Dubai Chamber issues 5,357 ATA Carnets for AED 4.3B goods in 2024

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers under the Dubai Chambers group, has announced that it issued and processed 5,357 ATA Carnets in 2024. These carnets covered goods worth AED 4.3 billion. The figures highlight the steady growth of Dubai’s exhibitions, conferences, and events sector, which heavily relies on ATA Carnets.

The ATA Carnet is a document that makes it easier for companies and exhibitors to temporarily bring goods into Dubai without paying customs duties or taxes. It allows goods to stay in the country for up to one year, making it simpler for businesses to participate in international trade shows and events. This system helps event organizers and exhibitors avoid extra costs and ensures the smooth flow of goods across borders.

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Boosting Dubai’s Events Sector
Khalid AlJarwan, Vice President of Commercial and Corporate Services at Dubai Chambers, emphasized the importance of the ATA Carnet system. He said, “The ATA Carnet system is designed to simplify customs procedures for exhibition-related goods. This brings many benefits to the exhibitions and conferences sector and strengthens Dubai’s reputation as a global events hub.”

AlJarwan added that the system makes it easier for exhibitors to bring in items without worrying about complex customs processes. This encourages more international businesses to participate in Dubai’s events, helping the city remain a top destination for global exhibitions.

Collaboration for Smooth Operations
The success of the ATA Carnet system is due to the strong partnership between the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai Customs, the Federal Customs Authority, and other UAE chambers of commerce. Their collaboration ensures that the process runs smoothly and efficiently, making Dubai more attractive for international trade events.

What is the ATA Carnet System?
The ATA Carnet is often referred to as a “passport for goods.” It allows companies to temporarily take products across international borders without paying customs duties. The carnet is valid for one year and covers a wide range of items, including:

• Commercial samples

• Professional equipment (such as tools and machinery)

• Audiovisual gear and computers

• Musical instruments and artwork

• Medical appliances and industrial machinery

• Racehorses, vehicles, and even prehistoric relics

However, the system does not cover items that are perishable, consumable, or meant for processing or repair.

An International Standard
The ATA Carnet system was established under the Istanbul Convention in 1990, with guidance from the World Customs Organization (WCO). It allows business travelers, exhibitors, and marketing professionals to complete customs procedures in advance at a fixed cost. With a single carnet, they can visit multiple countries without needing new paperwork each time.

This makes border crossings faster and reduces the risk of unexpected costs or delays. It also offers financial benefits by exempting exporters from paying VAT and customs duties. Carnet holders do not need to provide security deposits at customs, making the process simpler and more cost-effective.

The increasing use of ATA Carnets in Dubai reflects the city’s growing status as a global business and event hub. With easier customs procedures, Dubai continues to attract major exhibitions, conferences, and trade shows, boosting its position on the international stage.