Drones And Robot Dolphins Assisted Customs In Making 2,147 Drug Seizures In Dubai

Dubai Customs has reported that in 2022, they have registered a total of 4,235 customs cases, of which 2,147 were drug-related seizures, and 75 were seizures related to intellectual property. There were around 1,393 cases of customs violations and evasion of customs and excise duties.

The Department’s primary strategic aim is to protect and secure the community from future coming risks and enhance security to attract more investment.

Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, The Director General of Dubai Customs and CEO of the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, is committed and dedicated to growing strong global secure customs, which is the central and main objective of Dubai Customs’ 2021-2026 Strategy.

He acknowledges the crucial role played by customs officers and other experts and inspectors in boosting security, safeguarding society and the economy, and preventing the smuggling of restricted and counterfeit goods.

Dubai Customs has invented disruptive innovations in customs inspection systems, such as the “Smart Deterrence Drone”

Dubai is making significant strides toward becoming a global leader in the fight against drugs. Dubai Customs is actively participating in this fight by investing in its human resources to ensure that the highest customs inspection standards are met.

Dubai’s reputation as a global trading center and an attractive hub for investment and business are strengthened by its resolute commitment to protecting the health and safety of its citizens and residents, and also those who are in other countries can be impacted by smuggled goods transiting via Dubai.

Mohammed Abdullah Al-Suwaidi, the Acting Director of the Customs Intelligence Department, acknowledges the unwavering security awareness of customs port employees towards the country, its citizens, and residents, and their unflinching dedication to enhancing Dubai’s and the UAE’s global standing.

The Department’s steadfast commitment to upholding the most stringent customs inspection standards is a powerful statement to the world that Dubai will not tolerate any compromise when it’s about the safety and security of its citizens, the international community, and the global trade system. 

Dubai Customs’ stringent initiatives significantly contribute to protecting human lives, economies, and societies from the serious hazards and negative impacts of illicitly imported goods.

To enhance its security measures, Dubai Customs has incorporated a variety of advanced smart systems, including the Smart Risk Engine.

This highly sophisticated system employs multiple sources of data to aid in the monitoring of restricted and prohibited materials, effectively preventing their entry. By scrutinizing the information gathered, customs intelligence specialists at Dubai Customs can detect potential hazards and intercede with shipments that raise suspicion.

The Smart Risk Engine was internally developed and incorporates global best practices in risk systems. Moreover, the department launched an upgraded version of the smart inspection table for travelers called the “Smart Table” initiative.

The initiative is integrated with other customs systems, such as the reservation system and Mersal 2, to streamline screening procedures and increase precision.

Dubai Customs has been at the forefront of developing disruptive innovations in customs inspection systems, such as the “Smart Deterrence Drone.” This drone is a 3D-printed marvel that features a mesh rubber shield that renders it resistant to impact.

It can remarkably and accurately inspect the narrow and hazardous areas from air, sea, and land that pose risks to inspectors’ safety.

The drone is equipped with motion sensors that prevent collisions and a 4K resolution camera with night vision capabilities to capture images and videos inside for accurate documentation. It also connects to the Dubai Command control and room.

Another innovative invention is the “Siyaj Buggy,” which is deployed to inspect the undersides of vehicles and trucks. It boasts high-resolution imaging with recording and storage capacities, a 360-degree imaging range, and a control range of up to 30 meters, aimed at enhancing the Customs inspection system for the “Siyaj” initiative.

Furthermore, Dubai Customs has developed the “Customs Dolphins,” an advanced water robot that resembles a dolphin. It comes with an ultra-wide waterproof camera capable of automatically scanning a designated sea area identified by GPS.

The robot has a control and image transfer range of around 1000 meters, making it a highly efficient tool for Customs inspections.

Throughout 2022, Dubai Customs Intelligence Department strengthened its partnerships with relevant authorities, and its contribution and cooperation to numerous joint operations at the local, regional, and international levels have led to remarkable achievements in the reduction of the smuggling of hazardous and prohibited materials.

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The Australian Consulate, the German Consulate, the Middle East Regional Office (RILO), the French Consulate, and the Container Security Initiative (CSI) office have all issued certificates of appreciation, recognizing the department’s efforts.

Adel Al-Suwaidi, Director of Technical Support, reaffirmed the department’s dedication and commitment to developing customs inspection systems using the latest smart applications for information technology and artificial intelligence to remain in line with the latest advancements and upgradation in monitoring thorough inspection operations.

As per Al-Suwaidi, Dubai Customs has a crucial responsibility in strengthening and empowering the capabilities of customs centers by equipping them with sophisticated inspection tools and intelligent systems.

Moreover, the organization trains its K9 unit to detect any illicit attempts to transport prohibited substances, ensuring their radical preparedness.

The technical support department is also responsible for closely monitoring and enhancing the capabilities of the K9 unit, thereby guaranteeing its ability to carry out its critical mission at all times.