Dubai Customs Measures Unlock AED79 Million for Businesses and Safeguard AED33.9 Billion in Trade
Dubai Customs has facilitated over AED79 million in liquidity support to the private sector, ensuring the stability of AED33.9 billion in trade flows through a series of customs facilitation measures. These initiatives were introduced under economic support packages approved by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.
Implemented from March 1 to June 30, 2026, these measures aimed to bolster businesses amid regional developments, enhance economic resilience, and guarantee the seamless movement of goods through Dubai’s trade and logistics network. The initiatives have been crucial in maintaining business continuity for thousands of companies, strengthening supply-chain resilience, and boosting investor confidence, all while aligning with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Supporting Businesses Through Uncertainty
Abdulla bin Damithan, Chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, emphasized that Dubai’s swift response to changing circumstances is a cornerstone of its economic strength. He noted that the corporation mobilized its resources to provide practical solutions that enabled businesses to sustain operations and reinforced confidence in Dubai’s business environment.
Bin Damithan remarked that supporting the business community during exceptional circumstances is vital for protecting economic gains and fostering growth. He assured that the corporation will continue to enhance services, facilitate trade, and improve the ease of doing business.
More Than 4,000 New Customers
Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director-General of Dubai Customs, stated that the facilitation measures reflect Dubai’s proactive approach to responding to both regional and international developments. He highlighted that over 4,000 new customers joined Dubai Customs between March and June 2026, showcasing ongoing confidence in Dubai’s economic and trade ecosystem.
Direct Financial Support
A key component of the economic support package focused on alleviating financial and operational pressures on companies through several measures:
- Extension of deadlines for suspended customs duty cases.
- Customs duty installment plans.
- An 80 percent reduction in financial penalties.
According to Dubai Customs, these measures generated more than AED79 million in liquidity for 428 companies, aiding businesses in maintaining operations and enhancing cash flow. Under Customs Notice No. (12/2026), 6,613 companies benefited from a 120-day extension for customs declarations covering import-for-re-export transactions, temporary admission, and transit activities. This extension provided businesses with added flexibility in managing customs obligations while supporting trade continuity and supply-chain efficiency.
Additional measures introduced under Customs Notices Nos. (14/2026) and (15/2026) included installment options for customs duties, reduced penalties, extended transit periods from 30 to 90 days, and streamlined entry procedures for consignments arriving through Khorfakkan Port, Fujairah Port, and the Hatta Border Crossing. Priority customs processing was also extended to food and pharmaceutical shipments.
Green Corridor Keeps Trade Moving
To ensure uninterrupted trade flows, Dubai Customs launched the Green Corridor, which facilitates the movement of goods through alternative routes, assisting businesses in navigating supply-chain challenges.
Between March 1 and June 30, 2026, the initiative facilitated:
- More than 203,242 containers
- Over 3.16 million tonnes of goods
- Trade valued at over AED33.9 billion
- Commercial activity involving 188 countries
Food products were the leading commodities moved through the corridor, valued at more than AED5.3 billion, followed by machinery and electrical equipment worth AED4.24 billion, vehicles valued at AED2.21 billion, plastics at AED1.5 billion, and iron and steel products exceeding AED1 billion. The remaining goods were valued at over AED19.6 billion, highlighting the diversity of Dubai’s trade base.
Faster Clearance and Stronger Engagement
During this period, Dubai Customs processed medicines and pharmaceutical products worth AED446.6 million and continued to enhance its digital capabilities through the Shahin platform. This platform employs smart electronic seals and advanced tracking technologies to expedite cargo movement and improve operational efficiency.
The authority maintained an instant customs clearance rate of 93 percent, which helped accelerate transactions and reduce processing times. Dubai Customs also strengthened its engagement with the private sector by reviewing over 83 challenges and proposals related to customs clearance, logistics services, and shipping costs. Several recommendations were implemented as practical measures aimed at improving service delivery and enhancing trade flexibility.
These results underscore Dubai’s ability to adapt swiftly to changing economic conditions while maintaining trade continuity and supporting businesses, reinforcing its status as a leading global hub for trade and logistics.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-07-19 17:19:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk