Dubai: In a decisive step to strengthen its security infrastructure and regulatory oversight, Dubai has partnered with Germany to bolster controls over dual-use goods—materials that can be utilized for both civilian and military purposes.
The Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), in collaboration with Germany’s Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), hosted a four-day technical workshop titled “Export and Import Controls on Dual-Use Goods”. Held from April 7 to 10, the workshop brought together high-level international experts and key representatives from Dubai government entities, including Dubai Customs, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and the Executive Office for Control and Non-Proliferation.
Safeguarding Trade Channels from Illicit Use
Dual-use goods—ranging from software and electronics to chemicals and advanced technologies—are subject to stringent regulations, as their potential misuse for military or terrorist purposes poses a significant threat to global security.
SIRA underscored that the initiative is part of its broader strategy to cultivate international partnerships that reinforce Dubai’s commitment to responsible trade, compliance, and public safety. The agency’s Restricted Goods Department, which supervises the issuance of permits for hazardous and dual-use materials, played a key role in organizing the program.
Building Capacity Through Global Best Practices
The primary objective of the training was to enhance the technical expertise and decision-making capabilities of government officials who oversee the import and export of sensitive goods. Participants underwent hands-on simulations and in-depth discussions on aligning with international legal, technical, and administrative standards.
The sessions focused on improving regulatory evaluations, strengthening institutional coordination, and applying global governance principles in the assessment of export licenses and end-use certifications.
Among the international experts who led the workshop were:
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Werner Knapp, Head of Department, BAFA
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Janis Brozowski, Project Manager, BAFA
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Nikolai Karthaus, Licensing Expert, BAFA
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John Noble, Senior End-Use Evaluation Expert, United Kingdom
Toward a Safer Trade Ecosystem
The workshop concluded with a structured evaluation session, during which participants reviewed key learnings, proposed actionable improvements, and emphasized the need for continuous specialized training.
SIRA officials reiterated the importance of maintaining robust compliance systems, expanding knowledge-sharing initiatives, and fostering strategic alliances with global regulatory bodies like BAFA.
This initiative marks a significant move toward aligning Dubai’s trade security standards with those of advanced economies, further solidifying the emirate’s role as a secure and responsible global trade hub.
