Dubai Customs steps up the fight against drug smuggling with high-tech precision

Dubai – 25 June 2025: Dubai Customs continues to intensify its efforts across all customs centers and border points in the emirate to combat drug smuggling. This falls under a comprehensive national strategy aimed at protecting society from the dangers of this scourge. The department plays a key role in preventing smuggling attempts by enhancing inspection methods, strengthening international cooperation, and ramping up the training and qualification of inspectors.

Global leadership in safe customs

On the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed on June 26 each year, Yasser Al-Muslimi, Senior Customs Affairs Consultant and Supervisor of the Customs Inspection Sector at Dubai Customs, affirmed that Dubai has become a global model in combating contraband smuggling.

“With a 100% national workforce, our vision is to lead globally in safe customs—one of the pillars of our strategic plan. We maintain strong and comprehensive cooperation with relevant authorities in the fight against drug smuggling. Our combined efforts aim to reinforce Dubai’s standing as one of the best, safest cities in the world to live and work.

“We have equipped Dubai’s customs centers with the latest global inspection technologies and are vigorously advancing our inspection systems with top-tier capabilities to detect drugs and other prohibited items. The department has internally developed smart systems to identify potential risks. We are committed to investing in our human resources by providing top-level courses and workshops on modern smuggling methods, body language analysis, and identifying all types of contraband.”

High-profile seizures

Dubai Customs announced the successful interception of a 1.2-ton shipment of psychoactive substances, detected as it passed through the emirate’s air cargo terminal. The specialized teams relied on precise data analysis, detailed shipment scrutiny, and the use of cutting-edge security technologies. This operation highlights the inspectors’ ability to connect minute details and handle suspicious cases with skill and professionalism—reinforcing border security and preventing the entry of banned substances into society.

Dubai Customs also announced the thwarting of an attempt to smuggle 147.4 kilograms of narcotic drugs and psychoactive substances via one of the emirate’s seaports. Inspectors detected the suspicious shipment during transit and intensified surveillance and inspection efforts using the latest security tools and advanced technologies.