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The Land Customs Department at the General Authority of Customs has thwarted an attempt to smuggle 24.39g of narcotic substance (Hashish and Shabu), alongside 30 Lyrica pills.  The Customs officer in charge at Abu Samra Land Border suspected a traveller coming into the country through the land crossing and accordingly ordered the full thorough search of his vehicle.  The traveller was himself subjected to pat-down search at the designated room.  Eventually, the seized contraband materials were found concealed inside his luggage and on his body. 

The General Authority of Customs and the General Tax Authority announced the launch of new electronic integration services between the Al Nadeeb electronic customs clearance system and the Dhareeba tax transaction management platform.A statement from the authority said there will be 11 joint digital services, reflecting the strong institutional integration between the two authorities, supporting the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 in terms of digital transformation and excellence in government services.The new services will standardise procedures between the customs and tax sectors and enhance the efficiency of operational processes. The services cover registration, tax returns, the movement of goods, and excise tax procedures. They are supported by the secure and automated exchange of data between the two authorities, reducing reliance on manual data entry, limiting duplication, and improving data accuracy and reliability.Speaking during the joint meeting, His Excellency Chairman of the General Authority of Customs Ahmad bin Abdullah al-Jamal said that the new package was the result of strong institutional cooperation between the two authorities. He noted that it reflected the shared commitment to building an interconnected digital government ecosystem that simplifies procedures, accelerates transaction processing, and enhances data quality and accuracy. He added that this supports more effective decision-making, strengthens compliance and transparency, and positively contributes to the business environment.His Excellency President of the General Tax Authority Khalifa bin Jassim al-Jaham al-Kuwari praised the ongoing institutional integration cooperation with the General Authority of Customs. He noted that it embodies the principle of interconnected government services, facilitates business procedures in the country, and improves data quality to support planning and risk governance. He added that the partnership forms part of the Authority's strategy to strengthen coordination with national public- and private-sector institutions, enabling more efficient and effective services.The joint meeting also included a presentation on the new services and their operational mechanisms. Both authorities reaffirmed their commitment to implementing further digital initiatives and integrated projects that strengthen their partnership and contribute to building a digital government capable of delivering proactive services based on institutional integration and high-quality data.

People travelling to Qatar with cash or items worth more than QR 50,000 are advised to declare it at the Customs office at the airport, an official from the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has stressed.“If you carry cash or other items which are worth more than QR 50,000, the same may be declared at the Customs Disclosure Office under the General Authority of Customs,” said Capt Abdullah Shaheen Muhammed al-Rumaihi, officer at Airport Security Department.Capt al-Rumaihi was speaking at a webinar recently organised by MoI to raise awareness on various aspects of safe travel to enhance general awareness among the community as the holiday season has started. Another aspect that Capt al-Rumaihi highlighted during the webinar was the common mistake by passengers in carrying liquid in bottles to the airport.“Travellers are not allowed to carry along with them liquid in bottles in excess of 100ml. However, they can carry one litre of liquid provided that the capacity of each bottle does not exceed 100ml. They should place all the 100ml bottles in one transparent plastic bag that is easy to open and close,” suggested Capt al-Rumaihi.The official advised the travellers not make any controversial remarks in jest while checking in the luggage or during the immigration check. “Airlines officials may ask the travellers certain clarifications. The officials could ask the travellers if they possess any prohibited items or explosives. If you answer them jokingly in the affirmative, it can land you in trouble. So when people are at the airline counter at the airport, they should take all the routine questions of the airline staff very seriously and answer them accordingly.”He said that even if jokingly admitting to such factors can lead to the cancellation of the travel and the person may be taken to the competent authorities. “The security procedures and requirements at the airport are not set to tire out and delay the travelers. They are set in order to ensure the safety and security of them. So people always have to cooperate with the officials and make the right decisions and responses during the entire travel procedure,” Capt al-Rumaihi pointed out.“We take all necessary measures against violators by referring them to the competent authorities. In implementing our security plan and procedures, we rely on a highly trained staff to deal efficiently with threats and problems,” he stressed.He also noted that before the travel, it is important to ensure that all the documents and flight reservations are ready. “Passengers should arrange their bags themselves and be fully aware of the contents inside it. Do not carry the belongings and bags of others without the knowledge of its contents because many people may exploit their friends to smuggle prohibited items,” added Capt al-Rumaihi. 

