Dubai Customs, in a strategic partnership with Emirates SkyCargo, the logistics arm of Emirates airline, has implemented an integrated logistics bridge designed to strengthen trade flows and ensure the efficient delivery of goods to local and regional markets.
The system has been designed to ensure the continuous flow of goods through the Dubai International Airport Cargo Village and Maktoum International Airport Air Cargo Centre. It is expected to accelerate customs clearance, boost operational capacity and strengthen food and pharmaceutical security locally and across the Gulf region, at a time when geopolitical developments have placed pressure on global trade and supply chains.
Operational indicators show that total imported goods cleared through both facilities rose from 26,559,019kg in January 2026 to 48,259,442kg in May 2026, a growth of over 82%. The daily maximum of goods handled also rose from 1,236,537kg in January to 2,106,645kg in May, reflecting operational capacity and flexibility in absorbing growing demand without affecting processing speed or service quality.
Dubai Customs said that the logistics bridge’s impact extends beyond the local market to supporting supply chain continuity across the GCC, with Dubai leveraging its position as a regional logistics hub to ensure vital shipments reached their final destinations despite changing regional circumstances.
Support operations through May 2026 included 529 truck logistics trips transporting 2,636 tons of essential goods, including meat, pharmaceutical preparations and general merchandise. These efforts established an effective supply corridor that maintained the smooth flow of vital goods to Gulf markets.
Abdulla bin Damithan, chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, said, “Every challenge is an opportunity to demonstrate our efficiency and reinforce Dubai’s role as a trusted global trading hub. We will continue strengthening integration across the maritime, customs and logistics sectors, enhancing our readiness to respond to change, and ensuring Dubai remains a reliable gateway for global trade and resilient supply chains.”
Dr. Abdulla Busenad, director general of Dubai Customs, added, “We will continue advancing our digital solutions and smart services in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, further reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading global gateway for trade.”
Dubai Customs implemented an advanced system of smart initiatives, including the Green Corridor and Shahin initiative, which created a fast and secure pathway for priority shipments including food, pharmaceuticals and essential goods. Customs teams and inspection departments ensured business continuity throughout the period of rapidly changing regional developments.
Both cargo facilities saw targeted operational measures to boost capacity and accelerate cargo handling, including expanding field inspection activities, using available space at the main cargo terminal, and adding new inspection windows. This reduced congestion, accelerated processing times and ensured continuous shipment flow during peak periods.
Badr Abbas, divisional senior vice president at Emirates SkyCargo, said, “Close cooperation with Dubai Customs and relevant government agencies played a significant role in ensuring the continuous flow of vital shipments and expediting logistics operations to meet the needs of local, regional and global markets.”
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