Mansour Bin Zayed Visits WCO Technology Conference And Exhibition 2026
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Technology Conference and Exhibition 2026 at ADNEC, reviewing how new customs technologies support trade. The event, hosted by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), highlighted digital systems that aim to secure UAE borders and keep goods moving efficiently through the country’s ports.
During the visit, H.H. Sheikh Mansour inspected several smart inspection tools, including "Robot Maryam", an AI-based customs inspector launched at the conference. The system uses artificial intelligence to help with inspection tasks and answer traveller questions on customs procedures. It also supports passengers with cash disclosure declarations, which are required when crossing borders with large sums.
The conference is held under the theme, "Customs Agility in a Complex World: Securing and Facilitating Trade through Innovation," and has attracted over 2,000 delegates. Attendees include representatives from WCO member states, senior customs leaders, technology companies, business executives, international organisations, universities and other stakeholders interested in customs modernisation and trade facilitation.
Conference sessions focus on how customs authorities can manage borders in a complex environment while supporting legitimate trade. Discussions cover advanced data analytics, digital inspection methods and the role of innovation in simplifying cross-border procedures. Speakers also look at how customs technology can help manage risk, improve compliance and maintain security as global supply chains grow more interconnected.
H.H. Sheikh Mansour’s tour included the ICP pavilion, where teams presented integrated digital platforms for customs. These systems aim to speed clearance times and improve targeting of high-risk shipments. Sheikh Mansour also viewed technologies from other companies and institutions taking part in the exhibition, many of which focus on supporting smoother customs operations and better coordination between ports and borders.
Sheikh Mansour stressed that using technology and artificial intelligence has become essential for faster procedures at UAE ports. He stated that smarter systems can raise operational efficiency and support the UAE’s position as a global trade and logistics hub. Sheikh Mansour highlighted the need for customs agencies to keep improving tools that balance security requirements with trade facilitation goals.
Sheikh Mansour praised the ICP’s work on building an integrated customs system prepared for future challenges. He noted that large-scale international meetings such as this conference help create stronger cooperation between customs administrations worldwide. Such cooperation can encourage unified standards, shared intelligence and joint efforts to protect supply chains while keeping goods flowing.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, ICP Director-General, accompanied Sheikh Mansour during the visit, along with Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahej Al Falasi, Acting Director General of Customs and Port Security at the ICP. Senior officials also joined the delegation, reflecting the strategic importance that UAE authorities place on customs innovation, technology partnerships and continued engagement with the World Customs Organisation.
With inputs from WAM
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