Dubai Customs And University Of Dubai Forge Partnership With KLU Through Tripartite MoU

Dubai Customs and the University of Dubai have entered into a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kühne and Nagel University (KLU) in Hamburg, Germany. The agreement was formalised at KLU's campus in Hamburg, signed by Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director-General of Dubai Customs; Professor Washika Haak-Saheem, Dean of the Dubai Business School; and Professor Andreas Kaplan, President of KLU.

The MoU aims to enhance collaboration in education, training, and scientific research. It focuses on developing specialised professional programmes and providing practical training for students from the Dubai Logistics Academy and those under Dubai Customs’ scholarship programme. This initiative is in partnership with the University of Dubai.

The agreement outlines joint initiatives targeting logistics services, supply chain management, and innovation through artificial intelligence (AI) within customs operations. These efforts align with Dubai's strategic direction to integrate AI into public sector functions and invest in national talent development.

Coinciding with the MoU signing, several scholarship students began an intensive training programme at KLU. This programme includes academic learning, supervised practical experience, and field visits to leading German companies and logistics facilities at the Port of Hamburg—one of Europe’s major logistics hubs.

The training exposes students to advanced systems powered by AI and digital technologies. It showcases practical applications that optimise operational efficiency, automate procedures, and improve service quality while aligning with sustainability goals.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, highlighted that this MoU reflects Dubai’s commitment to fostering a knowledge- and innovation-based economy under His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's leadership. He stated that vocational training is an investment in both individuals and Dubai’s long-term economic sustainability.

Strategic Vision for Talent Development

Dr. Abdulla Busenad emphasised that the MoU is part of a strategy to modernise training ecosystems in line with labour market needs. By enhancing academic programmes and practical training quality, it aims to reinforce Dubai’s position as a top global logistics hub.

He added that collaborating with globally recognised institutions like KLU elevates programme outcomes, increases graduate employability, and supports the 'We the UAE 2031' vision by building a skilled national workforce.

Commitment to Excellence

Dr. Issa Al Bastaki, President of Dubai University, remarked that this collaboration is crucial for delivering world-class academic programmes responsive to future labour market demands. It supports their commitment to fostering innovation among students.

Professor Andreas Kaplan expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Dubai Customs and the University of Dubai's Business School. He noted that this MoU marks the beginning of a promising partnership with shared opportunities for growth and success ahead.

With inputs from WAM