Dubai, UAE – The ‘UAE Customs’ logo, representing a unified visual identity for the customs sector in the UAE, was officially unveiled on Thursday. This new identity symbolizes the cohesion and effective partnership among the federal and local components of the customs sector, strengthening the country’s international representation and presence in global forums.
Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, supported and guided the initiative. The new visual identity was launched by Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of the Authority, during the 2024 Customs Partners event held by the General Customs Administration in Dubai.
The event featured the recognition of several ministries, authorities, current and former customs leaders, and private sector companies. Additionally, numerous customs inspectors and employees from various administrations were honoured for their exceptional contributions to customs projects, initiatives, and successful operations.
In a virtual address, Ian Saunders, Secretary-General of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), highlighted the significance of the event as a reaffirmation of the strong partnership between the WCO and the UAE. Saunders praised the UAE for its commitment to enhancing global customs practices and noted the robust cooperation in vital areas such as rules of origin, intellectual property rights, risk management, and the control of small arms and light weapons.
“The WCO finds itself at a critical juncture, facing rapid technological advancements, environmental crises, and complex geopolitical dynamics. Through continuous collaboration with strong partners like the UAE, we can overcome these challenges and enhance customs practices that benefit not only WCO members but also the global trading community,” Saunders stated.
He commended the UAE’s Authorised Economic Operator programme, which currently benefits 123 trusted companies, significantly facilitating trade and security across borders.
In his opening speech, Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahej Al Falasi, Director-General of Customs at the Authority, emphasized the achievements of UAE Customs in digital transformation. He highlighted the innovation and development of various systems, applications, and devices in logistics operations, customs inspection, control, risk management, and the combating of drug and hazardous material smuggling, as well as money laundering and terrorism financing related to trade. These advancements have positioned UAE Customs as a regional and global leader.
The launch of the unified visual identity marks a significant step in consolidating the UAE’s customs sector and enhancing its role in international trade and security.
