Abu dhabi: His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, attended the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Technology Conference and Exhibition 2026, hosted by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) at ADNEC. During his visit, Sheikh Mansour explored the ICP pavilion, where smart solutions to enhance customs security and operational efficiency were showcased.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Mansour was briefed on "Robot Maryam," an AI-powered smart customs inspector launched during the conference. The robot uses artificial intelligence to assist in inspection processes, respond to traveller inquiries regarding customs procedures, and facilitate cash disclosure declarations. He also reviewed various products and technologies presented by participating companies and institutions aimed at improving customs operations.
Sheikh Mansour highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and AI to boost efficiency at the UAE's ports and strengthen the nation's position as a global trade and logistics hub. He commended the ICP's efforts in developing a comprehensive customs system to meet future challenges, noting the significance of such international events in fostering global partnerships between customs administrations.
Sheikh Mansour was joined by Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, ICP Director-General; Ahmed Abdullah bin Lahej Al Falasi, Acting Director General of Customs and Port Security at the ICP, and other senior officials. The conference, themed "Customs Agility in a Complex World: Securing and Facilitating Trade through Innovation," attracted over 2,000 delegates, including representatives from WCO member states, senior customs officials, technology providers, business leaders, international organisations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders.
Discussions at the event focused on the future of border management, data analytics, and the role of innovation in streamlining cross-border trade within an increasingly complex global environment.