UAE and US Governments Sign Agreement for UAE’s Inclusion in Global Entry Programme

WASHINGTON, DC – 26th September 2024: The UAE and US governments have signed an important agreement to make travel easier for UAE citizens. This deal starts the process to add the UAE to the US Global Entry Programme by October 2024.

The agreement was signed during President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to the US. The Global Entry Programme, run by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), helps pre-approved travelers enter the US faster. It allows them to skip long lines and get through border checks more quickly.

Enhanced Travel Experience for UAE Citizens

UAE Ambassador to the US, Yousef Al Otaiba, said, “This agreement is another step in improving security and making travel and trade easier between our countries.”

He added, “After talks are complete, approved Emirati citizens will get faster entry at 75 airports in the US and other countries.”

How Global Entry Will Benefit UAE Travellers

The Global Entry Programme will offer several benefits to UAE travellers:

• Faster Entry: Pre-approved participants can use designated Global Entry kiosks at US airports, bypassing long queues and reducing paperwork.
• Security Enhancement: By focusing on pre-screened individuals, the programme also bolsters overall security measures for incoming passengers.

Despite the expedited process, it is important to note that Global Entry participants will still require a valid US visa to enter the country.

Next Steps in the UAE’s Global Entry Process

As part of this deal, the UAE and US will work on the rules needed for the UAE to fully join the Global Entry Programme. They will finalize important details and make sure everything is ready for a smooth start.

Joining this programme will make travel easier, improve UAE-US relations, and help Emirati citizens move through US airports more quickly.