Dubai Customs has confirmed that its services are now fully automated and digital, with 117 countries around the globe adopting one of its smart platforms. The time required for goods classification has dramatically decreased from a full day to only two seconds.
According to Jumaa Al-Ghaith, Executive Director of Artificial Intelligence at Dubai Customs, the department’s plans for AI are perfectly aligned with the strategic objectives of the Dubai government, which aims to establish the city as a global hub for AI and digital innovation. He explained that Dubai Customs’ strategy focuses on integrating AI technologies at all levels of customs operations, transforming systems and services into a comprehensive digital framework that enhances performance and provides a proactive, efficient experience for users, in line with the “Dubai AI Strategy” and the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
Al-Ghaith emphasized that Dubai Customs’ journey into AI involves not only importing technological solutions but also creating a comprehensive institutional environment based on innovation, capacity development, and enhancing the digital infrastructure. This approach establishes a governmental model rooted in data, predictive analysis, and machine learning. He noted that the AI and blockchain projects launched by the department have gained both national and global recognition, including the next-generation customs classification platform “Coordinator 2.0,” which has redefined customs classification processes worldwide.
Regarding e-commerce, Al-Ghaith explained that the first cross-border e-commerce initiative in the region has yielded significant results, including a reduction in the effort required for e-commerce businesses by over 90%. The time to process customs transactions has been cut down by 93.6%, and the completion time for e-commerce goods journeys has accelerated by 57%. Additionally, this initiative has led to operational cost savings and a streamlined user experience, reducing the transaction steps from eight to just two.