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UAE Launches Digital eATA Carnet System for Paperless Customs Clearance

The UAE has commenced the official rollout of the digital eATA Carnet system, becoming the first country outside Europe to implement the paperless platform. Developed jointly by Dubai Chambers, ICP, and Dubai Customs, the system replaces paper carnets with electronic declarations and QR codes for temporary duty-free admission of goods. Between 2011 and late 2025, the UAE processed 63,591 carnets valued at AED 54.4 billion.

Published Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)
Issuing authority
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), Dubai Chambers, Dubai Customs
Jurisdiction
United Arab Emirates
Publication date
November 9, 2026
Stage
Final rule
Official document
eATA Carnet system
Official source
www.wam.ae
Illustration: Editorial photograph of cargo freight handling and electronic inspection at a modern Dubai customs terminal, with shipping containers an
Illustration

The UAE has begun the official rollout of the digital eATA Carnet system, making it the first country outside Europe to adopt the paperless customs clearance platform, according to the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

The platform was deployed through a collaboration among Dubai Chambers, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), and Dubai Customs. It replaces traditional paper carnets with electronic declarations, QR codes, and digital records to facilitate temporary duty-free admission for commercial samples, professional gear, and exhibition goods.

Official figures show that between 2011 and late 2025, the UAE handled 63,591 carnets covering goods with a combined value of AED 54.4 billion.

In 2025 alone, Dubai Chamber of Commerce processed 5,960 carnets valued at AED 5.6 billion, marking a 30 percent year-on-year increase in total value.

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