SIL 2024: Global Logistics Fair Drives Innovation & Growth

Logistics is essential for modern life. Thanks to it, products and raw materials reach our hands every day through the supply chain. But its importance is not limited to this; it is also a significant economic driver that creates many jobs. According to recent data from ICEX, there are over 200.000 companies linked to the logistics sector, with around a million people working in this activity, representing 10% of our country’s GDP. Air freight transport experienced a remarkable 2024, with a volume of 1.28 million tonnes, according to AENA it was the year with the most freight traffic recorded to date. To further boost efficiency in this key sector, constant updating on the latest technological advancements is essential.

In this context of constant growth, the International Logistics Exhibition (SIL) will be held, the international reference fair for Logistics, Transport, Intralogistics and Supply Chain. The event is organised by the Consorci de la Zona Franca de Barcelona (CZFB) from 18 to 20 June at the España Square – Montjuïc venue of Fira de Barcelona. SIL, maintaining the successful formula of previous editions, focuses on generating business, networking among companies, and exchanging knowledge through the SIL Knowledge congress.

The fair brought together, in the last edition, more than 650 companies and agents, representing the entire logistics chain, creating a conducive environment for generating new business opportunities. The internationalisation of participating companies remains one of the pillars of this edition: 30% of the companies present are foreign, with representatives from countries such as France, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, USA, Chile, Peru, Argentina, UAE, among others.

At SIL, networking takes a leading role. In an environment where establishing synergies between companies is key, the fair provides participants with the SILvIA Platform, a digital tool that facilitates contact generation, message exchange and meeting requests. In the 2024 edition alone, more than 8.000 digital connections were registered, and over 3.000 meetings were scheduled. This is complemented by a comprehensive agenda of events and the SIL Networking Zone, a space specifically designed to foster information exchange and create business opportunities through B2B meetings.

SIL 2024 in Barcelona unites global logistics leaders, fostering business, talent, and innovation in a sustainable supply chain sector.
SIL 2024 in Barcelona unites global logistics leaders, fostering business, talent, and innovation in a sustainable supply chain sector.

Recruiting and promoting talent is an opportunity offered by SIL through the Job Market Place, organised by Barcelona Activa in collaboration with SIL. Through this space, companies can fill available vacancies and connect with professionals in the sector. In the previous edition, the Job Market Place had around 780 candidates, consolidating itself as a key point for talent incorporation.

Furthermore, SIL is also a space to generate knowledge, debate ideas, and analyse sector trends. In this edition, SIL International Knowledge will offer, over the three days, presentations addressing current challenges and concerns affecting logistics from a comprehensive perspective. The programme will include key topics such as sustainability, as well as specialised conferences on maritime, land and air logistics.

In this regard, Pere Navarro, the special delegate of the State at the CZFB and president of SIL, emphasises that “SIL is much more than a fair: it is the meeting point where the future of logistics is shaped, business opportunities are generated, and talent and innovation are promoted in an increasingly global and sustainable environment”.

On the other hand, Blanca Sorigué, general director of the CZFB and SIL, states that “each edition of SIL reaffirms its role as a global platform where business, talent and knowledge converge. We are committed to connecting the entire logistics ecosystem, promoting internationalisation and addressing the sector’s major challenges with a sustainable and innovative approach”.

To attend SIL, registration is required via the website, where all information can also be followed in an updated manner. And with the LinkedIn channel, professionals will also be able to find out about the latest news from the main international logistics sector fair.

 

dnata brings global cargo investments and future-focused infrastructure to the spotlight at IATA World Cargo Symposium

Dubai, UAE—As the air cargo industry gathers in Dubai for the World Cargo Symposium, dnata is spotlighting three major facility launches as part of global infrastructure investments exceeding US$ 110 million.

New developments in The Netherlands, UAE and Iraq are set to go live in 2025, strengthening dnata’s cargo and logistics capabilities across its global operations.

“As supply chains evolve and customer expectations shift, we’re focused on investing in infrastructure that’s fit for purpose today and adaptable for tomorrow,” said Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, dnata’s CEO – Airport Operations. “Our latest investments prioritise automation, scalability and energy efficiency, enabling us to support our customers more effectively in a fast-changing logistics environment.”

