Dubai Customs has announced a significant regulatory adjustment under Customs Notice No. 05/2026, with immediate effective implementation. The notice amends Policy No. 35/2011 on Goods in Transit, extending the maximum transit period from 30 days to 90 days. This change applies exclusively to Transit Customs Declarations and is intended to provide greater flexibility for traders and logistics operators facing ongoing global supply chain challenges.
The extension reflects Dubai Customs’ commitment to facilitating trade continuity amid geopolitical tensions, port congestion, and fluctuating freight availability. By allowing a longer transit window, the authority aims to reduce compliance risks associated with delays, minimize penalties for late cargo movements, and support businesses in maintaining contractual obligations.
For compliance professionals, the key implications are:
- Documentation Adjustments: Transit declarations must now reflect the revised 90-day period.
- Operational Planning: Logistics teams gain additional flexibility in routing and scheduling, but must ensure accurate reporting to avoid discrepancies.
- Risk Management: While the extension reduces immediate exposure to fines, companies must remain vigilant about cargo tracking, bonded warehouse rules, and re-export deadlines.
- Strategic Positioning: The measure reinforces Dubai’s attractiveness as a regional transshipment hub, offering resilience in times of global disruption.
In conclusion, Customs Notice No. 05/2026 provides welcome relief to traders navigating uncertain supply chains. Compliance teams should update internal controls, monitor transit timelines closely, and communicate the regulatory change across operations to ensure seamless adherence.
Official legal source from Dubai Customs (05/2026):
https://www.dubaicustoms.gov.ae/en/PoliciesAndNotices/Notices/CN5_2026.pdf