The chairman of the General Authority of Customs (GAC) and chairman of the GCC Customs Union Authority Executive Council, HE Ahmed bin Abdullah al-Jamal, met on Sunday with Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi.The GAC reported that the meeting, which took place in Riyadh, discussed updated on the Customs Union Authority's work, as well as joint Gulf customs projects and the requirements for completing the establishment of the customs union.The meeting further explored mechanisms to enhance co-ordination and co-operation with relevant government authorities in member states, in a way that supports the implementation of joint initiatives and projects and helps achieve their intended objectives.HE al-Jamal thanked Albudaiwi for his unwavering support for the Customs Union Authority's work, as well as his commitment to removing challenges facing Gulf customs operations. 

Qatar Chamber recently concluded the 34th session of its training programme for customs brokers and representatives, which went on for a month.Organised in collaboration with the General Authority of Customs (QAC), the programme aims to qualify customs clearance operators and enhance their knowledge of regulations related to customs procedures. It also seeks to advance the customs clearance profession, improve the performance of workers in this sector, provide high-quality customs services to the public, and reduce congestion at customs ports.Presented by customs experts, the programme addressed a wide range of topics, including preferential international agreements, customs procedures, customs tariffs in accordance with the harmonised system, provisions and rules of origin, customs law, and the Al-Nadeeb Programme.Since its inception in 2015, the programme has played a pivotal role in preparing many customs brokers and representatives. Upon completion, trainees receive attested certificates from QC that qualify them to take the final test administered at the premises of QAC.Qatar Chamber regularly organises this programme as part of its efforts to equip the Qatari business community with skilled customs brokers, thereby facilitating and expediting clearance procedures at the country's ports. 

 The Land Customs Department foiled an attempt to smuggle tobacco products to evade customs duties and excise taxes. The customs officer in charge suspected a truck entering the country. Upon a thorough search of the truck, the tobacco was found hidden in various cavities. Accordingly, 15,000 cigarettes were found. 

The General Authority of Customs and Qatar Aviation Services have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at improving customs clearance processes for personal imports arriving by air freight.The agreement was signed by the Authority's Assistant President for Customs Ports Affairs, Ahmed Youssef al-Sahl, and Qatar Aviation Services' Head of Air Cargo, Mark Anthony Drusch.Under the MoU, both parties will cooperate on customs clearance procedures for air-freight personal imports, with the goal of accelerating release processes, raising service efficiency, and simplifying shipping and clearance operations.Al-Sahl reaffirmed the Authority's commitment to forging strategic partnerships that strengthen the customs clearance system and improve transaction processing speeds, particularly for personal imports. He noted the Authority's broader push to develop advanced electronic services across all sectors, underlining its role as an economic pillar that facilitates international trade and supports Qatar's investment environment.Drusch said the agreement reflected both parties' recognition that closer cooperation was essential to accelerating clearance processes and deepening integration among stakeholders across the shipping and logistics sector — developments he said would translate into tangible improvements in customer service.The MoU commits Qatar Aviation Services to conducting clearance operations in line with approved regulations, upholding fair competition and non-monopolisation principles, maintaining transparency in service pricing, and sharing relevant data through electronic systems in full compliance with customs laws.Both sides will jointly monitor the implementation of clearance procedures, conduct periodic performance assessments, and produce reports to support decision-making and drive continued service improvements. 

Hamad International Airport (HIA) Customs Department has foiled an attempt to smuggle around 5kg of the illicit narcotic substance, Shabu.**media[419593]**The Customs officers on duty suspected a traveller arriving in the country through the airport. Accordingly, the luggage of the traveller was subjected to full search through the specialised search and scanning equipment. After further manual search, the illicit substance was found hidden in a secret manner inside loudspeakers and different toys. Eventually, the necessary legal procedures were taken. 

In Qatar, as in many Gulf countries, the Ramadan drummer (musahar in Arabic) was one of its most prominent figures. This man – who began his work in the last third of the night, about two hours before dawn – was the link between the community’s customs and the rhythm of Ramadan. The musahar is the person who roams the streets and alleys of Qatari neighbourhoods during Ramadan to wake those fasting for their pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) before the start of the fast. He uses a drum or tambourine, beating it rhythmically, and chants short religious calls in a melodious voice to remind people of the time. According to researchers of folklore, the most famous phrase the drummer would chant on his rounds was: “There is no God but God, Muhammad is the Messenger of God... There is no God but God, it’s time for suhoor, O servants of God.” Each neighbourhood had its own Ramadan drummer, who would walk through the alleys, beating his drum and walking amid the houses. Families relied on this voice to wake them for Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal), as modern communication methods such as electric alarm clocks were unavailable at the time. Among the names of those famous for their role as musahar in Doha in the past were Salim Bu Haloum, Karam bin Awad, Saad bin Awad, Saad bin Nayem, Rashid al-Mas, and Idris Khairi; their legacy will keep on for generations. With the development of Qatari society, improved living standards, and the introduction of modern communication technologies, the role of the musahar gradually diminished.However, it remains present in some areas as a traditional practice intended to preserve Ramadan memories. As researchers confirm, this seasonal profession reflects a social and spiritual way of life that was prevalent in Qatar, where the musahar was a social and spiritual figure. His presence in the neighbourhood reminded people of the virtues of Suhoor, and he symbolised community co-operation and communication during a month that reinforced collective values and solidarity. 

