Abu Dhabi:The General Administration of Abu Dhabi Customs has been awarded the Digitally Distinguished Government Entity category at the seventh edition of the GCC Digital Government Award 2026, hosted in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This accolade was given in recognition of its Invisible Customs initiative and achievements in digital transformation, innovation, and the development of smart customs services.
According to Wam, Abu Dhabi Customs was the only government entity from the UAE delegation to receive the Winner distinction at this year's awards. The recognition not only highlights its progress in digital excellence but also its success in developing innovative operating models that integrate advanced technologies with digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency, service quality, and customer experience.
Obaid Musallem Al Ameri, Acting Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, emphasized that this regional achievement reflects the UAE's leadership's forward-looking vision and the success of Abu Dhabi's efforts to accelerate digital transformation and embrace innovation and artificial intelligence. These efforts contribute to building an integrated, proactive government ecosystem that bolsters Abu Dhabi's global competitiveness and supports sustainable economic growth.
The Invisible Customs initiative is a flagship strategic project by Abu Dhabi Customs, aimed at revolutionizing customs operations. By introducing a smart, proactive operating model that incorporates digital systems, data, and customs procedures, the initiative seeks to provide faster, more flexible, and efficient services, reducing manual intervention and conventional administrative procedures, thereby enhancing customer experience while maintaining high standards of customs control, compliance, and security.
The award further adds to Abu Dhabi Customs' record of regional and international recognition for its innovation, digital transformation, and institutional excellence. It underscores its ongoing commitment to developing a smart, sustainable customs ecosystem and strengthening collaboration with both public and private sector partners to improve supply chain efficiency and economic competitiveness. These efforts align with Abu Dhabi Customs' ambition to be a World-Class Customs Authority and reinforce Abu Dhabi's status as a leading global trade hub.