UPDATE: Dubai has achieved a significant milestone in global trade as the World Customs Organization (WCO) has praised the city’s innovative cross-border e-commerce platform in a special trilingual report released on December 30, 2025. This recognition underscores Dubai’s leadership in customs innovation and digital transformation.
The WCO report highlights how Dubai Customs has set a global benchmark for effective customs services, demonstrating that advanced technology and strong partnerships can revolutionize border control. With the UAE’s e-commerce sector thriving, generating AED 32.3 billion ($8.8 billion) in 2024, and projected to reach AED 50.6 billion ($13.8 billion) by 2029, the impact on job creation and economic growth is profound.
Dubai Customs is on a mission to convert 20–30% of low-value e-commerce shipments to its platform, collaborating with multinational express couriers and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) to ensure all stakeholders benefit from enhanced trade facilitation. The platform aims to support e-commerce routes across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), further solidifying Dubai’s position as a leading logistics hub.
Juma Al Ghaith, Advisor to the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of Artificial Intelligence at Dubai Customs, stated, “The World Customs Organization’s praise reflects the depth of the transformation led by Dubai Customs in the world of trade and e-commerce.” He emphasized that this recognition embodies the vision of Dubai’s leadership to establish the city as a hub for the new economy.
Atiq Al Muhairi, Executive Director of Customs Development, noted that the e-commerce platform represents a significant leap in facilitating cross-border trade. He remarked, “The platform globally demonstrates how technology effectively facilitates trade,” showcasing Dubai Customs’ commitment to aligning the logistics system with the increasing volume of e-commerce traffic.
This unprecedented achievement aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to double the economy within a decade and rank Dubai among the top three economic cities globally. The focus on logistics innovation is vital to achieving these ambitious goals.
As Dubai continues to expand its e-commerce capabilities, the global community is taking notice. The WCO’s endorsement serves as not only a testament to Dubai’s current success but also as a catalyst for future developments in customs and trade facilitation.
Stay tuned for more updates on Dubai’s rapid advancements in digital commerce and customs innovation as the city solidifies its status as a global economic powerhouse.
