Dubai Customs recorded a cashless payment transaction rate of 99.3% in the first half of 2026, as the emirate continues to expand digital government services under its Dubai Cashless Strategy.
The rate compares with 99.4% in 2025 and 99.2% in 2024, reflecting the continued use of electronic payment systems across customs services.
The figures highlight Dubai Customs' efforts to integrate digital payments with customs procedures, simplify transactions, and improve the customer experience. The initiative also supports Dubai's broader push to strengthen its position as a global trade and business hub.
Dubai Customs completed 23 million customs operations in the first half of 2026, with a 99.6% adoption rate of digital channels. The customer happiness index for the digital service channel was 98% during the same period.
Dubai Customs conducted 23 million transactions unrelated to cashless payment operations. These figures are part of Dubai's initiative to integrate government services with digital payment systems.
The Dubai Department of Finance confirmed on October 9 that the Dubai Cashless Strategy has met its main objectives.
Launched in October 2024 by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the UAE Minister of Defense, the Dubai Cashless Strategy aims to boost cashless payments in Dubai.
Dubai's cashless transactions index reached 90.1%, exceeding the 2026 target. The government sector's digital enablement index reached 100%.
The Department of Finance also recognized Dubai Customs' contribution to the strategy through its digital transformation initiatives and efforts to encourage electronic payments.
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According to Dr Abdulla Busanad, Director-General of Dubai Customs, integrating government services and digital payments reflects the government’s ambition to use technology to foster a productive and sustainable economy.
He said the government plans to use customs service efficiency as a competitive advantage to support business development.
The Dubai Customs Strategy 2026-2030 aims to facilitate trusted trade and support the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) by enhancing customer experience and helping businesses expand into global markets.
The Mirsal 2 system remains critical for integrating customs processes, electronic services, payments, and risk management. This might help facilitate transactions while maintaining regulatory compliance.