Abu dhabi: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Technology Conference and Exhibition 2026 began today at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
According to Emirates News Agency, the event is organised by the WCO under the theme "Customs Agility in a Complex World: Securing and Facilitating Trade through Innovation" and is hosted by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). During the opening session, Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, stated that hosting the event reflects the UAE's vision to establish itself as a global hub for innovation and trade facilitation. The conference aims to support sustainable development, security, and global economic prosperity through technology.
Al Shamsi emphasized the importance of digital innovation in developing customs systems worldwide, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and protecting supply chains, aligning with the objectives of the WCO and the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda. He highlighted the UAE's proactive approach to modern technologies such as artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics to develop the customs sector and ensure a secure trade environment.
He further stressed the necessity of international cooperation and technological partnerships in building smart customs systems capable of addressing cross-border challenges. Al Shamsi commended the WCO for organizing the conference as a platform for dialogue and reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to supporting WCO efforts in enhancing cooperation and developing smart systems.
In his address, Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahaj Al Falasi, Director-General of Customs and Port Security at the Authority, noted that hosting the event alongside International Customs Day underscores the UAE's status as a global destination for international events and a strategic partner in the global customs system. He outlined the key pillars for future customs development and the growing impact of artificial intelligence on global trade.
Ian Saunders, Secretary-General of the WCO, highlighted the essential role of customs administrations in economic and social prosperity. He noted the conference's focus on innovation to enhance border security and facilitate legitimate trade, covering areas like risk management, data analysis, and sustainability. Saunders also mentioned WCO initiatives like the Cargo Targeting System and the Smart Security Devices Initiative.
The conference features more than 1,400 participants, including representatives from WCO member states, senior customs officials, technology providers, and other stakeholders. The first day included tours of an exhibition showcasing advanced customs systems, a press conference, and panel discussions on topics such as customs resilience and smart scanning technologies.