In 2024, Dubai customs transactions surged by a record-breaking 47% compared to 2023.
This reflects the emirate’s thriving commercial activities and growing economy and aligns with Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Dubai’s extensive global trade network continues to expand, 2024 recorded the following increases in trade values:
- 23% in sea freight
- 21% in land freight
- 11.3% in air freight
H.E Dr. Abdullah Busnad, Director General of Dubai Customs, emphasized that Dubai is confidently progressing towards achieving its economic agenda goals, solidifying its position as a global hub for trade and advanced customs solutions.
He also highlighted Dubai Customs pivotal role in strengthening trade relations worldwide.
In addition to supporting the growth of commercial sector through a suite of digital customs programs and systems.
These innovations streamline procedures, accelerate operations, and enhance efficiency.
Border Security and Counter-Smuggling Efforts
As part of its national duty, Dubai Customs plays a crucial role in protecting the emirate’s borders.
This is by actively combating the smuggling of prohibited and restricted materials.
In 2024, the total number of seizures reached 3,273 cases, contributing to the overall security stability of both Dubai and the UAE.
Dubai Customs remains dedicated to upskilling its customs inspectors through training courses and awareness workshops on various topics, including:
- Types of narcotics and smuggling methods
- On-the-ground drug monitoring
- Forgery detection techniques
- Body language analysis and security awareness
- Handling hazardous materials and explosives
- Advanced passenger and luggage inspection techniques
- Effective communication, negotiation, and persuasion skills
Dubai Customs Thwarts Smuggling of 10.8 Million Counterfeit Goods
In a statement today, Dubai Customs reaffirmed its commitment to protecting intellectual property rights, safeguarding both the community and economy from the dangers of counterfeit products, by preventing the sale of fake goods.
The department also strengthens Dubai’s investment environment and helps businesses avoid financial losses caused by brand imitation.
This statement came after it has successfully foiled the smuggling of 10.8 million counterfeit goods through 54 separate seizures in 2024.
Dubai Customs continues to enhance its efforts in combating counterfeit goods.
By providing top-tier training programs for its employees and inspectors.
These programs significantly improve their ability to detect forgery and piracy with high efficiency.
Additionally, the department leverages cutting-edge technologies and innovations in inspection and screening procedures, including the latest smart applications to enhance operational effectiveness.
Emirates Food Bank launches “Giving Together” initiative The Emirates Food Bank Foundation launched the “Giving Together” initiative to provide seven million meals from surplus food and deliver them to those in need during the holy month of Ramadan. pic.twitter.com/kgaPd2Q2GU
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) March 6, 2025
Innovation in Customs Operations
Dubai Customs has also introduced groundbreaking initiatives such as the AI-powered Smart Risk Engine.
This engine has played a key role in identifying and intercepting prohibited and restricted goods at both local and international levels.
To further enhance customs operations, Dubai Customs continues to invest in new projects, resulting in:
- 5% increase in processed cargo containers in 2024 compared to 2023
- 8% rise in total passenger baggage screenings
- 9% increase in the number of passengers handled
The department is currently working on 84 major projects, with 55 projects successfully completed in 2024, marking a significant milestone in Dubai’s customs and logistics advancements.
