UAE Customs security score rises to 50%

The UAE’s customs security score rose from 37.5% to 50% in the 2026 Competitiveness Report, marking the biggest relative improvement among the measured pillars. The Trade Facilitation index also increased to 91.5%, pointing to faster and more efficient movement of goods.

Dubai Customs said the improvement was supported by greater use of data, artificial intelligence and risk-based inspections. Its Smart Risk Engine assesses shipments and assigns risk levels, helping customs teams focus checks on higher-risk cargo.

Advance Cargo Information allows shipment data to be reviewed before cargo arrives, supporting earlier decisions and reducing manual intervention. The Green Corridor also provides faster clearance for compliant shipments.

Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs, said: "Dubai Customs plays a pivotal role as one of the key enablers of trade and the economy, through an integrated operating framework that goes beyond traditional oversight of goods movement, contributing effectively to supporting the competitiveness of the national economy and accelerating its sustainable growth.

This is achieved through the development of customs operations, the streamlining of procedures, the smart use of data and artificial intelligence, strengthening the security and continuity of supply chains, and elevating the customer experience — converting operational efficiency into sustainable economic and competitive value."

For the logistics sector, these systems can help reduce delays at the border and make cargo movement more predictable. Faster clearance can also help companies manage delivery schedules and reduce the time goods spend waiting for customs procedures.

The report said the UAE ranked ninth globally in export trade in 2025, with total trade reaching $707 billion. Jebel Ali Port also improved its position in the Container Port Performance Index, moving from 49th to 26th globally.