The General Authority of Customs (GAC) has honoured Qatar Chamber (QC) in recognition of its continuous support and co-operation, during a ceremony held as part of the authority’s celebration of World Customs Day.The certificate of honour was presented by His Excellency the Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed al-Kuwari to Sheikha Tamader al-Thani, director of the International Relations and Chambers Affairs Department at Qatar Chamber, in the presence of Ahmed bin Abdullah al-Jamal, chairman of the General Authority of Customs.Sheikha Tamader expressed her appreciation to the General Authority of Customs for the honour, noting that it reflects the longstanding partnership and cooperation between the two entities. She affirmed their shared commitment to supporting trade flows and enhancing the business environment in Qatar.She affirmed that the honour serves as an impetus to further develop collaboration mechanisms between both sides, thereby facilitating customs procedures, improving private-sector services, and enhancing national economic competitiveness.Sheikha Tamader also stressed that Qatar Chamber attaches great importance to strengthening co-operation with the authority, praising the authority’s pivotal role in supporting foreign trade and protecting the national economy.She also expressed her hope to expand areas of cooperation in the future in a manner that serves the interests of the business community and supports the sustainable economic development in Qatar. 

The Ministry of Sports and Youth team were crowned as champions of the 2025 Ministries and Government Entities Futsal Championship, after defeating the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs' team 3-1. The championship, organised by the Qatar Sports For All Federation (QSFA) at the Lusail Sports Hall, saw the Ministry of Municipality team claim 3rd place after beating the General Authority of Customs team 2-0. **media[381242]** President of QSFA Abdulrahman bin Musallam al-Dosari expressed his happiness with the event's success and the sportsmanship it featured. He noted that the championship has become one of the most important annual events, widely welcomed by employees of government bodies, due to its excellent blend of athletic competition, social interaction, and positive engagement. The QSFA president congratulated the Ministry of Sports and Youth team on their well-deserved victory and emphasised QSFA's commitment to promoting corporate sports and encouraging employees to engage in physical activity as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. **media[381243]** QSFA Executive Director Abdullah al-Dosari said the championship saw wide participation over the course of a month, featuring 10 teams representing various ministries, authorities, and government entities. Al-Dosari said that the event showcased intense competition and exciting matches, praising the enthusiastic crowd and the strong turnout from different ministries and entities. Through this championship and other initiatives under its corporate sports programme, QSFA aims to reinforce sports as an essential part of workplace culture and to support futsal enthusiasts across government institutions. **media[381244]** Executive Director of QSFA stated the Ministries and Entities Championship has become more than just a futsal competition; rather, it is a message promoting teamwork and improving work environment through sports and physical activity, in line with the Ministry of Sports and Youth's goals and strategies.

The General Authority of Customs has launched its 2024-2030 strategic plan, aimed at strengthening its central role in protecting society, supporting the national economy, and modernising the customs system.The plan aligns with Qatar's Third National Development Strategy and contributes to the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030.In a statement Sunday, the Authority said the plan was officially inaugurated by HE Chairman of the General Authority of Customs, Ahmed bin Abdullah al-Jamal.The strategic roadmap outlines a balanced approach between enhancing national security and facilitating international trade. It aims to ensure the secure flow of goods and reinforce Qatar's position as a leading regional and global trade hub.The plan envisions smart and secure customs, regional leadership and global competitiveness, and its mission is centered on delivering innovative and intelligent customs services that meet sustainable development goals through national security enhancement, community protection, trade facilitation, revenue generation, and commercial data collection.Speaking at the launch event, Laila Hamad al-Nisf, Director of Planning, Quality, and Innovation, emphasised that the modern role of customs extends beyond inspections and fee collection. Customs now plays a vital part in enabling the safe flow of international trade and fostering local, regional, and global partnerships.She noted the importance of continuously developing the authority's institutional and regulatory environment, investing in national workforce capabilities, and integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and customs automation.The plan includes defined outcomes and goals to position the Authority as a regional leader in delivering high-quality services via a secure and intelligent customs system. Core pillars include establishing efficient operational systems, delivering integrated and proactive services, developing a high-performing financial system, and promoting a culture of excellence and competence by developing leadership and anticipating future challenges.