Dubai eyes world hub status with World Logistics Passport launch

October 14, 2019: Dubai Customs on October 13 introduced the World Logistics Passport as the first phase of Dubai Silk Road strategy to become the logistics hub for the world.

The passport will offer operational and financial privileges to businesses and shipping companies by connecting with government offices such as Dubai Customs and Dubai Trade and logistics providers like DP World and Dnata, thus linking them with international markets by mobilising Dubai’s resources and infrastructure. The initiative also aims to enhance demand for Dubai’s products, services and integrated transportation systems and increase the role played by Dubai Customs in regional and international trade.

Commenting on the initiative, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, crown prince of Dubai and chairman of the Dubai Executive Council 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.

Named after the ancient trade route that connected the East and the West, Dubai Silk Road is a strategic initiative to improve Dubai’s role in global trade by boosting air and sea freight. Commenced in March 2019, the strategy is a part of 50-year charter announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, vice president and ruler of Dubai in January.

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 the quality of service and attracting a higher share of international trade at a time when Dubai is preparing to host Dubai Expo 2020.”