Future-ready infrastructure to meet shifting market trends

All three new dnata facilities have been designed to reduce manual handling, improve real-time visibility, and enable scalable automation. Their modular architecture allows for future technology upgrades and operational flexibility. Integrated sustainability features will help drive long-term energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

dnata Cargo City Amsterdam will also offer full AWB (air waybill) control across the entire facility, allowing complete oversight of shipment progress and documentation. Operations will be centrally managed via dnata’s Cargo Control Centre, with live process visibility for real-time coordination.

Smart gates will automatically record the volume and weight of all incoming consignments using 3D scanning, significantly improving handling speed and service quality. A forklift guidance system will support optimised movement and placement of cargo within the warehouse. Additionally, the facility will perform 100% weight and dimension checks, ensuring accuracy and compliance for every shipment.

Clive Sauvé-Hopkins added: “These projects are designed to deliver measurable gains in performance, traceability and resource efficiency. They form a key part of our long-term strategy to enhance service quality while building a more resilient, data-driven cargo operation.”

dnata leadership to speak at World Cargo Symposium 

dnata executives will take part in key discussions at the IATA World Cargo Symposium, sharing perspectives on innovation, digital infrastructure, and the industry’s path to greater operational and environmental efficiency.

These include:

dnata provides quality and safe ground handling and cargo services at more than 90 airports in 16 countries. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s teams handled 2.9 million tonnes of cargo globally, which represents a 5% growth year over year.

ECS Group Achieves ISO 27001 Compliance for its IT Services, Reinforcing Commitment to Security and Operational Excellence

Paris, France—ECS Group announced its Group IT department has achieved ISO 27001 certification, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to information security and operational efficiency.

As a certified service provider, ECS Group’s IT tools and systems now operate under a globally recognized standard for information security management, ensuring that all affiliated entities benefit from enhanced protection, compliance, and performance.

ISO 27001 is considered the gold standard in information security and demonstrates ECS Group’s dedication to implementing best-in-class technical and organizational measures. By adopting the Group IT solutions and applying the ECS IT Security Policy, entities across the network achieve alignment with the standard’s security objectives — including access control, data protection, business continuity, and risk management.

By achieving ISO 27001 certification, ECS Group strengthens its IT security and aligns with GDPR requirements. This ensures robust data protection through strict access controls, regular risk assessments, and full compliance with EU privacy standards.

This certification positions ECS Group as a reliable partner for airlines and logistics providers who require robust cybersecurity postures and compliance with international standards. “More and more airlines are requiring their partners to demonstrate compliance with ISO 27001 and other security frameworks,” said Jean Ceccaldi, CEO of ECS Group. “Our certification provides immediate assurance to clients and partners that we take information security seriously — and that we’re fully equipped to meet their expectations”.

The certification also enhances the reliability and resilience of ECS Group’s digital tools and operational processes. Certified IT services allow for predictable and efficient service delivery, reduced system downtime, and quicker incident response times — all critical components in ensuring business continuity and securing customer data.

In addition to ISO 27001, ECS Group also undergoes a regular SOC 2 Type 2 audit, further reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and data protection. While ISO 27001 focuses on building and maintaining a strong information security management system, SOC 2 Type 2 attests to the ongoing effectiveness of security controls. Together, these standards position ECS Group as a trusted partner for airlines and logistics companies worldwide.

This milestone reflects ECS Group’s broader digital strategy and ongoing commitment to continuous improvement. Through the implementation of internationally recognized standards like ISO 27001, ECS Group continues to reinforce its leadership in the air cargo industry by delivering secure, scalable, and forward-thinking digital solutions to its partners and customers worldwide.

Emirates launches Emirates Courier Express, promising to treat packages like passengers

Dubai, UAE, April 2, 2025 – Backed by almost four decades’ experience in keeping goods and people moving all over the world, Emirates has launched Emirates Courier Express, an end-to-end delivery solution that is set to redefine the express delivery experience.

To ensure Emirates Courier Express addressed industry-wide challenges, Emirates worked with various global customers to pilot and finesse the product, with the goal to make it as fast, reliable and flexible as possible, before launching to market.

Over the last year, Emirates Courier Express transported several thousands of packages from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, South Africa and the UK. The average delivery time is less than 48 hours. Now, Emirates Courier Express is open for business, for businesses.

