Visitor identification is a critical aspect of security and access control in buildings, events, and government facilities. Across different countries, various types of identification cards are commonly used, each with its own format, verification technologies, and regulations.
This article explores the most prevalent visitor ID cards globally and how Quest Middle East modernizes identification processes with innovative tools for integrating with visitor management.
UAE: Emirates ID and UAE Pass
In the United Arab Emirates, the Emirates ID is the most widely used identification document. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, it is mandatory for residents and is often scanned to verify a visitor’s identity.
Alongside the Emirates ID, UAE Pass is a digital identity solution that enables secure login to government and private sector services.
Along with these, You can always use the Passport to identify your visitors.
Saudi Arabia: Iqama and National ID
Visitors in Saudi Arabia often present an Iqama (residence permit) or a passport. For Saudi nationals, the National ID serves as the primary identification method.
Saudi Arabia is a fast growing country with people from many other countries staying or visiting there. So it is a priority for companies in Saudi to have a powerful visitor management system.
USA: Driver’s License and Passport
In the United States, most visitors use a Driver’s License, which includes a photo and machine-readable information. Passports are used for foreign nationals and international travel.
USA is also a country where people from multiple nations are working, staying or visiting. It is always a huge priority to identify visitors for companies in the United States.
Canada: Health Card, Driver’s License, and Passport
Canada commonly uses Driver’s Licenses and Health Cards as forms of identification. Foreign visitors typically present passports.
Qatar: Qatari ID and Passport
The Qatari ID (QID) is used by residents, while international visitors are identified via passports. Many systems in Qatar integrate with smart ID card readers.
Bahrain: CPR Card and Passport
The Central Population Register (CPR) Card is Bahrain’s resident ID, used for local identification. Visitors are asked for passports.
Kuwait: Civil ID and Passport
Civil ID cards issued by the Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) are widely used in Kuwait. For visitors, passports remain the primary document.
Oman: Resident Card and Passport
Resident cards are used by expats in Oman, whereas passports are required for foreign visitors and non-residents.
How Quest Middle East Streamlines Visitor Identification
At Quest Middle East, we embrace modern solutions to streamline visitor verification:
- Emirates ID Scanning
- UAE Pass Integration
- Passport Recognition
- MRZ (Machine-Readable Zone) Reader
- Camera Auto Capture via smart devices
This comprehensive setup ensures fast, secure, and accurate visitor check-ins whether at corporate offices, government buildings, or public venues.
Visitor ID Comparison Table
| Country | Common ID Used | Digital Integration |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | Emirates ID, UAE Pass | Yes |
| Saudi Arabia | Iqama, National ID | Limited |
| USA | Driver’s License | Yes |
| Canada | Driver’s License | Yes |
| Qatar | Qatari ID | Yes |
| Bahrain | CPR Card | Yes |
| Kuwait | Civil ID | Limited |
| Oman | Resident Card | Limited |
Conclusion
Visitor identification is not one-size-fits-all. Each country offers its unique ID cards, backed by varying levels of digital integration. At Quest Middle East, we simplify the process with cutting-edge MRZ readers, smart camera capture, and mobile support. Explore our visitor management system for a secure, efficient, and intelligent way to identify everyone entering your premises.
FAQs
1. What is the most common visitor ID in the UAE?
The Emirates ID and UAE Pass are commonly used, with passports used for international visitors.
2. Can I scan IDs using a smartphone?
Yes, Quest Middle East offers camera auto-capture features compatible with smart devices.
3. What is an MRZ reader?
An MRZ (Machine-Readable Zone) reader is used to scan passport information for accurate visitor identification.
4. Is UAE Pass accepted outside of UAE?
No, UAE Pass is a national digital identity used within the UAE for secure services access.
5. How can I integrate visitor ID scanning into my facility?
Contact Quest Middle East for end-to-end solutions tailored to your organization’s access control and security needs.
