Abu Dhabi Customs and Khalifa University Enterprises forge innovation partnership
A landmark memorandum of understanding establishes collaborative framework for advancing customs operations through cutting-edge research, artificial intelligence and technology development.
Abu Dhabi Customs and Khalifa University Enterprises have entered into a strategic partnership designed to harness innovation and technological advancement in service of the emirate’s customs operations and broader economic objectives.
The Memorandum of Understanding, signed by Obaid Musallem AlAmeri, Acting Director-General of Abu Dhabi Customs, and Amal Nasser Al Jabri, Chief Executive Officer of Khalifa University Enterprises, establishes a comprehensive framework for collaboration across research, development and artificial intelligence applications. The agreement was formalised during the Al Ain Future Business Forum in September 2026.
The partnership endeavours to identify technology-enabled solutions that enhance operational efficiency whilst leveraging data analysis to uncover industrial and investment opportunities. Through coordinated efforts, both institutions aim to reinforce the competitiveness of Abu Dhabi’s economy whilst advancing the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031.
Collaborative initiatives encompass several strategic domains. The parties will exchange relevant data and expertise to support advanced analytics, jointly undertake research and development projects, and utilise Khalifa University’s sophisticated laboratory capabilities to develop and evaluate prototypes addressing operational and industrial requirements.
Notably, the agreement provides for developing artificial intelligence applications and algorithms designed to optimise operational and compliance processes whilst strengthening risk management capabilities. The institutions will jointly organise innovation initiatives harnessing data to explore technology-driven solutions aligned with economic and operational priorities.
A particularly ambitious element involves exploring the establishment of a Customs Innovation and Foresight Lab and developing digital twin models for customs ports. Such facilities would enable comprehensive performance analysis, scenario testing and assessment of opportunities to enhance procedural efficiency. Similarly, the partnership contemplates establishing a trade data analytics centre utilising artificial intelligence technologies to support decision-making and advance customs risk management.
The collaboration extends to talent development and applied research. Both parties will establish testing environments for emerging technologies and support postgraduate research programmes addressing customs-related challenges. Training and practical programmes designed to develop national talent represent an integral component, grounded in real-world operational challenges and scenarios.
Additional areas of cooperation include developing predictive tools based on advanced analytics to identify patterns associated with customs violations and assess opportunities for enhanced analytical processes. The partnership also explores sustainability initiatives and circular economy approaches, incorporating technology-enabled solutions supporting environmental compliance across supply chains.
Recognising the commercial potential of collaborative research, the agreement contemplates technology transfer and commercialisation of developed solutions, subject to technical validation and applicable approvals, alongside intellectual property registration and protection frameworks.
Source: WAM