“Emirates Courier Express is an evolution in how we move goods across the globe, at speed and at scale. Building on our world-class and well-established infrastructure, and reimagining traditional logistics processes where necessary, this innovative solution does not just meet the Emirates Gold Standard of reliability and excellence but sets a new benchmark for what’s possible. This is only the beginning of our vision to continuously innovate and lead the charge in the express delivery sector,” said Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo.

Traditionally, cross-border delivery is managed via a global hub-and-spoke model, with a package making multiple stops before arriving at its end destination. Emirates Courier Express has broken this mould.

Just like passengers, packages will travel from origin to destination directly, leveraging the breadth of Emirates’ vast global network and near-unparalleled flight frequencies. This approach significantly reduces time in transit, reduces package handling and offers Emirates Courier Express customers’ a competitive edge in getting their goods to end users. Direct connectivity is matched with different service levels, ranging from next day urgent delivery to a two-day Premium service, along with a pipeline of innovative new products.

At launch, Emirates Courier Express will be active and available in seven markets, however the potential network growth is unlimited: wherever Emirates flies, Emirates Courier Express can deliver. Expansion to additional markets is already in the works.

Harnessing the fleet of the world’s largest international airline, Emirates Courier Express has access to over 250 all widebody passenger and freighter aircraft to move packages worldwide.

Complemented by a trusted, reliable and integrated cross border network of partners to manage the customs clearance and first and last mile transportation, the solution delivers door-to-door.

This integration into the airline’s existing infrastructure allows Emirates Courier Express to handle volume fluctuations from seasonal spikes while maintaining cost stability, ultimately empowering customers to plan and budget with confidence.

This seamless integration also enables Emirates Courier Express to provide bespoke and tailored solutions, whether transporting fashion and mobile phones or the most critical medical equipment. A team of dedicated specialists provide niche segment solutions, facilitated by the airline’s extensive freight and logistics infrastructure, including cool chain capacity, allowing the transportation of specialist or sensitive products from launch.

Prioritising ease of business, Emirates Courier Express’ is entirely digital, with a purpose-built tech platform integrating directly into customer software and supports additional bespoke shipping solutions. Advanced tracking systems, real-time updates, and seamless integration, ensures complete efficiency, reliability, quality, and transparency from collection to delivery across the world.

Dennis Lister, Senior Vice President of Product and Innovation, Emirates SkyCargo said, “Emirates Courier Express is the result of challenging the status quo. Along with the industry, we watched the increasing volumes of cross border shipping and challenged ourselves to find a better way to transport these goods faster and more efficiently. The new product launch reflects our ongoing commitment to push the boundaries to introduce innovations which drive real impact and ensure our customers always have access to the fastest, most reliable and cost-effective solutions available.”

ATA Conference 2025 Explores Animal Transport Future

The ATA Conference 2025 brought together 146 industry experts to discuss the future of live animal transportation. Hosted in Doha, Qatar the event was marked by insightful discussions on AVI handling, animal welfare, compliance, and innovation in transport solutions.

Key moments included a welcome speech by Eric Wilson, SVP Global Sales at Qatar Airways Cargo, an engaging AVI Handling and Animal Welfare Panel featuring Michael Wambold, Head of Cargo Terminal Services, and the appointment of Willem Lodewijk Berk, Regional Cargo Sales Manager, as ATA President. Participants also had the opportunity to visit Qatar Airways Cargo’s state-of-the-art Animal Centre.

Addressing Critical Industry Challenges

The conference addressed critical industry challenges, including animal motion sickness, transport risks, equine transport complexities, avoiding paperwork errors, and the nutritional consequences of transporting horses.

The conference strongly focused on the ‘prevention is better than the cure’ approach to improve animal welfare throughout the supply chain.

“The safe transport of live animals requires expertise, collaboration, continuous innovation, and respect for animals. At Qatar Airways Cargo, we are committed to setting the highest standards and supporting industry-wide improvements,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo.

Read: Qatar Airways Cargo and Unilode Enter into Transformative Digitalization Partnership

Newly appointed ATA President Willem Lodewijk Berk added: “Taking on this role is a great responsibility. The industry is facing new challenges, and it’s essential that we work together to improve safety, compliance, and animal welfare.” 

Official Host and Sponsor

As the official host and sponsor, Qatar Airways Cargo arranged a visit for participants to see its state-of-the-art Animal Centre.

