Dubai Customs today launched the World Logistics Passport as part of the implementation of the first phase of the Dubai Silk Road strategy. The passport will help boost the role of the Dubai Silk Road and enhance demand for Dubai’s products, services and integrated transportation systems. The unique initiative also further raises the growing role played by Dubai Customs in regional and international trade.

Commenting on the initiative, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said that the implementation of the Dubai Silk Road strategy marks the beginning of a new phase of economic growth that will further boost Dubai’s position as a global economic and business hub, powered by its exceptional connectivity and logistics services.

His Highness said the Dubai Silk Road strategy paves the way for a major growth leap that will expand the UAE’s role in the global economy based on the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. He emphasised the importance of the logistics sector as a key driver of economic diversification as highlighted by the 50-Year Charter.

Sheikh Hamdan added: “Through this strategy, we will offer many privileges and services that will help connect international markets by mobilising Dubai’s resources and infrastructure. The investments we made in Dubai’s ports, airports and free zones made the city a global logistics hub and a bridge between the east and west. The Dubai Silk Road strategy responds to the changes in international trade by offering new state-of-the-art logistics services using the latest smart applications.”
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and CEO and Chairman of the Emirates Group, said: “Dubai’s sophisticated logistics services will further enhance its value offering for investors and businesses by saving time and effort and reducing their operational costs. This is a powerful tool that will eventually lead to increased revenues. We are keen to offer investors and businesses new advantages in conducting global trade.”

Sheikh Ahmed added: “Our target is to offer maximum flexibility and efficiency for Dubai’s business community by unifying the procedures of logistics service providers. These efforts are aimed at improving quality of service and attracting a higher share of international trade at a time when Dubai is preparing to host Dubai Expo 2020.”

The World Logistics Passport offers a set of unique operational and financial advantages for businesses and shipping companies by connecting government entities, including Dubai Customs and Dubai Trade, with logistics service providers like DP World and Dnata, and facilitating commercial transactions among concerned bodies in Dubai.