The US and the UAE US governments signed an agreement that will lead to the UAE’s inclusion in the US Global Entry Programme, thereby easing cross-border travel for Emiratis, reported Emirates news agency WAM.
The agreement was signed between the US Department of Homeland Security and the UAE Ministry of Interior. Global Entry is an initiative that expedites entry procedures into US ports of entry. The programme will expedite the arrival process for travellers into the US while enhancing security.
Global Entry participants must still have a valid US visa to enter the country. The signing took place on the sidelines of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s official visit to the US.
Another step forward
“This arrangement represents another step forward in our shared efforts to strengthen bilateral security and facilitate commerce and travel,” said UAE Ambassador to the US Yousef Al Otaiba. “Once the UAE and US finalise consultations, Emirati citizens who apply and are approved for the Global Entry program will be able to enter the US using the Global Entry system at 75 airports in the US and other countries,” he added.
As a pre-screened Global Entry participant, travellers can immediately check in at a Global Entry kiosk at a US Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility or when they arrive at another US port of entry, avoiding long lines and additional paperwork.
As part of launching this cooperative process, the UAE and US Government authorities will begin to develop and finalise criteria that will lead to the UAE’s full participation in the Global Entry programme.
Custom agreement
The UAE and the US also formalised an agreement aimed at boosting cooperation in customs matters. This agreement is expected to enhance economic, trade, and customs collaboration, focusing on the exchange of expertise and information between the two countries.
Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, signed the agreement on behalf of the UAE. Representing the United States was Troy A. Miller, Acting Commissioner of US Customs and Border Protection.
Al Shamsi said that the agreement will deepen economic ties, increase trade, reduce customs violations, and curb illicit trade. The deal also aims to expand technical cooperation through knowledge sharing and the development of national customs competencies.
