Latest news with #CustomsandPortsSecurity
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Khaleej Times
UAE authority bust drug smuggling attempt, seize marijuana at Zayed International Airport
Authorities in the UAE thwarted an attempt to smuggle 5kg of marijuana at Zayed International Airport, the Federal Authority for Identity, Nationality, Customs and Ports Security announced on Wednesday. The General Administration of Ports seized the narcotic substances, which were found professionally hidden inside the luggage of an inbound traveller. According to official sources, the bust took place after Customs inspection teams grew suspicious of the traveller's baggage as it passed through the airport's advanced screening systems. The scanning equipment indicated the presence of abnormal materials concealed within the luggage, prompting a meticulous manual search. 'This necessitated the intervention of manual inspection teams to conduct an accurate examination that resulted in the finding of narcotic substances,' the authority stated. The operation was carried out in cooperation with the specialized K9 customs dog teams from the Customs and Security Support Management, which are trained in drug detection. Security, safety of community The ICP reiterated its unwavering commitment to enhancing its inspection capabilities by employing the latest devices and cutting-edge technologies. This strategy, the authority emphasised, is crucial for 'ensuring the protection of society from the dangers of narcotic substances and constitutes a deterrent to all those who would consider tampering with the security of the state". Officials highlighted that these efforts are part of a broader national strategy aimed at preserving the security and safety of the community. The authority also stressed its dedication to adopting innovative and advanced methodologies to combat drug smuggling and the movement of other dangerous materials, particularly in light of the increasing challenges and evolving tactics employed by criminal gangs. 'Protecting the security of society, preserving its stability, and protecting youth from the negative effects of drugs is a top priority,' the authority affirmed, underscoring the significance of such operations in maintaining public welfare.
Al Etihad
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Al Etihad
UAE exempts Sudanese nationals from fines related to residence, entry permits
10 May 2025 21:15 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Based on the directives of the wise leadership, and within the framework of the UAE's established humanitarian approach, the UAE's Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security has decided to exempt Sudanese nationals from fines related to residence permits and entry step reflects the country's commitment to mitigating the repercussions of the exceptional circumstances facing the Republic of decision embodies the UAE's unwavering policy of supporting its brotherly nations and providing humanitarian assistance to affected peoples, especially in times of crisis, and is an extension of initiatives that affirm the country's position as a model of tolerance and human Authority explained that the decision will take effect from May 19, 2025, and will continue until the end of the current year. Citizens of the Republic of Sudan who have outstanding fines can rectify their status, and submit renewal applications through the Authority's official digital Authority explained that the procedures will be convenient and flexible, and that Sudanese nationals will be exempted from any outstanding fines. The Authority also affirmed that the decision comes within the framework of supporting national efforts aimed at enhancing social and humanitarian stability for residents in the country. It also embodies the vision of the wise leadership to instill the values of mercy and giving, and is a true embodiment of the UAE's mission to promote the principles of humanity and peace.
Time Out Dubai
07-05-2025
- Time Out Dubai
20 things your Emirates ID chip knows about you
Your Emirates ID is your most important card for life in the UAE, and you'll need it to do most things. From opening a bank account to getting some impressive perks and discounts, the card is a legal requirement for all UAE citizens and residents. But did you know in that tiny little card chip, there are over 20 pieces of information stored? According to the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security), your Emirates ID has nine security features to make it very difficult to falsify, in addition to a fingerprint biometric. On the front, you will see your 15-digit identification number, which will stick with you forever no matter how many times you get a new Emirates ID. But what is inside the ID chip itself? Own an Emirates ID? You need to know this The information stored on your Emirates ID chip The chip contains personal data of the holder, with some information encrypted so it can only be viewed by the authorised authorities. Your Emirates ID chip holds the following data: Identity number Personal photo Date of issue Date of expiry Full name Passport information Occupation Two fingerprints Sex Nationality Date of birth Mother's first name Sponsor name Sponsor number Sponsor type Marital status Family number Town number (for UAE national) Type of residence Residence number You can also have a digital version of your Emirates ID that can be stored on your phone instead of carrying around the physical copy. You can learn more about how to get one in our guide here and how to check on the status of your ID here. What can I get with my Emirates ID? Once you've got your Emirates ID, you can use the physical or digital card to redeem a host of benefits. For example, there are