Latest news with #Bouri
Hi Dubai
20 hours ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Airports Set Global Standard with Smart Travel Innovations
UAE airports are redefining the future of air travel with groundbreaking digital transformations, according to Selim Bouri, President for the Middle East and Africa at SITA. Bouri praised airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for setting new global benchmarks in innovation, efficiency, and passenger experience. Bouri highlighted the UAE's commitment to smart airport solutions amid rising international passenger volumes. He pointed to the successful rollout of the Smart Travel system at Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport—a fully integrated biometric platform that processes passengers from check-in to departure in under 12 minutes. Since the launch of its new terminal in November 2023, the airport has processed over one million travellers using facial recognition, significantly reducing congestion and wait times. The technology not only enhances capacity but also creates a seamless, contactless journey. SITA continues to collaborate closely with UAE airports, offering tailored digital solutions to meet operational needs. Bouri noted that the Smart Travel model in Abu Dhabi will likely be adopted across other airports in the country. Looking ahead, UAE airports plan to expand biometric processing at all checkpoints, introducing self-check-in kiosks, smart boarding gates, and automated baggage services. Cybersecurity remains central to these developments. Bouri also outlined the growing role of 5G and upcoming sixth-generation networks in enabling efficient, real-time communication between airport systems and devices. He added that artificial intelligence and big data will be key to improving flight management, security, and operational performance. 'The next decade will be defined by smart, data-driven ecosystems,' Bouri said, adding that UAE airports are well-positioned to lead the global shift toward intelligent, tech-integrated travel experiences. News Source: Emirates News Agency
TECHx
3 days ago
- Business
- TECHx
UAE Airports Set New Global Standards with AI Integration
Home » Latest news » UAE Airports Set New Global Standards with AI Integration Selim Bouri, President for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) at SITA, has announced that UAE airports, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have set new global standards in innovation, efficiency, and passenger experience. He reported the UAE's strong commitment to digitalisation and the use of advanced technologies. This comes as airports face the growing challenge of managing increasing passenger volumes. In a statement to Emirates News Agency (WAM), Bouri revealed that SITA is working closely with UAE airports. The goal is to understand their unique needs and deliver tailored technology solutions. One key initiative is the Smart Travel system at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi. This integrated platform uses biometric identity processing to streamline passenger journeys. According to Bouri, the system reduces congestion and waiting times. It also improves the airport's ability to handle more international flights. Zayed International Airport saw significant growth in flight traffic in 2024. As a result, adopting digital solutions became essential. Since the launch of its new terminal in November 2023, over one million passengers have been processed using facial recognition. Each traveller now has a unique digital identity, enabling a seamless journey from check-in to departure. This includes border control in under 12 minutes. Bouri said the success of the Smart Travel system in Abu Dhabi could lead to its adoption at other airports across the UAE. He also revealed that UAE airports will soon expand biometric processing at checkpoints. This will support a fully contactless passenger experience. He highlighted that self-service technologies will become a key focus in the coming years: Self-check-in kiosks Automated baggage drop Smart boarding gates These innovations aim to reduce congestion and simplify travel processes. Bouri noted that cybersecurity remains a top priority in UAE's digital airport strategy. He stressed that smart solutions will enhance safety, reduce delays, and improve overall efficiency. He predicted that the next decade will see a rise in next-generation communication technologies in airports. This includes creating a highly integrated smart airport ecosystem. He also discussed the benefits of 5G, enabling seamless device-to-device communication. This enhances ground connectivity for passengers, systems, and operations. Looking ahead, Bouri mentioned support for future technologies such as sixth-generation networks and advanced wireless internet services. He reported that airports, airlines, and governments across the Middle East are investing heavily in technology. Their goal is to boost passenger experience and improve operational efficiency. Technologies like biometric systems and e-gates are now backed by strategic initiatives and major funding. Bouri emphasized the growing importance of artificial intelligence and big data in flight management. These tools help reduce delays and improve decision-making. He added that airports and partners generate large volumes of data. However, not all of it is fully used. He expects that over the next decade, future-ready airports will increasingly rely on: Predictive analytics Big data platforms Advanced operational tools He clarified that AI and robotics do not replace humans. Instead, they support smart collaboration between people and technology. Finally, Bouri announced that AI in aviation will expand to more sectors. It will enhance flight scheduling, automate baggage handling, support operations centres, and improve fuel efficiency. AI will also strengthen airport security by improving threat detection and providing multilingual assistance.
