Dubai: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, attended the launch of the 28th Universal Postal Congress. This event, themed 'Leading Change, Creating the Future', is set to run until 19 September, 2025, and includes high-level delegations from 192 member countries of the Universal Postal Union (UPU).
According to Emirates News Agency, the Congress is co-organised by the UPU and 7X, the UAE's official representative to the Union. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed toured the UAE Pavilion, which showcases the nation's postal evolution from traditional stamps to modern digital systems and features innovations from technology firms and logistics providers. The Congress will facilitate agreements between public and private sectors and include events organized by participating delegations.
During the visit, Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed signed the first edition of the official stamp marking the UAE's hosting of the Congress. This underscores the UAE's pivotal role in global postal services and its commitment to digital transformation. Badr Al-Olama, Honorary Chair of the Congress and Chairman of 7X, led the opening session, witnessing the election of Tariq Ahmed Al Wahedi as Chair of the Congress.
The first day set the agenda and confirmed specialized Congress bodies, initiating discussions on global strategies and operational projects. With over 2,200 participants, the Congress underscores its global significance and the UAE's capacity to provide a seamless hybrid experience.
The Congress also featured the 'UPU Global Leaders Summit', gathering ministers and leaders to forge a shared vision for postal and logistics services' future. Al-Olama emphasized the Congress's role in setting the stage for future postal services and the UAE's commitment to consensus-building and partnership.
Masahiko Metoki, Director General of the UPU, highlighted the Congress as a platform for strengthening the global postal network, fostering unity and common solutions despite regional differences.
The Congress will adopt the UPU's 'Dubai Strategy' for 2026-2029, focusing on service quality, inclusivity, digital transformation, and sustainability. Upcoming deliberations will update postal exchange regulations, remuneration frameworks, and elect new leadership for the UPU.
Tariq Ahmed Al Wahedi outlined ambitions to accelerate digital transformation through modern governance, smart infrastructure, and partnerships. This includes updating exchange rules, enhancing postal financial services, and supporting green energy transitions.
Designed by Emirati artist Yasmin Al Mulla, the official stamp commemorates the UAE's hosting and reflects the nation's journey through art. By hosting this Congress, the UAE reaffirms its role in the international postal and logistics sector, prioritizing people, knowledge, and advanced technologies for a sustainable future.