plenty of discounts to enjoy just for being a UAE resident, including a range of hotels and attractions. Even travelling through the airport is easier, as you can pass through the E-gates just by swiping your Emirates ID. You'll also find your ID handy to have if you need to take out money from a cash machine, as it can stand in for your bank card. You can read more about how to use this service correctly here. What does the number on my Emirates ID mean? You might have noticed the individual number on your Emirates ID, and wondered what the 15-digit code means. The first section, which reads 784, is the UAE ISO country code. The second section is related directly to you, and the four digits will most likely be your year of birth. The third section, made up of seven digits, is a number chosen at random, and the final one digit is a verification code. Living in Dubai? What the colour of your Dubai taxi roof actually means Yes, there are six colours and they all have different meanings Dubai resident deals to snap up this year What you need to unlock lots of discounts 5 must-know Emirates ID perks you should seriously be using Make life easier for yourself with these hacks
Al Etihad
14-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
70% of Indian tourists likely to extend stay in UAE due to relaxed visa conditions — survey
15 Apr 2025 00:38 Khaled Al Khawaldeh (Abu Dhabi) A new survey by global accounting and consultancy firm KPMG has found that 70% of surveyed Indian tourists were considering extending their stay in the UAE thanks to relaxed visa conditions. Late last year, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) announced that Indian nationals with valid tourist visas, residency permits or a green card from the US, UK and EU were eligible for a 14-day visa on entry which could be extended to 60 days. In a sign of the reforms success the rules have now been expanded to include those with permits from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. According to KPMG, the new visa conditions were likely to substantially boost tourism in the country which is home to approximately 4 million Indian expats. KPMG's latest "Dubai Hospitality report" released last week highlighted several other factors that were aiding in the rapid growth of tourism in the country, including the rising popularity of cruise ship tours. According to KPMG's survey, 62% of people were likely to book a cruise in 2025, with many looking for reputation as well as access to a variety of ports as being key to their choice. The report highlighted the UAE's growing potential as a key cruise stop thanks to its central location and highly developed maritime infrastructure. The report also highlighted the growing international conference and event calendar as a catalyst for the continued growth of tourism in the country. The study highlighted events such as Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, GITEX and the Dubai World Cup as key attractors of foreign visitors. Moreover, the report forecast that the rising popularity of staycations would also contribute to greater tourist footfall. According to KPMG, staycations rose substantially year-on-year in the last Eid Al Fitr holiday period, a rise they expect will continue as the number of attractions around the emirates diversified. KPMG's analysis also highlighted the growing importance of ICT integration, with 77% of respondents saying they had used online and mobile channels to book their stay and 92% saying they were satisfied with the experience.
Gulf Insider
25-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
UAE: Two Fined Dh600,000 For Employing 12 Workers Illegally
A UAE court has fined two individuals Dh600,000 for employing 12 workers illegally. The duo was arrested during inspections conducted in February. The 12 workers were fined Dh1,000 and deported from the country. This came as the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) revealed it conducted 252 inspections last month to arrest residency law violators. Without specifying how many, the authority said several illegals were arrested as 4,771 establishments were inspected. Violations included employing workers (whether illegals or legal residents brought by contractors) without a permit and working for a company despite being employed by another. Major-General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director-general of the ICP, said the arrested illegals were referred to the authorities concerned for legal action. Based on court rulings, the violators and those employing them have been fined, with some deported. The officer warned of up to Dh50,000 in fines for employing or housing a worker illegally. The same penalty applies to recruiting workers without giving them jobs and letting them work for other companies. The penalties are multiplied for repeat offences. Major-General Al Khaili urged companies and individuals to adhere to the residency law when hiring. He advised them to refrain from employing workers without a contract. In January, the ICP had arrested 6,000 violators of the residency law and deported most of them. This came as the authority intensified inspections after a four-month visa amnesty ended in December. During the grace period from September 1 to December 31 last year, violators were allowed to either leave the country without a ban or secure a new work contract and remain in the UAE legally. 'This initiative helped a significant number of individuals regularise their status following the conclusion of the grace period,' Major-General Suhail said then without specifying how many illegals availed of the amnesty. 'The authority intensified its inspection campaigns nationwide to locate remaining violators and enforce necessary legal actions against them.'