The 5,260 sqm facility enhances the experience for animals at Hamad International Airport with cutting-edge features.

The air cargo carrier reaffirms its commitment to animal welfare, enhancing transport standards with industry leaders.

Qatar Airways Cargo and QAS Cargo are the first globally to complete all IATA CEIV certifications, including CEIV Live recertification.

It will continue to confirm its commitment to initiatives such as its WeQare – Rewild the Planet programme.

Emirates SkyCargo Freighter A6-EFV Receives New Signature Livery

Emirates SkyCargo freighter A6-EFV was delivered in July 2024 without livery and was deployed immediately to serve the booming global demand. This week, it has rolled out of Emirates Engineering as the first freighter to don the airline’s distinctive new livery colors.

Over the course of eight days, a team of specialists from Emirates Engineering’s in-house paint shop applied the refreshed livery. The biggest change is to the UAE flag on the tailfin, which has been a staple of the Emirates branding since the very beginning. Now, the design is more dynamic and flowing, with 3D effect artwork; likewise, the iconic gold lettering across the main body in English and Arabic is bigger and bolder. The Arabic calligraphy on the engines remains, as does the iconic red branding on the aircraft belly, ensuring key elements of the airline’s identity remain consistent.

Nadeem Sultan, Senior Vice President of Cargo Planning and Freighters, Emirates SkyCargo said: “Emirates SkyCargo freighters are some of the most instantly recognizable aircraft in the skies, flying valuable commodities to and from 38 destinations worldwide. The investment in new livery represents our ongoing commitment to modernize our fleet, as we continue to build our capacity and unlock new opportunities to serve our global customers.”

The new livery, which was first unveiled in March 2023, is the third iteration of Emirates’ iconic aircraft brand colors since launch in 1985. All 10 Boeing 777 freighters in Emirates’ fleet will be gradually scheduled for their paint jobs and new freighters, of which Emirates SkyCargo has 13 on order, will come fully decked out on delivery.

Also Read: Atlas Air Expands Partnership with SATS and WFS.

Emirates SkyCargo is the freight division of Emirates. With an unrivalled route network, we connect cargo customers to over 155 cities across six continents and operate in many of the world’s fastest developing markets. Our cargo hold capacity comprises Emirates’ fleet of over 265 aircraft, including 12 freighters – 11 Boeing 777-Fs and one B747F. During the last Financial Year (2018/19) Emirates SkyCargo carried 2.7 million tonnes of cargo. Emirates SkyCargo has developed transportation solutions for specific verticals including pharmaceuticals and perishables.

Watch a timelapse video of the new livery being applied to the aircraft at Emirates Engineering’s in-house facility.

Atlas Air Expands Partnership with SATS and WFS

Atlas Air Inc., a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc., a leading global provider of outsourced aviation logistics, recently announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SATS Limited and Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) to expand their global cooperation and to leverage each other’s networks.

The MoU aims to build on the strong working relationships between SATS, WFS and Atlas Air, particularly in North America where WFS provides handling for the airline at eight major airport gateways: Chicago, Dallas Fort Worth, Denver, Houston, Indianapolis,

Miami, New York JFK, and Seattle. In addition, the agreement will also expand cooperation in Singapore, the headquarters of the SATS Group, as well as in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This includes strengthening relationships for warehouse services, freighter ramp handling, and crew transport solutions.

The MoU is the first of its kind between Atlas Air, which operates the world’s largest fleet of B747 freighters and SATS, one of the world’s largest providers of air cargo handling services. It expands the relationship between the partners to work together on a fully

integrated ground and cargo handling model to address the growing demands of ecommerce as well as network solutions to facilitate growth in air cargo volumes, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, and other high value shipments. The partners will also

collaborate on the development of digital and automation solutions to provide expanded supply chain visibility and traceability of cargo throughout the combined networks.

Commitment Reflection

Reflecting their shared commitments, Atlas Air, SATS and WFS have also pledged to achieve further collaboration on major international airfreight trade lanes and cooperate on green and low-carbon initiatives which minimize the environmental impact of air cargo.

“This expanded partnership with SATS and WFS is a testament to our shared vision for the future of air cargo,” said Martin Drew, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “By combining SATS and WFS’ extensive ground handling expertise with Atlas Air’s global network and commitment to innovation, we can unlock new opportunities for growth and efficiency.”

