Dubai Customs is fast tracking the integration of artificial intelligence across its operations, aiming to sharpen decision making, boost efficiency and reinforce the emirate's standing as a global trade and logistics hub.
The move forms part of a broader push to modernise customs operations, strengthen supply chain resilience and support the UAE's wider drive toward agentic AI adoption. It also reflects the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to position the country among global leaders in advanced technology use.
Central to the effort is OCTA, an enterprise intelligence platform still in pilot development. The system is designed to support decision making, strengthen knowledge management and turn raw data into actionable insights that can improve policies and organisational performance.
Alongside OCTA, Dubai Customs is piloting its Advance Cargo Information system, which applies AI to assess shipment data before arrival. The tool is intended to improve risk management and help balance trade facilitation with border security.
Dr Abdulla Busenad, Director-General of Dubai Customs, said AI investment reflects a commitment to the future of trade rather than technology alone, noting that each initiative is meant to facilitate trade, build investor confidence and prepare the customs ecosystem for what lies ahead.
Adel Al Suwaidi, Director of the Strategy and Corporate Excellence Department, said the authority is building an integrated intelligence ecosystem where AI supports performance, innovation and decision making in line with global standards. He noted that OCTA relies on natural language understanding for knowledge management and analysis, while ACI strengthens proactive risk assessment through pre-arrival data.
Dubai Customs said the initiatives support the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and reinforce the emirate's position as a leading destination for business and investment.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
