Dubai agents detect fake passports

A certified passport examiner analyses a watermark to check a passport is official. All photos: Chris Whiteoak / The National
The National visited the passport centre to see how officers detect fake passports at Dubai airports
Advanced equipment is needed to reveal fake ID
Fake passports can be detected 'within seconds'
There are 19 identifying elements to a legitimate passport
During the first quarter of 2024, passport control officers used e-readers to catch 366 passengers with fake travel ID
The scanners first verify security features on the passport, including watermarks, microprinting and coloured fibres