A revolutionary payment system that allows consumers to complete transactions with just a palm swipe is set to launch across the UAE.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced plans to collaborate with UAE banks to implement this innovative palm vein identification technology for payments.
According to an ICP spokesperson, this contactless payment method offers superior security and identification accuracy compared to conventional card payments.
How Palm Vein Payments Will Work
The initiative, named “your vein, your identity,” aims to become the standard payment method at all UAE banks and retail outlets equipped with payment terminals or credit card machines.
Saif Al Zaabi, service development branch manager at ICP, explained that the system functions by scanning the distinct vein patterns in an individual’s palm, substantially enhancing transaction security.
“It increases the security standards and safety,” noted Al Zaabi when discussing the benefits of this biometric approach to financial transactions.
Registration Process
The registration procedure involves two biometric components:
- Facial recognition scan
- Palm vein pattern scan
These two identifiers are then linked together, allowing banks to securely store and verify this information during transactions.
Advantages Over Fingerprint Technology
Al Zaabi highlighted that palm vein scanning technology provides greater reliability than fingerprint scanning, especially for older users.
“As you get older, your fingerprint pattern starts to change. So, we face this issue in the Authority. After 50 years of age, the fingerprints are more difficult to determine,” he explained.
Unlike fingerprints, which can deteriorate with age, palm vein patterns remain stable throughout a person’s lifetime, making them an ideal biometric identifier for long-term use.
Part of UAE’s Innovation Drive
The palm payment system was showcased during the UAE Innovates 2025 Exhibition held at Boulevard Emirates Towers on February 26-27. The exhibition featured nine other innovations alongside ICP’s palm vein technology.
The ICP also presented their “Smart Travel” collaboration with Zayed International Airport, which implements facial recognition technology throughout various airport processes, eliminating the need to present passports or interact with agents. This innovation earned ICP recognition in the “Most Radical Innovation” category.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of UAE Innovates, a month-long initiative organised by the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation. The event represents one of the UAE’s primary efforts to cultivate innovation within the public sector.
As the UAE continues to lead in adopting forward-thinking financial technologies, this palm vein payment system demonstrates the country’s commitment to advancing secure, convenient payment solutions for residents and visitors alike.
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