9 January 2005

DUBAI - The concept of customs business has changed with its role no longer limited to collecting duties and protecting land, sea and air terminals against smuggling operations but extended to streamlining and attracting foreign investments, said Ahmed Butti Ahmed, Director General, Dubai Customs.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Dubai International Customs Center, which was held in the presence of Michele Parnier, Secretary General of World Customs Organisation, Dr Hanif Hassan, Director of Zayed University as well as a large number of officials, economists and academics, Butti said: "To this end, it is imperative to be in line with these developments through a scientific and systematic approach helpful to develop our workforce a key element for any reform and modernisation process. Hence, the idea came into existence for setting up Dubai International Customs Center in collaboration with Zayed University for its vast academic experience - and in consultation with the World Customs Organisation, which has a rich field experience in this domain."

Butti said the center, which was recently set up in association with Zayed University, will be  open for other customs departments and authorities in the UAE, Gulf Cooperation Council countries and other neighbouring countries to benefit from its educational programmes and curricula related to professional training and development, as well as consultative researches and services associated with customs work.

Parnier hailed the rapid development of the UAE in general and Dubai in particular. He said the progress was possible due to the country's excellent infrastructure.

He sid the World Customs Organisation includes 162 countries bound by a set of common objectives. "What made Dubai Customs distinguished is its ability and flexibility to deal with rapid developments professionally."

Dr. Hanif Hassan indicated that cooperation with Dubai Customs is a unique model for communication between the university and business organisations within the UAE. Such cooperation enhances customs services in the UAE and the Gulf region. Zayed University offers its latest services by developing the skills of Dubai Customs' human resources and their performances, as well as providing the best technological programs and consultations. The University also extends its relations with different public and private sectors through its international expertise, faculty members, and specialized centers. Such prominent and elite expertise offer their services and innovative solutions inside the UAE and the gulf region. This proves the university's mission and vision of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Education and President of Zayed University.

Dr. Hanif added that both Zayed University and Dubai Ports Customs & Free Zone Corporation are one of the leading institutes and organisations in the United Arab Emirates as they seek to enhance their performances and develop the skills of their staff in different departments by offering the latest programs and ideas, and providing services which conform to the latest international practices.

Zayed University is very proud of the confidence of such organisations in its academic and social role and keen on providing services to the Customs as set in the agreement that has been signed in this regard.

BY A STAFF REPORTER

© Khaleej Times 2005