Dubai Customs Strengthens Leadership Development with Completion of Phase Two of “Masar 33”

Dubai Customs has made significant strides in enhancing its leadership capabilities through the “Masar 33” initiative, a strategic program aimed at developing specialized national competencies. This initiative is designed to prepare a new generation of leaders and customs professionals who can adapt to the rapidly evolving trade and customs landscape. The program aligns with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, reinforcing the Emirate’s position as a global hub for trade and logistics services.

Focus on Qualitative Outcomes

“Masar 33” emphasizes the development of operationally ready professionals who can perform their duties independently and efficiently. The initiative also aims to cultivate a second tier of qualified leaders to ensure business continuity and institutional resilience. Emerging talent is identified and nurtured through an advanced leadership program that anticipates future sector needs. The program offers a continuous learning journey that combines practical training with on-the-job experiences, enabling participants to acquire hands-on skills aligned with global trends and policies.

The impact of “Masar 33” is amplified by a strategic network of partners, including leading academic and professional institutions such as Dubai Logistics Academy and Nafis, as well as public and private sector collaborators. This collaboration provides an integrated educational experience grounded in global best practices. Rather than a conventional training initiative, “Masar 33” represents a long-term investment in human capital, aimed at developing future customs leaders and enhancing Dubai Customs’ readiness to adapt to global changes.

Between 2023 and 2025, the initiative successfully cultivated a growing base of qualified customs leaders through specialized leadership and academic programs. A total of 102 customs leaders were qualified, alongside 31 graduates from bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in international trade, customs, and logistics. Currently, around 30 participants are completing their studies, reflecting Dubai Customs’ commitment to investing in national talent and developing the next generation of leaders.

Specialized Training Initiatives

In January 2026, Dubai Customs launched a specialized training program focused on X-ray equipment to enhance customs inspection efficiency. This initiative aims to align national skills with international standards and is part of a broader commitment to professional development in the logistics sector. In collaboration with Nafis, a 32-day program was delivered that awards participants a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certificate accredited by the Institute of Professional Development in the United Kingdom, specializing in customs and commercial operations. Of the 14 participants trained from the private sector, 9 secured positions at specialized logistics companies in 2025.

Launch of the “Executive Leadership” Program

As part of its ongoing leadership development efforts, Dubai Customs has introduced Phase Two of “Masar 33,” known as the “Executive Leadership” program. This phase targets the preparation and empowerment of second- and third-tier executive leaders, focusing on advanced methodologies in management, innovation, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills. This initiative directly supports Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda.

To prepare for this phase, Dubai Customs organized a “Leadership Council” session, bringing together executive directors and managers for an interactive dialogue. This session aimed to exchange leadership visions and experiences, foster a culture of continuous learning, and prepare participants for an upcoming training component in Singapore.

The session included discussions on adaptive leadership in a changing world, allowing participants to gain insights into future leadership requirements and enhancing their capacity to lead teams amid rapid changes and evolving challenges.

Academic and Training Visit to Singapore

Participants will conclude this phase with an academic and training visit to the Republic of Singapore, hosted by the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School. This institution is recognized as one of the world’s leading academic centers in management, business, and economics.

The program’s agenda will cover strategic topics that shape the future of global trade and customs, including geopolitical developments, smart border management, advanced logistics services, digital transformation, and AI applications. These focus areas reflect Dubai Customs’ vision of equipping leaders with the strategic thinking necessary to anticipate global changes, thereby reinforcing its commitment to sustaining national competencies through exposure to global best practices.

“Masar 33” is not merely a training program; it is an integrated strategic system designed to manage and sustain leadership talent. This initiative empowers national competencies to transition from functional excellence to institutional impact, ensuring the continuity of knowledge and expertise while bolstering Dubai Customs’ readiness for future challenges.

His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Busenad, Director General of Dubai Customs, emphasized that “Masar 33” is one of the organization’s most significant strategic investments in human capital. He stated that the initiative embodies a forward-looking vision aimed at preparing national leaders equipped with the strategic thinking necessary to navigate the rapid transformations in the customs and trade sectors.

Dr. Busenad noted that the program is designed to build leaders capable of empowering others and achieving lasting results. He highlighted the importance of preparing future leaders, stating that organizations are measured not just by current achievements but by their ability to cultivate those who will lead their success in the future.

He concluded by reaffirming the commitment to building an integrated system for discovering and empowering competencies, preparing them for future leadership roles. This approach reflects the belief that true investment lies in human capital, capable of transforming vision into impact and challenges into opportunities.

Source: www.zawya.com

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Published on 2026-06-21 17:58:00 • By the Editorial Desk