Dubai: Dubai-based airline Emirates has unveiled its latest innovation, the world's first robotic check-in assistant named Sara. The system is part of a new City Check-in and Travel Store that is set to launch in Dubai's financial district. Sara will match customers' faces with scanned passports, check passengers in, and guide them to the luggage drop area.
The facility, which opened on Thursday, April 27, allows customers to drop their luggage as early as 24 hours and up to 4 hours before their flight, arriving at the airport at their leisure. Passengers can check in via self-check-in kiosks, at dedicated desks with Emirates agents, or with the help of Sara.
The robot is equipped with facial recognition technology and can print boarding passes, making the check-in process more efficient. Sara is also portable and can move around to assist those who need help. Sources suggest that future
iterations of Sara will also have arms that can transport luggage.
In addition to the new check-in facility, Emirates passengers with valid boarding passes will have complimentary access to select lifestyle facilities in the ICD Brookfield Place, as well as exclusive discounts and special offers across a range of restaurants, gyms, and luxury stores.
Passengers can connect directly to the airport via taxi or Emirates chauffeur service or take a short 10-minute walk to the Financial Centre Metro Station, which connects seamlessly to the Airport Terminal 3 Metro Station.
Emirates' latest innovation aims to enhance the customer experience and make the check-in process more seamless and efficient. The airline continues to lead the way in technology and innovation, setting new standards in the aviation industry.