full participation in the Global Entry Program.
In other news, the two countries also signed an agreement to strengthen cooperation on customs issues, with the aim of strengthening economic, trade and customs cooperation.
The agreement enables the exchange of customs expertise and information between the two countries.