Digital Entry System in Schengen: UAE Travelers' Impact

Digital Entry System in Schengen: UAE Travelers' Impact

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates has issued an official warning about the upcoming introduction of the new Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES), which will be implemented on October 12, 2025. This new system represents not just an administrative change, but an entirely new border-crossing experience, especially for third-country nationals—those from non-EU countries—such as travelers from the UAE entering the Schengen Area.

The objective of the change is clear: enhanced security, transparency, and the digitalization of border checks. This will permanently replace the paper-based stamping system with biometric and electronic records. The core of the new system is that, upon every entry and exit, passengers' names, passport data, biometric features—such as fingerprints and facial images—as well as the time and place of entry/exit will be automatically recorded.

What does this mean in practice?

The new system applies to all non-EU nationals who stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. Thus, citizens of the UAE traveling to Europe for tourism or business will automatically be affected.

Under the previous system, a simple stamp was placed in the passport at each entry and exit. This method was not only easily forgeable but also difficult to verify. The digital system addresses this problem by centrally storing all data and verifying it electronically. The first entry includes data collection, such as recording fingerprints and capturing a facial image—similar to the long-standing US practice.

These data are stored for three years and only need updating if the traveler's information changes or if a technical error occurs during recording. Data management is conducted according to EU data protection regulations, ensuring travelers' privacy.

Who is exempt from the system?

The new regulation does not apply to those with diplomatic passports, who will continue to undergo separate procedures. Traditional, less invasive control methods will remain available to them.

What should UAE travelers be aware of?

The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has specifically informed the citizens of the Emirates that biometric data will be recorded upon their first entry. Therefore, it is advisable to arrive at border crossings early, as the initial phase of the new system may slow down the entry process. With the gradual implementation of the system, it's expected that waiting times at Schengen airports may increase in the short term, particularly at checkpoints where the process is not yet fully automated.

One positive outcome of the system's introduction could be a decrease in long-term stay abuses, as every border crossing will be digitally trackable. It's also important to know that based on the new registry, it will be possible to precisely calculate how many days someone has stayed in the area, and if the permitted 90 days is exceeded, they may receive an automatic warning or possible entry ban.

How will it affect the travel experience?

In the long run, the digital system will allow for smoother entry, particularly through automated gates and facial recognition systems. Travelers will pass through control points more quickly, and after the initial recording of data, subsequent entries will take less time.

For UAE citizens, this means that during frequent travels, they will not have to repeatedly provide their information—the system will automatically recognize them and keep track of their journeys. Data protection is ensured by the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), one of the strictest data protection laws in the world.

Why is this timing important?

The introduction date of the system, October 12, is particularly significant for the autumn travel season, when many people travel for the fall break, holidays, or business events. For UAE residents, who frequently travel to Europe for tourism or investment purposes, it is essential to be aware of the changes and plan their trips accordingly.

Summary

The new Schengen Entry/Exit System places the former manual stamping on a digital foundation, facilitating a more comprehensive registry for non-EU nationals. For UAE travelers, this change poses new challenges but also brings long-term convenience advantages. It's wise to prepare for longer wait times during initial travels, but as the system rapidly evolves and spreads, future border crossings could become simpler and safer.

For Dubai and the entire UAE traveling public, the new system represents a shift in European entry regulations—one that underscores a commitment to security, efficiency, and technological advancement.

(Source of the article: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (Mofa) statement.)