Dubai Customs thwarts smuggling of 10.8m counterfeit items in 2024

Dubai Customs recorded 54 seizures involving 10.8 million counterfeit items in 2024, as part of its efforts to protect intellectual property rights.

This effort also strengthens Dubai’s investment environment by enabling producers to avoid losses resulting from brand counterfeiting.

Dubai Customs staff and inspectors are given advanced training, to equip them with skills needed to detect counterfeiting and piracy. Efforts are reinforced by innovations and technologies in inspection, along with the use of smart IT applications to optimise operational effectiveness.

Director-General of Dubai Customs, Dr. Abdulla Busenad, highlighted that the emirate's commercial sector is thriving, in line with the economic objectives outlined in Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and the Ruler of Dubai.

Dubai's multi-country network has contributed to growth in foreign trade, with sea freight up by 23 per cent, land freight by 21 per cent, and air freight by 11.3 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023.

Dubai Customs saw a 49.2 per cent growth in customs data in 2024 compared to the previous year. Its smart services have gained global recognition as a benchmark in modern customs practices. The department also made significant strides in protecting intellectual property, seizing over 10.8 million items.

Dubai Customs continues to safeguard Dubai’s borders, achieving 3,273 seizures. Its efforts are vital for protecting both the economy and society. The department has also made impressive progress on key projects, completing 55 out of 84 initiatives in 2024, resulting in a five per cent increase in handled cargo, eight per cent more passenger bags, and a nine per cent rise in processed passengers.