The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) has introduced the Abu Dhabi Trade Information Portal (TIP), an integrated digital platform aimed at facilitating import, export and re-export procedures in the emirate. Launched in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Customs and Maqta Gateway, part of Abu Dhabi Ports Group’s Digital Cluster, TIP is designed to enhance transparency, reduce costs, and improve efficiency in trade operations.
Key features
TIP is the latest component of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Trade and Logistics Platform (ATLP). It provides comprehensive information and tools to streamline trade processes across sea, land, and air routes, as well as special economic and free zones. The platform offers details on regulations, fees, taxes and procedures for each stage of the trade journey. Additionally, TIP facilitates the digital issuance of permits, licenses, and certifications, as well as provides templates for key trade documents like Bills of Lading and Certificates of Origin.
By integrating Harmonized System (HS) codes, the portal tailors step-by-step guidance for transactions based on product details and transit methods. TIP also leverages historical data from Abu Dhabi’s Border Meter system to estimate timelines and costs per procedure. According to the OECD, such digital platforms can reduce customs compliance times by up to 50% and lower transaction costs by $100 to $1,000 per operation.
Economic impact
TIP is expected to enhance Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness in global markets by simplifying trade procedures and empowering local businesses to expand their exports. Mohammed Al Kamali, Chief Trade and Industry Officer at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, emphasised the broader goals of the portal, saying: “The launch of TIP represents a transformative advancement in Abu Dhabi’s advanced trade ecosystem. This pioneering platform not only streamlines processes but also underscores our unwavering commitment to cultivating a business-friendly environment and championing an innovative, digital-first approach to global trade.”
The platform complements other components of the ATLP, such as the Abu Dhabi Export Gateway (ADEG), which helps exporting companies identify suitable markets, contributing to the emirate’s GDP growth.