Drew added, “This collaboration will deliver significant benefits to our customers by enhancing visibility, service quality, and reliability. It will also drive meaningful progress across the industry by promoting sustainability and spearheading digital transformation.

We are confident this partnership will provide exceptional value and further strengthen our position as a global leader in the air cargo market.”

“We are pleased to have Atlas Air partner with SATS and WFS as we work together to drive efficiencies in the air cargo supply chain to better serve our customers,” said Kerry Mok, SATS President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our worldwide network, combined

with Atlas Air’s fleet of freighters and global presence, offers immense opportunities to develop value-added and specialised services that deliver speed and traceability to enhance our customers’ competitiveness.”

SATS and WFS handle over 237,800 tonnes of airfreight annually for Atlas Air at these locations, carried onboard some 5,300 freighter flights.

Saudia Cargo Reports 27% Growth in 2024 Cargo Volume

Saudia Cargo, the leading air cargo carrier in Saudi Arabia, has announced significant achievements in 2024.

Driven by a strategic focus on innovation, expansion, and sustainability, these milestones reinforce its commitment to the national economy and solidify its role as a key player in the global supply chain.

Commenting on the year’s success, Eng. Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director of Saudia Cargo said: “Our 2024 results reflect our steadfast dedication to delivering innovative and agile cargo solutions that drive global trade and adapt to market dynamics. We remain focused on growth, strengthening partnerships, and providing advanced solutions that drive success for our customers. By prioritizing sustainability and operational excellence, we are steadily progressing toward our goal of ranking among the world’s top 10 air cargo carriers by 2030.”

Operational Growth

In 2024, the company demonstrated significant operational growth, marked by an increase in cargo volume and flight activity. The company transported 577,870 tons of cargo in 2024, representing a 27% growth in transported weight and a 13% increase compared to 2023. It also conducted 193,599 flights, representing a 6% rise year-over-year.  E-commerce shipments saw a remarkable 23% growth, totalling 64,107 tons, while high-value shipments accounted for 54% of total revenues, highlighting the company’s ability to meet priority sector needs with reliable services.

Saudia Cargo also maintained an impressive 92% on-time flight performance, underscoring its operational efficiency and reinforcing customer trust. Adding to its expanding network, the company introduced new permanent routes to key markets, including Shenzhen (China), and seasonal routes to Athens (Greece), and Nice (France), strengthening connectivity between the Kingdom and global markets.

Saudia Cargo Homegrown Exports

Championing homegrown exports, Saudia Cargo transported 13,740 tons of locally produced goods, a 14% increase from 2023. This commitment was reinforced by strategic partnerships, including an MoU with Red Sea Global to connect the Kingdom to over 800 global destinations and a collaboration with the Royal Commission for AlUla to transport artifacts and boost tourism. Additionally, the company partnered with the Saudi Logistics Academy to upskill 300 employees, fostering a knowledge-driven workforce.

Advancing its sustainability practices, Saudia Cargo collaborated with the Ministry of Economy and Planning through the Sustainability Champions Program. It issued its inaugural Sustainability Report for 2024, detailing initiatives to reduce energy consumption and harmful emissions. A dedicated committee was also established to oversee carbon reduction plans aligned with IATA’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The company further enhanced its digital offerings by 10%, launched a specialized e-portal, and improved communication channels, raising customer satisfaction to 47 points and achieving a cybersecurity rating of 81.8% from the National Cybersecurity Authority.

Saudia Cargo received recognition for its leadership in innovative and reliable air freight solutions by winning the “Excellence in Air Cargo Operations in the Kingdom” award and the “Best E-Commerce Carrier in the Middle East” award.

Globally, it bolstered the Kingdom’s competitiveness by participating in the “Air Cargo China 2024” exhibition alongside its SkyTeam Cargo partners and the “Saudi Made” program, supporting national exports and accessing emerging global markets.

Saudia Cargo plans to expand its fleet, adopt sustainable methods, and invest in AI infrastructure for improved tracking and efficiency.

The company also plans to advance automated cargo handling systems, reduce costs, and implement eco-friendly logistics.

Saudia Cargo leverages Saudi Arabia’s location to drive economic growth and achieve Vision 2030, guided by its ‘Life Uninterrupted’ promise.

