Dubai Customs gears up to accommodate increase in arrivals through DIA

Dubai, Aug 1, 2013 (WAM) - Dubai Customs is well prepared to facilitate the procedures of arrivals to the country through Dubai International Airport (DIA) through to the middle of September. This is expected to be the peak season at the airport, as it is the time of three important occasions; the return of Umrah performers, both UAE nationals and residents, during the last ten days of the Holy Month of Ramadan, the "Eid in Dubai" events and the return of expatriates and their families after spending the summer vacation in their home countries. A set of measures have been taken by Dubai Customs to facilitate the passage of arrivals through the three terminals with the object of alleviating any obstacles they might encounter. Such measures include coordination with the operating airlines over any potential increase in the inflow of passengers, scheduling the annual leaves of customs staff operating at the airport within acceptable limits, conducting workshops for inspectors focusing on good reception of passengers in a way that lives up to the warm hospitality the UAE, increasing the amount of scanning equipment to avoid congestion resulting from increased flight arrivals and providing assistance and help to needy passengers. Ali Al Maqhawi, Director of Airport Operations at Dubai Customs, said that Dubai Customs is committed to giving a warm welcome to passengers and completing their entry procedures in the least possible time. For these goals, the maximum number of inspection devices and the personnel needed to operate them will be provided in an effort to accommodate the expected increase in the number of flights, particularly with regard to the expectations of receiving a large number of passengers to spend Eid al-Fitr vacation and enjoy the events arranged within "Eid in Dubai" festivities. He added that the department has intensified the training aspect for customs staff operating at the airport terminals in respect of security, social and linguistic skills in order to raise competency and capability. Preparations also include conducting awareness courses for new inspectors and educating them about their vital role in keeping the country and society safe as well as welcoming travellers with a smile. Employees from the Airport Operations Department will distribute brochures to visitors and arrivals to Dubai Airport containing full information about the authorised entry of baggage and materials, items to be declared to customs, the requirements for bringing in medicines and other items that require special permits and permissions. Al Maqhawi added, "Dubai Customs services to passengers focus on avoiding wasting passengers' time and easing their entry procedures into the country". He indicated that Dubai Customs is working on educating travellers to and from the country of customs procedures at the airport by calling upon all travellers to visit the Department's website, www.dubaicustoms.gov.ae and check the "Travellers Guide" online to be better acquainted with airport customs measures, including the travel procedures, luggage allowances, list of permitted items, list of items to be declared upon arrival or departure, deposit refunds and other measures. – Emirates News Agency, WAM