First Saudi TIR export shipment speeds across UAE border

he first TIR shipment from Saudi Arabia has arrived safely in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Operating under a single customs transit document and a single guarantee, Almajdouie Logistics moved almost 25 tonnes of aluminium across the border, taking advantage of the TIR electronic pre-declaration (EPD) application to reduce waiting times at customs from two days to just four hours. 

With support from both governments, IRU members the Saudi Automobile and Touring Association and the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE collaborated closely to run the landmark operation successfully.

TIR will facilitate trade between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and strengthen the GCC’s role as a global trading hub. 

With Oman set to become TIR operational, transport operators in the GCC region can expect further reductions in transport times and costs. The implementation of the TIR system has already reduced the transport time from Dubai, UAE to Amman, Jordan from eight days to just four. All GCC countries have recognised the increased efficiency offered by TIR and have committed to using the system. 

Reducing transport costs is particularly important given that IRU’s COVID-19 Impact Report indicates that cash flow will be a key business challenge in the Middle East following the pandemic. According to the report, the GDP of both Saudi Arabia and the UAE is expected to drop by 5%. In the Middle East alone, the road transport industry is expected to sustain losses nearing USD 24 billion. 

The road transport industry has a key role to play in economic recovery. Harmonised transit solutions that save time and minimise human contact at border crossings will enable it to play this role.