Dubai is taking significant steps to improve its regulatory and inspection systems concerning dual-use goods. The Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), in collaboration with Germany’s Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), conducted a four-day training and awareness workshop titled “Export and Import Controls on Dual-Use Goods.”

According ti Gulf News, this workshop took place this week and was attended by various key entities from the Dubai government, including Dubai Customs, Dubai Municipality, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and the Executive Office for Control and Non-Proliferation.

Dual-use goods refer to items, software, and technologies that can be utilized for both civilian and military applications. Due to their nature, these items are subject to stringent regulations, as they can potentially be repurposed for military use or even terrorist activities. SIRA emphasized that this initiative reflects its dedication to fostering strategic partnerships at both local and international levels, thereby enhancing Dubai’s security and compliance framework.

The workshop aimed to build technical expertise and improve the professional capabilities of Dubai government personnel tasked with monitoring dual-use goods. Participants engaged in practical simulations and interactive sessions designed to train them on applying international legal, technical, and administrative standards for evaluating permit applications and regulatory procedures. Furthermore, the workshop sought to strengthen decision-making frameworks, promote institutional coordination, and align local practices with international governance standards.

Leading the training sessions were esteemed German specialists, including Werner Knapp, Head of Department at BAFA; Janis Brozowski, Project Manager at BAFA; Nikolai Karthaus, Licensing Expert at BAFA; and John Noble, Senior End-Use Evaluation Expert from the United Kingdom. At the conclusion of the workshop, SIRA reported a comprehensive evaluation session that gathered participant feedback, highlighted key findings, and proposed actionable plans. The discussions underscored the necessity for ongoing specialized training and the expansion of collaborative frameworks between SIRA and its international counterparts.