Researching the integration of logistics services between Dubai ports and air cargo centres

During a meeting with Emirates Air Cargo, the shipping arm of Emirates Airlines, the Dubai Customs Department reviewed plans for integration and transportation of goods between air and sea freight, as well as benefiting from the employment of smart logistical solutions and systems provided by Dubai Customs, with the aim of accelerating the movement of shipments, increasing the flexibility of global supply chains, and supporting Dubai’s economic goals, which aim to develop an advanced and interconnected trade and logistics system.

The department stated, in a statement yesterday, that the meeting, which was held at the Jebel Ali Customs Center and TECOM, focused on how to support the smooth movement of global supply chains from Dubai, where methods of integrating digital systems and mechanisms for integrating logistics services between sea ports and air freight centers in the emirate were discussed, to ensure accurate tracking of commercial shipments, and to facilitate the smooth transfer of goods from sea containers to air freight.

She pointed out that the meeting represents an important step towards consolidating Dubai’s position as an integrated global logistics center capable of linking the markets of the Middle East and the world, reducing time and operational costs, while ensuring compliance with the highest international customs standards.

During the meeting, the advanced system for examining and inspecting shipments, heavy and light vehicles, large equipment and yachts at Jebel Ali Port was reviewed, via X-Ray scanning, which increases the port’s ability to double inspections and speed up procedures, due to its ability to reduce inspection time from six hours manually to just five minutes. The device works in two operating modes: fixed (gantry), where the vehicle is in a parked position, and mobile, where the vehicle is scanned as it passes through the device.

Dubai Customs also reviewed its ongoing efforts to develop pioneering logistical solutions based on modern technologies and artificial intelligence, which enhances Dubai’s ability to deal with global supply chain challenges and ensure the continuity of trade flow in various circumstances.

The two parties stressed that the next stage will witness greater integration of operations and the development of joint initiatives that support safe and sustainable trade and keep pace with the requirements of the future, thus enhancing the confidence of investors and customers in the Dubai customs and logistics system.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Director of the Air Cargo Centers Department at Dubai Customs, said: “The meeting is an important opportunity for shared visions between the public and private sectors, applying best practices in facilitating trade, achieving greater speed and efficiency in the supply chain, and discussing plans for integration between the transport of goods transported by air and sea, in a way that enhances the competitiveness of Dubai World, one of the most important global trade centres.”

For his part, Abbas Haji, Vice President of Air Cargo Operations at Emirates Sky Cargo, said: “Cooperation with (Dubai Customs) enhances our ability to accurately follow shipments and provide integrated logistical solutions that ensure the arrival of goods on time, with full compliance with customs procedures.”