Emirates Identity Authority showcasing smart card technology of the new ID card during GITEX

The introduction of the new high-tech card is considered one of the largest technical projects of its kind in the Middle East.

Dr. Saeed Al Dhaheri, Director-General of EIA, said the Authority is using GITEX to showcase the latest technical features being used by EIA to design the new card and ensure it meets the highest security standards.

He added that the new ID Card will be a cornerstone of the UAE e-government program through securing the identities of cardholders in all electronic transactions. He said that the use of a digital signature and special encoding measures for fingerprints will make it impossible to duplicate the card or tamper with the information it contains.

The ID Card will be embedded with a 32 kilobyte memory chip complete with a microprocessor that will store all data, photos, fingerprints and other applications.

The encryption system used is based on three levels of security developed by the French security company, Sagem, to ensure the privacy of all data entered onto the card. No one will be able to access this personal data except for the government organizations and agencies that have authorization. The ID Card has nine advanced security measures—among them micro-lettering and the use of ultraviolet inks, as well as holograms—to secure the information contained on it.

Dr Al Dhaheri said the card could possibly be used at electronic gates in airports and with other security systems that require identity to be proven through biometric means such as fingerprints. He said that the electronic wallet feature of the ID Card will also be able to be used like an ATM card, but its security features will provide a higher degree of security than that which is in current use in the banking and credit card industries.

The actual physical card will be produced by another French company, PLAC, one of the leading international smartcard manufacturers. It will be produced from a combination of PVC and PET plastics to guarantee the card has the flexibility and the durability to last through its five year lifespan.