DUBAI, 21st August, 2026 (WAM) — Dubai Customs has deployed a comprehensive operational plan featuring round-the-clock staffing, advanced screening technology, and digital declaration tools to manage the influx of returning residents and international visitors following the summer break.
The plan focuses on ramping up field and operational teams, speeding up customs procedures and deploying advanced technology to keep passengers moving efficiently. It reflects Dubai’s ability to manage high-volume travel periods while maintaining the highest standards of customs security and community protection. The plan includes increasing staffing levels in arrival halls, flexibly deploying personnel based on flight schedules and peak periods, reinforcing high-traffic areas and enhancing the technical performance of screening equipment. These measures enable teams to handle passenger and baggage flows efficiently, reducing the time between arrival and completion of customs procedures.
Customs teams operate around the clock at Dubai’s air entry points, supported by an advanced technology infrastructure that includes 77 baggage screening machines: 58 for checked and large baggage and 19 for carry-on luggage, in addition to supporting inspection equipment. The system helps accelerate baggage screening and improve detection accuracy, working alongside the expertise of customs inspectors, who assess indicators of potential risk and direct inspections efficiently. The result is a balance between faster passenger processing and rigorous customs controls.
Smart technology shortens the arrival process
Alongside its field operations, Dubai Customs is using digital services to further streamline the arrival experience. Among these is its smart “iDeclare” service, which works across a range of smart devices and allows passengers to declare personal belongings and accompanying gifts before they arrive.
The service can reduce the time needed to complete customs procedures through the red channel from 45 minutes to less than five minutes, giving passengers a faster experience while easing pressure on service points during peak periods.
Dubai Customs’ role during the back-to-Dubai season also extends beyond operations. As a strategic partner within oneDXB, the organization is participating in the “Back to Dubai” celebration organized by Dubai Airports to welcome returning residents and families as the new school year begins.
The initiative adds a welcoming and human dimension to operational efficiency, turning the arrival experience into one that reflects Dubai’s spirit and its tradition of hospitality toward residents and visitors.
This reflects an integrated approach to the passenger journey, from completing procedures quickly to delivering a warm welcome. It also strengthens coordination among the various entities operating at Dubai’s airports, ensuring that the arrival experience matches the high standard of services for which the emirate is known as a global destination for living, working and tourism.
Planning ahead for peak travel
Khalid Ahmed, Director of Passenger Operations at Dubai Customs, said: “We prepare for the return-season peak well in advance by analyzing flight schedules and passenger volumes. This allows us to deploy personnel and operational resources to the busiest areas at the right time.
“Our plan is built around round-the-clock operations, the optimal use of screening equipment and advanced technologies, and the expertise of our inspectors. This ensures we can accommodate the increase in arriving passengers while maintaining fast procedures and high-quality service.”
He added: “Operational efficiency during peak periods is measured not only by the volume of passengers we can handle, but also by how easy we make the journey for travelers and our ability to save them time and reduce procedures while maintaining border security and protecting the community.
“That is why we continue to invest in inspector expertise, develop digital tools, and use data and risk analysis to make inspections more targeted and effective. Our goal is for every arriving passenger to experience the level of service Dubai is known for from the moment they land.”
Ahmed stressed that continuous coordination with Dubai Airports, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, Dubai Police, Emirates, flydubai and other airport partners is a key pillar of peak-period management.
He noted that this integrated approach strengthens the ability to respond flexibly to changes in flight volumes and aligns the efforts of all stakeholders to deliver an arrival experience befitting Dubai’s global standing. These efforts support Dubai’s drive to develop a travel experience built around speed, efficiency and digital solutions. Dubai’s airports are among the emirate’s most prominent gateways to the world and key points of connection for millions of travelers each year.
They also reflect Dubai Customs’ continued efforts to strengthen its passenger operations through technology, skilled personnel and effective partnerships. This enables the organization to keep pace with sustained growth in international travel, support the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and strengthen Dubai’s competitiveness and position as a leading global destination for living, working and tourism.
Source: Emirates News Agency
