Dubai, UAE – Saturday 18 May 2019:  Corporate Communications Department at Dubai Customs received Ludovic Thanay, Head of Communications, Events and Strategic Planning Unit, World Customs Organization (WCO). The meeting was organized by Dubai Customs with the aim of sharing best communication practices and strategies with the WCO. 

Khalil Saqer bin Gharib, Director of Corporate Communication Department overviewed the performance indicators and overall communication methodologies in place in the department including CSR, Media and PR. 

“We have built a coherent communication strategy over the years, which is key to ensure the most current and important information about the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) and Dubai Customs is always available and being conveyed to both our internal and external audiences” bin Gharib said. “Our communication strategy is constantly evolving to grow and keep pace with competitors and the industry.”
 
Thanay applauded the Communication Department’s performance reporting policy which takes place on a quarterly basis, and is followed by recommendations and corrective actions.  

He outlined the process in place at the WCO in terms of the development of strategy and its alignment to corporate strategy which cascades down to an operational plan. 

Dubai Customs received the 'Best Government Communication Strategy, UAE' award in the third Sharjah Government Communication Award (GCA 2016), and the best communication and marketing plan designed for the WCO IT Conference, among others.

Thanay said Dubai Customs’ communication plan will add value to the WCO’s communication portfolio and by sharing it with other members of the organization a best practice policy can be reached to develop a communication strategy to enhance awareness and visibility of the WCO’s vision and programs. 

“The overall objective is to ensure that all stakeholders are duly informed of the benefits of different customs programs and strategies and develop a sustainable engagement, leading to a mutual cooperation and support of planned activities, he said.