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Seamless departure in 12 minutes: UAE airports set global benchmark in digital efficiency
ABU DHABI (WAM) Selim Bouri, President for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) at SITA, a global leader in air transport IT and communications, has confirmed that airports in the UAE, particularly those in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have established new global benchmarks in innovation, efficiency and passenger experience. He noted the country's clear commitment to digitalisation and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, particularly in light of the increasing challenge of managing growing passenger volumes. In remarks to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Bouri explained that SITA works closely with UAE airports to understand their unique needs and opportunities, providing tailored technology solutions, pointing to the implementation of the Smart Travel system at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi—a fully integrated platform for biometric identity processing. This system, he noted, reduces congestion and waiting times while enhancing airport capacity to handle the rising number of international flights. Zayed International Airport experienced strong growth in flight traffic in 2024, making it essential to adopt digital solutions to meet this surge. Bouri described the airport's experience as a testament to the value of advanced biometric processing, highlighting that since the opening of its new terminal in November 2023, the airport has processed over one million passengers using facial recognition. This has created a unique digital identity for each traveller, enabling a seamless journey from check-in to departure—including border control—in under 12 minutes. The success of the Smart Travel system at Zayed International Airport, he added, paves the way for its adoption at other airports across the UAE. On future technologies passengers can expect at UAE airports, Bouri said that the country's travel experience is increasingly powered by smart solutions that provide efficiency and convenience. He revealed plans to expand biometric processing across airport checkpoints, delivering a fully contactless passenger experience. Self-service technologies, he said, will be a core focus area in the coming years. These include self-check-in kiosks, automated baggage drop services, and smart boarding gates, all aimed at reducing congestion and streamlining travel procedures. Cybersecurity also remains a top priority within the UAE's airport digital strategies. Bouri emphasised that smart innovations will play a key role in boosting efficiency, minimising waiting times, enhancing safety and reinforcing the UAE's status as a leader in smart, integrated airport systems. He added that the coming decade will witness a significant increase in the deployment of next-generation communication technologies within airports. This will create a highly integrated smart airport ecosystem and flight operation network. Bouri discussed the impact of 5G networks on enabling seamless device-to-device communication, benefitting passengers, systems and operations through improved ground connectivity. He also pointed to future support for sixth-generation network technologies and advanced wireless internet services. Airports, airlines and governments in the Middle East, known for their leadership in innovation, are investing heavily in the latest technologies to enhance passenger experience and streamline airport operations. These include biometric processing systems and e-gates backed by strategic initiatives and major investments. Addressing the role of artificial intelligence and big data in improving flight management and reducing delays, Bouri explained that although airports, airlines and partners generate vast amounts of data, it is not always fully understood or leveraged. Over the next decade, he said, future-ready airports will increasingly rely on big data, predictive analytics and advanced platforms to achieve peak operational efficiency. The growing role of AI and robotics, he clarified, does not eliminate the human factor but rather fosters smart collaboration between people and technology. Bouri concluded that the next decade will see AI extend to more sectors, enhancing flight scheduling, personalised communication with passengers, operations centre support, predictive maintenance, multilingual assistance, automated baggage handling and reduced fuel consumption for autonomous vehicles. AI will also be used by airports and governments to improve security screening and increase the accuracy of threat detection.
Al-Ahram Weekly
14-05-2025
- Business
- Al-Ahram Weekly
INTERVIEW: SITA backs Egypt's aviation future with new Cairo tech hub: MEA president - Economy
SITA, the global IT provider for the air transport industry, has inaugurated its first Command Center in the Middle East and Africa, establishing a strategic presence in Cairo. The new Cairo Command Center (SCC) joins the company's global network of hubs alongside those in Montreal and Singapore. The facility offers 24/7 real-time monitoring of networks, infrastructure, and applications, ensuring uninterrupted support for airports, airlines, and governments worldwide. Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hefny, and SITA's President for the Middle East & Africa, Selim Bouri, attended the inauguration. Speaking to Ahram Online, Bouri explained how the Cairo hub reflects SITA's commitment to the region and aligns with Egypt's broader strategy to involve the private sector in managing 11 of its airports. 'This is only our third global Command Center,' Bouri said. 'Cairo was chosen because of its strategic location, growing aviation market, and deep talent pool.' Why Cairo? Bouri explained that a mix of strategic, logistical, and economic considerations shaped the decision to establish the SCC in Egypt. 'Egypt's unique position at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East makes it an ideal location for supporting a rapidly growing aviation market in the region," he stated. 'The country's long history as a major player in the global aviation sector, coupled with its burgeoning tech industry, made Cairo a prime candidate for this high-tech facility.' Some of those factors included: Skilled Workforce: Egypt's tech sector has produced a highly educated workforce, especially in IT, with multilingual capabilities in Arabic, English, and French—ideal for international aviation support. Geographic Advantage: Cairo offers excellent regional connectivity across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, helping SITA deliver faster, more efficient services. Established Presence: SITA has operated in Egypt for over 70 years, making it a natural base to expand its regional operations. Supportive Policy Environment: The Egyptian government's push to modernise aviation infrastructure and encourage foreign investment also played a key role. 