DOHA - The introduction of e-gate services at Doha International Airport has come as a boon to airlines, passengers and employees.
The e-gate system was introduced by the Ministry of Interior recently as part of its ongoing modernisation programme to enhance services offered to the public.
In a survey carried out by Al Sharq, no one had any complaints about the service.
The regional manager of an airline said: "The airport appears less crowded these days. Using the e-gate also means passengers do not have to run from one counter to another for simple services. The e-gate now takes care of everything."
He said airline operations were also going smoothly as a result. Other passengers told the newspaper they were facing a minimal amount of problems when going through the airport. A Qatari national said: "The introduction of the system shows that Doha's airport is among the most modern in the world."
The e-gates have been set up at the departure and arrival lounges of the airport. Immigration staff can verify information related to the passenger and stamp the passport after the traveller punches the e-gate card at the gate. They then place their index finger on the e-gate, allowing for biometric fingerprinting.
The e-card is based on a fee system. Passengers pay QR150 for the card for a year's use, QR250 for two years and QR350 for three years.
There are presently four e-gates in the departure lounge and three in the arrivals section. More will be set up in the near future.
© The Peninsula 2007
