President Sheikh Mohamed has issued a law that reorganizes the General Administration of Abu Dhabi Customs, acting in his capacity as Ruler of Abu Dhabi. This move grants the entity an independent legal personality, empowering it to propose general policies and strategic plans for customs affairs in the emirate. The administration plays a crucial role in facilitating trade flow, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and protecting society from unlawful practices.
The administration’s responsibilities are multifaceted, including the inspection and valuation of authorized goods, collection of customs duties, taxes, and other applicable fees. It also oversees free zones, free markets, and customs warehouses according to applicable regulations. Additionally, the administration works closely with relevant authorities to investigate, detect, and combat customs violations and smuggling offenses, enforcing legal measures against violators. It manages conciliation settlements and the sale of seized, abandoned, and confiscated goods, while implementing customs exemptions.
As part of its broader mandate, the General Administration of Abu Dhabi Customs operates under the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development. It manages and operates customs offices in the emirate, implements customs policy, and proposes the establishment or closure of customs offices. The administration coordinates with relevant authorities to regulate the import, export, and transit of certain goods. It also facilitates the movement of goods across customs ports and free zones by coordinating logistics processes, regulating customs clearance, and monitoring customs brokers.
The reorganization aims to enhance the efficiency of customs operations and strengthen the emirate’s economic framework. By streamlining customs processes and enforcing regulations effectively, Abu Dhabi can better support trade and economic growth while maintaining a secure environment for businesses and residents alike.
The administration’s efforts to combat smuggling and customs-related crimes are integral to its mission. By working collaboratively with other authorities, it ensures that legal measures are enforced against violators, contributing to a safer and more compliant trade environment.
