UAE Launches Digital eATA Carnet System for Temporary Duty-Free Imports

The UAE has commenced the official rollout of the digital eATA Carnet system, becoming the first country outside Europe to adopt the platform. Developed jointly by Dubai Chambers, Dubai Customs, and the ICP, the system replaces paper carnets with electronic declarations and QR codes. Between 2011 and 2025, the UAE processed over 63,500 carnets valued at AED 54.4 billion.

Published November 9, 2026 Source: PR Newswire

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Issuing authority: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security; Dubai Customs; Dubai Chambers
Jurisdiction: United Arab Emirates
Publication date: November 9, 2026
Effective date: November 9, 2026
Stage: Final rule
Official source: www.prnewswire.com

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The UAE officially commenced the rollout of the digital eATA Carnet system on November 9, 2026, marking the first time the digital solution has been implemented outside Europe. The initiative was developed jointly by Dubai Chambers, Dubai Customs, and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

The platform digitizes the process of temporary duty-free admissions, replacing traditional paper carnets with electronic declarations, QR codes, and digital records. The digital system is designed to expedite border processing for commercial samples, professional equipment, and exhibition cargo entering the country.

According to the announcement, Dubai Chambers is one of only 13 chambers globally among the International Chamber of Commerce's 1,200 member chambers to deploy the digital platform.

Historical customs data highlights that between 2011 and year-end 2025, the UAE handled 63,591 ATA carnets covering goods with an aggregate value of AED 54.4 billion. In 2025 alone, the country processed 5,960 carnets representing AED 5.6 billion in temporary imports.