Dubai’s Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) has affirmed its vital role in global economic connectivity and trade facilitation, reporting record commercial operations for 2024 that generated AED 708 billion (approximately $193 billion). The announcement, made by His Excellency Nasser Al Neyadi, CEO of the PCFC, during a recent media session, highlighted how the entity is driving Dubai’s growth goals, reinforcing its financial foundation, and setting new global benchmarks in trade, technology integration, and maritime infrastructure development.
The PCFC’s performance is intrinsically linked to the ambitious development vision set forth by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Speaking at the ‘Meet the CEO’ session organized by the Government of Dubai Media Office, Al Neyadi underscored the corporation’s status as a critical financial and strategic pillar supporting the government budget and maintaining Dubai’s competitive edge in key global indicators.
From Historic Roots to Global Maritime Leader
Al Neyadi traced the deep historical connection between Dubai’s trade success and its customs authority, noting the establishment of the Furda Department on the Dubai Creek in 1886. This early institution, one of the region’s oldest public entities, laid the groundwork for the emirate’s transformation from a modest trading post to a formidable international commercial gateway.
“From 1886 until today, the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation continues to embody Dubai’s ambition to be the fastest-growing, safest, and most globally connected city,” Al Neyadi stated. He emphasized that continuous leadership, coupled with strategic investment in Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and sustainability, is propelling Dubai to the forefront of smart maritime port development.
Strategic Expansion and Economic Ecosystem
The PCFC functions as a central driver of Dubai’s economy, overseeing not only Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)—the world’s largest free zone—but also managing an integrated economic ecosystem that hosts over 12,000 global and regional companies. This infrastructure supports more than 500,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Significant expansion is planned for the Jebel Ali Free Zone through a new restructuring initiative, designed to upgrade infrastructure and attract further international businesses, cementing Dubai’s reputation as an investment hub for the next 50 years. The CEO highlighted the PCFC’s rigorous adherence to performance metrics, viewing past success as the only true competitor.
Beyond Dubai, the corporation’s influence is vast. The PCFC currently oversees operations in more than 146 ports across 76 countries, supported by a global workforce of 155,000 employees. Domestically, its portfolio includes major assets such as Mina Rashid, Al Hamriya Port, and Jebel Ali Port, one of the world’s premier container ports, alongside facilities that bolster local fisheries and marine tourism.
Digital & Regulatory Innovation
In alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the PCFC is rolling out several pioneering projects to enhance the business environment and reinforce its unique position as a maritime gateway. A standout initiative is the ‘Dubai Ports Code,’ described as the first of its kind globally, intended to serve as a comprehensive blueprint for developing, managing, and regulating port and marina infrastructure locally and internationally using the best practices in maritime engineering.
The corporation’s broad digital strategy encompasses sophisticated technologies aimed at efficiency and security:
- Port Eye: An advanced monitoring system leveraging drones and AI for infrastructure inspection and enhanced maritime safety.
- Marsa: A unified smart platform streamlining the management and leasing of marinas, drastically reducing administrative processing times.
- Digital 04: A national company focused on providing digital solutions to transform global maritime trade and operational management.
Reflecting international confidence in Dubai’s premier facilities and services, the first half of 2025 witnessed a notable surge in foreign yacht arrivals, increasing by 149% compared to the same period in 2024. This increase positions Dubai as a leading global destination for luxury marine tourism, capitalizing on its advanced infrastructure and iconic seaside attractions.
The PCFC continues to elevate Dubai’s standing by focusing on innovation, strategic leadership, and the seamless integration of technology to maintain its position as a world-leading smart trade hub.