DUBAI: Dubai Customs has successfully seized 10.8 million counterfeit goods across 54 operations in 2024, reinforcing its commitment to intellectual property protection and economic growth. By cracking down on brand counterfeiting, the department is safeguarding businesses from financial losses and enhancing Dubai’s investment-friendly environment.

To combat smuggling, Dubai Customs has intensified training for its staff and inspectors, equipping them with advanced skills to detect counterfeits. Cutting-edge AI-driven inspection technologies and smart IT applications further enhance operational efficiency, making Dubai a global leader in modern customs practices.

Highlighting Dubai’s booming commercial sector, Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director-General of Dubai Customs, linked these efforts to the Dubai D33 Economic Agenda, spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The emirate’s foreign trade is surging, with sea freight up by 23%, land freight by 21%, and air freight by 11.3% compared to 2023.

Dubai Customs reported a 49.2% increase in customs data processing in 2024, reflecting the success of its digital transformation. Additionally, the department achieved 3,273 total seizures, reinforcing border security and curbing illicit trade.

Beyond enforcement, Dubai Customs made significant progress in strategic initiatives, completing 55 out of 84 key projects in 2024. This contributed to a 5% rise in cargo handling, 8% more passenger baggage processed, and a 9% increase in passengers cleared.

With a strong focus on innovation and security, Dubai Customs continues to drive international trade, ensuring a safe, efficient, and competitive commercial hub.