Chinese New Year Marks 20 Years of Chapman Freeborn in China

Beijing, China: Chapman Freeborn will mark this week its over 20 years of operating in China with the opening of its first offices in Beijing and Hong Kong in 2004.

Chapman Freeborn’s China operations have grown exponentially over the last 20 years, opening five offices, leveraging capacity across the Chapman Freeborn Group – including Magma Aviation’s direct charter flights – to seize opportunities in new markets like e-commerce, and earlier last year appointing Allen Liu to oversee operations across the new Greater China region.

“Over the last 20 years, Chapman Freeborn has cemented its place as a trusted partner across Greater China, strengthening resilience across supply chains,” said Allen Liu, President – Greater China, Chapman Freeborn.

“In an uncertain world, air cargo charter services offer a genuine alternative to scheduled flights, providing the flexibility needed to fulfil time critical deliveries and prevent spiralling costs.

“As we look to the future, I am determined to build on the double-digit growth in the volume of chartered flights last year, implement our long-term strategy to continue increasing cargo capacity, and strengthen our freight forwarding business as we deepen our commitment to the Chinese market.”

Liu joined Chapman Freeborn in 2012 and has held several roles, including Senior Cargo Manager for China and Vice President of Cargo for North Asia, during which he established new regional offices in Shenzhen and Chengdu.

Chapman Freeborn will celebrate their twenty-year anniversary with a reception for senior leaders across the air freight industry later this year, and again at Air Cargo Southeast Asia, Singapore, in October.

Dubai Customs unveils ‘Shahin’ digital platform as it marks World Customs Day

Dubai, UAE: Dubai Customs celebrated World Customs Day on 26 January reaffirming its commitment to fostering a more efficient, secure and prosperous future for global trade and unveiling its latest innovative solution, the “Shahin” digital platform which is designed to track trucks and shipments.

The Shahin initiative, in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Border Security, and the Security Industries Regulatory Authority, aims to enhance the security framework and facilitate trade within the UAE.

Under the theme, “Committed to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” Customs agencies worldwide celebrated the World Customs Day, echoing the call of the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) to prioritize innovation and collaboration.

“On January 26th every year, World Customs Organization and its member customs authorities celebrate World Customs Day. This day is an opportunity to honor the dedication and commitment of customs teams, support informed decisions to ensure sufficient resources to address challenges effectively, and to highlight the importance of elevating customs standards in line with the ambitions of our member administrations. This year’s theme emphasizes the need for practical steps to facilitate trade while ensuring security and sustainable growth, embodying the commitment of customs authorities to efficiency, security, and prosperity,” said WCO Secretary General, Mr. Kunio Mikuriya, in a recorded message.

On this occasion, His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman & CEO of DP World, Chairman of the Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation, expressed that the UAE has excelled in foreseeing the future of the economic sector, thanks to the visionary leadership that has implemented proactive strategies. These strategies have helped elevate the UAE’s position as a global trade and economic hub.

He emphasized that this foresight has fostered comprehensive trade and economic partnerships, enabling the UAE to meet global challenges, ensuring sustainable growth, and continuous innovation across various sectors.

Since the launch of the UAE’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) in September 2021, the country has signed 24 CEPA agreements with strategically important nations and regional blocs, collectively representing approximately 2.5 billion people. This has had a positive impact on the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade, which reached an unprecedented AED 2.8 trillion in 2024.

Furthermore, foreign direct investments are projected to reach AED 130 billion and industrial exports are expected to hit AED 190 billion for the first time.

“In line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Customs continues its unwavering commitment to developing digital services and programs that enhance efficiency, security, and prosperity in customs operations and Dubai’s external trade,” said Bin Sulayem.

Dubai Customs recently unveiled its unique “Seamless Inspections” project, which moves the customs inspection process directly to company warehouses. This shift has directly reduced customs processing times by more than 50%, while also enhancing operational efficiency and boosting Dubai’s commercial and logistical competitiveness by increasing supply chain flexibility and fluidity.

In the area of collaborative efforts to combat the smuggling of prohibited goods and ensure community safety, Dubai Customs has strengthened its cooperation with the World Customs Organization (WCO), the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and other relevant international organizations. This partnership facilitates the exchange of information and expertise to support global customs work.