From 28 April to 2 May 2025, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted its first national study mission on blockchain technology under the Smart Customs Project in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates. The mission was supported by the Customs Cooperation Fund of China (CCF China).
The mission was welcomed by His Excellency Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, who expressed strong support for the initiative and emphasized the importance of sharing innovative practices within the international Customs community.
The discussions provided valuable insights into Abu Dhabi Customs’ digital transformation strategy and journey, including the innovative “Invisible Customs” concept. Particular focus was placed on the adoption of disruptive technologies, especially blockchain, and how these initiatives align with the Administration’s overall strategic priorities.
The example of the TradeChain platform developed by Abu Dhabi Customs provided insights into the current applications of blockchain technology within the Customs environment. Building upon this foundation, Abu Dhabi Customs is actively extending the use of blockchain into potential future areas of focus, such as e-commerce and the development of the Virtual Digital Trade Corridor.
A site visit to the Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone provided valuable insights into the current landscape of cross-border e-commerce, as well as the potential for its future integration with blockchain technology. Discussions with end users utilizing blockchain-based solutions provided a deeper understanding of how the integration of the operator’s export declaration system with the blockchain platform and the Customs risk management system enables seamless, paperless supervision and automatic approvals. Looking ahead, further enhancements are planned and will include the development of a “one-click” automated declaration process.
In an effort to advance technological collaboration, Abu Dhabi Customs is actively pursuing international cooperation and pilot projects with other Customs administrations, reaffirming its commitment to shaping the future of smart and connected Customs operations.
A detailed case study on the implementation of blockchain by Abu Dhabi Customs, based on the mission’s findings, will be published on the Smart Customs Community Portal and will contribute to updating the WCO Study Report on Disruptive Technologies.
For more information on the Smart Customs Project, please visit the WCO website or contact: [email protected].