DUBAI, UAE — 27 October 2020 — Dubai Customs received 516 intelligence calls and reports through its Rafed reporting service between January and September 2020. The figures, announced by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), highlighted the contribution of public reporting to customs intelligence activities. Shuaib Al Suwaidi, who was Director of the Customs Intelligence Department at Dubai Customs, emphasised the importance of confidential communication in identifying illegal trade practices and protecting the UAE's economic and security interests.

According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) report on Dubai Customs' Rafed service, the service recorded increasing public participation during the first three quarters of 2020. The announcement provided an overview of the service's activity and highlighted the importance of cooperation between customs authorities and the wider community.

Dubai Customs records 516 Rafed reports in three quarters

The number of reports received through Rafed increased during each quarter of the reported period. Dubai Customs recorded 95 reports in the first quarter, followed by 175 in the second quarter and 246 in the third quarter.

The quarterly figures were:

Q1 202095
Q2 2020175
Q3 2020246
Total516

The third quarter accounted for the largest share of submissions during the nine-month period. These figures demonstrate the growing use of the reporting channel during the period covered by the announcement.

Note: The WAM release does not specify how many of the 516 reports resulted in enforcement action, what factors contributed to the increase in the third quarter, or the date on which the World Customs Organization committee acknowledged the service. These details were not included in the published announcement.

Shuaib Al Suwaidi explains the importance of customs intelligence

Shuaib Al Suwaidi, then Director of the Customs Intelligence Department at Dubai Customs, highlighted how Rafed connected the public with customs authorities. The service provided a way for employees, customers and other individuals to communicate information about customs violations and unlawful trading activities.

His comments focused on two important aspects: protecting the confidentiality of submitted information and encouraging people to take an active role in identifying activities that could harm the national economy or threaten public security.

Al Suwaidi explained the wider importance of the initiative, stating:

This service is gaining further weight and importance and this took us a step further to enlighten others about the hazards of illegitimate trade and to encourage people to report any acts that can threaten the security of the nation.
Shuaib Al Suwaidi, then Director of the Customs Intelligence Department, Dubai Customs, as reported by WAM on 27 October 2020

He also highlighted the importance of maintaining a secure environment that supports investment and protects the country from the consequences of illegitimate trade.

How Rafed supports customs violation reporting

Launched in 2015 under the slogan "Report It and Stay Safe," Rafed was established as a confidential channel for communicating information about customs-related violations.

The service is open to UAE citizens and residents as well as individuals living outside the country. Its purpose is to encourage people to share relevant information about activities that could affect national safety and security.

The announcement also noted that the Customs Compliance Committee at the World Customs Organization had acknowledged the service's contribution to identifying illegal practices.

Since its introduction, reports submitted through Rafed have contributed to stopping attempts to smuggle different categories of restricted and prohibited goods. This illustrates the role of public information in supporting customs authorities' efforts to identify suspicious activities.

What the Rafed announcement means for importers, exporters and logistics businesses

The announcement is particularly relevant to businesses involved in international trade, including importers, exporters, freight forwarders and logistics operators.

Customs violations and the movement of restricted or prohibited goods can create concerns for businesses operating across international supply chains. The Rafed initiative highlights the importance of awareness, responsible reporting and communication with customs authorities.

For businesses, the announcement offers several practical considerations:

  • Maintain proper records: Keep relevant shipping, import and export documentation organised and accessible.
  • Understand restricted goods: Ensure employees involved in trade operations are aware of restrictions relating to goods being transported or imported.
  • Promote internal awareness: Encourage staff to recognise and report suspected customs violations through appropriate channels.
  • Use confidential reporting channels: Where relevant, individuals can use the Rafed service to communicate information about suspected customs violations.

These are practical considerations arising from the purpose of the reporting initiative, rather than additional requirements stated in the 2020 announcement.

The importance of community participation in protecting trade

The 516 reports received during the first nine months of 2020 demonstrate the scale of community participation recorded through Rafed during that period. The initiative also reflects the importance of communication between individuals and government authorities in addressing activities involving illicit trade.

Shuaib Al Suwaidi's remarks highlighted how confidential reporting could encourage greater public involvement while supporting efforts to protect the UAE's economic environment and national security.

The announcement remains a historical example of Dubai Customs' approach to community-based intelligence and the role of reporting channels in identifying customs-related concerns.

Businesses involved in importing, exporting and international trade may need to understand their legal responsibilities and address issues arising from commercial and customs-related activities.

Shuaib Alsuwaidi Advocates & Legal Consultants provides legal services in the UAE. Businesses seeking assistance with relevant commercial legal matters can explore the firm's Corporate & Commercial legal services or contact the firm for further information.

This article is provided for general informational purposes and is based on a historical news announcement published in October 2020. It does not constitute legal advice or represent current customs regulations. Businesses should seek appropriate professional advice regarding their specific legal and regulatory obligations.