Dubai International Airport (DXB) recently reported that more than 350 incoming passengers were caught holding fake passports between January and March of this year. This was revealed by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, highlighting the ongoing issue of passport fraud. The GDRFA stated that a total of 366 individuals were caught using forged passports in the first three months of 2024, which is a slight increase from the previous year.
The GDRFA conducts thorough examinations of documents at the airport, with a total of 16,127 documents examined last year and 1,232 identified as forgeries. In addition, 443 cases were referred to the public prosecution for further action based on the specifics of each case. Aqil Ahmad Alnajjar, a consultant at the Document Examination Centre, emphasized that the GDRFA has an effective system in place to catch fraudsters attempting to enter the emirate with illegal passports.
The airport’s Passport Control counters are equipped with advanced machines called Retro Check, which scrutinize suspected fake passports to detect any fraudulent activity. These machines serve as an effective firewall to help immigration officers identify and intercept fake passports. Once a suspicious passport is flagged by an officer, it is sent to the Document Examination Centre for further verification. The center employs certified passport examiners like Khaled AlMameri, who play a crucial role in detecting fraudulent documents.
With the increase in the number of individuals caught using fake passports, it is evident that passport fraud remains a significant challenge for authorities at Dubai International Airport. The GDRFA’s efforts to identify and intercept fraudulent passports demonstrate their commitment to maintaining the security and integrity of the UAE’s borders. The use of advanced technology like the Retro Check machines enhances the screening process and enables officers to effectively detect potential threats.
It is crucial for travelers to ensure that they possess valid and authentic travel documents to avoid any legal repercussions or difficulties during their journey. The vigilance of immigration officers and the sophisticated tools used by the GDRFA serve as a deterrent to individuals attempting to deceive authorities with fake passports. By staying vigilant and cooperating with airport security measures, passengers can contribute to maintaining a safe and secure travel environment for all.
