Largest air cargo operation of the year strengthens border protection and supports economic security
Dubai Customs seizes over 35 tons of counterfeit and smuggled goods
In an extensive inspection campaign lasting more than three months, Dubai Customs has seized over 35 tons of counterfeit, smuggled, and non-compliant goods across all air cargo centers in the Emirate of Dubai.
Described as the largest operation of its kind since the start of 2025, the campaign is part of Dubai Customs' continuous efforts to safeguard the nation's borders, combat all forms of smuggling and commercial fraud, and protect the health, safety, and economic interests of the community.
Millions of illegal goods intercepted
The campaign resulted in the confiscation of:
- 12 million smuggled cigarettes
- 6.7 million counterfeit cigarettes
- 37,110 non-compliant cosmetic products
- 3,632 unauthorized electronic parts
- 10,520 counterfeit items of global brands
Advanced technology and the expertise of the inspectors
His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs, praised the efforts of the inspection teams and emphasized the Department's readiness to combat trade violations.
“We have advanced systems and technologies to intercept and target suspicious shipments, a highly skilled inspection team, and a customs intelligence department with extensive expertise in data analysis and shipment monitoring. Our cutting-edge scanning and inspection devices send a clear message to anyone attempting to manipulate the trade system: Our strategy focuses on becoming a global leader in secure customs operations while strengthening the region's role as a hub for legitimate trade, enhancing national security, protecting trademark owners, driving the national economy, and supporting Dubai's vision and economic agenda."
Dr. Busenad added that with the rapid pace of global trade and growing reliance on air cargo, customs authorities worldwide face the dual challenge of facilitating legitimate trade while preventing illegal activities such as the smuggling of counterfeit goods.
Vigilance at air cargo centers
Sultan Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of Air Cargo Centers Management, highlighted the role of inspectors in ensuring Dubai's supply chains remain both secure and efficient.
“We thoroughly check all parcels using advanced scanning systems. When suspicion arises, items undergo detailed manual inspection. At the same time, we expedite customs clearance to meet the demands of air cargo operations, ensuring goods reach the market on time. Our inspectors are experts in reading and analyzing X-ray images and data from inspection devices, and we continuously develop their skills through specialized training courses. These ongoing inspection campaigns are key to combating smuggling and counterfeit goods, strengthening investor confidence, and protecting global brand rights."
Protecting intellectual property and the environment
Yousef Ozair Mubarak, Director of the IPR Department, emphasized the importance of cooperation with strategic partners and trademark owners in preventing counterfeit goods from entering Dubai.
“We work closely with brand representatives, who regularly conduct workshops for customs inspectors to teach the latest detection methods. No matter how sophisticated counterfeit techniques become, our teams are trained to spot them. In line with our commitment to community safety and environmental protection, we recycle seized counterfeit goods in partnership with trademark owners. This approach transforms them into reusable materials, avoiding the harmful environmental impact of traditional destruction methods."