'The Minister of Civil Aviation himself is a technology advocate,' Bouri noted. Egypt's aviation growth Bouri told Ahram Online that Egypt's aviation sector is growing rapidly, with Middle East and North Africa (MENA) passenger numbers expected to double in the next five years. This growth is straining current infrastructure and increasing the demand for more innovative, tech-enabled solutions. 'SITA's Cairo Command Center is designed to meet these needs—providing real-time support, improving safety, and enhancing the passenger experience,' he said. As national carrier EgyptAir and other regional airlines expand, SITA's technology will address congestion and operational inefficiencies at major airports. Private Sector Partnerships Bouri also discussed Egypt's strategy to upgrade airport infrastructure through public-private partnerships (PPPs), calling it a 'critical step' toward faster investment, better decision-making, and technological modernisation. 'Maintaining and upgrading a large number of airports is costly,' he said. 'By allowing private investors to take a stake in airport management, Egypt hopes to alleviate the strain on public funds and expedite the implementation of new technologies. SITA's experience with similar models around the world has made it an ideal partner for such initiatives.' He emphasized that SITA's global experience with PPPs and its use of a 'concession model', which allows co-financing and long-term partnerships, make it well-positioned to support Egypt and others in the region. AI at the airport Bouri discussed the role of artificial intelligence and said SITA is leading the integration of AI in airport systems to improve operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction. 'AI helps us predict passenger flows, optimise staffing, and manage resources more effectively,' he said, citing Toronto Pearson International Airport as a success story. AI has reduced wait times by aligning staffing levels with real-time demand. SITA plans to roll out similar AI-driven systems in MENA airports, where passenger volumes are rapidly increasing. 'The ability to predict and manage passenger flow will be crucial for maintaining a smooth and efficient airport experience, especially during peak travel times,' Bouri said. Challenges and opportunities While acknowledging the region's political and economic challenges, Bouri described them as opportunities for innovation. 'Aviation can be a powerful driver of growth and job creation. With airport expansion across Egypt and the wider region, there's a strong demand for advanced solutions.' He added that SITA is uniquely placed to integrate technology into critical infrastructure, from baggage handling and immigration systems to airside operations. A long-term commitment Bouri concluded with a firm message: 'Our new Cairo center reinforces SITA's long-term commitment to Egypt and the EMEA region. We're here to help reshape the aviation landscape with smart, scalable technologies.' SITA will continue working with airlines, airport operators, and governments to future-proof infrastructure and deliver seamless passenger experiences. 'The goal is simple: ensure the region's airports are ready for what's next.' Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Daily News Egypt
13-05-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
SITA opens first regional hub in Middle East with new command center in Cairo
Egypt's Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hefny, inaugurated SITA's new command center in Cairo—its first regional hub in the Middle East and Africa—marking a key milestone in Egypt's strategy to become a digital leader in the global aviation industry. The launch of the center aligns with the Ministry of Civil Aviation's broader vision to accelerate digital transformation and position Egypt as a regional hub for both aviation and information technology. SITA, the global IT provider for the air transport industry, began operations at the Cairo center in September 2024. Speaking at the inauguration, Minister El-Hefny said the new facility reflects SITA's confidence in Egypt's investment climate and underscores the country's growing appeal as a destination for high-tech, high-impact investments. He noted that the center will not only enhance the region's aviation digital infrastructure but will also generate high-quality job opportunities and foster partnerships with universities to develop a new generation of aviation IT professionals. He also highlighted the Ministry's commitment to fostering effective public-private partnerships that support Egypt's ambition to lead in innovation, technology, and digital services across the region. El-Hefny praised the ongoing collaboration between SITA and EgyptAir, which has already led to the implementation of advanced digital solutions aimed at enhancing operational performance and passenger experience. Among these are SITA Connect Go, a next-generation infrastructure that delivers responsive and scalable connectivity, and the Community DCS system, which streamlines departure processes and improves airline efficiency. The minister emphasized that investing in technology is 'the investment of the era,' adding that Egypt has the infrastructure, talent, and vision to become a global gateway for innovation in aviation. He affirmed the Egyptian government's commitment to creating a secure, supportive investment environment to attract top international firms, pointing to SITA's expansion as a model of successful global partnership. Selim Bouri, SITA's President for the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, described the new command center as a 'significant milestone' in the company's historic relationship with Egypt, which began in 1954. He explained that Egypt's strategic location, supportive investment climate, and abundance of skilled talent were key factors behind the decision to establish the regional hub in Cairo. 'Digital transformation is the driving force behind the future of air transport,' said Bouri. 'With this center, we reaffirm our commitment to deepening our collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and EgyptAir. Together, we aim to develop the region's digital infrastructure and enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers worldwide.' Bouri added that the launch represents both the continuation of a decades-long partnership and a new starting point for expanded cooperation. He emphasized SITA's dedication to supporting Egypt's development goals by investing in local talent, empowering youth, and contributing to the creation of a world-class digital ecosystem. Founded in 1949, SITA is a global leader in air transport technology. The company provides integrated digital solutions for airports, airlines, and governments, with a focus on improving efficiency, safety, and sustainability across the aviation sector. SITA supports operations at over 1,000 airports worldwide, serves more than 2,500 customers, and offers border management solutions to over 70 governments. Its expansive network spans more than 200 countries and regions, playing a critical role in the digital transformation of global air travel.
