Authorized Economic Operator

The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program is one of the key customs development initiatives based on a voluntary partnership between Customs authorities and compliant trade establishments. It focuses on entities adhering to internationally recognized security and compliance standards issued by the World Customs Organization (WCO) under the SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE Framework).

The program was officially launched in the United Arab Emirates in October 2016, with the adoption of the National AEO Policy, which defines the operational rules, procedures, and privileges granted to participating companies. The program continues to grow steadily, with over 133 certified companies as of the end of the first quarter of 2025.

GCC Authorized Economic Operator (GCC AEO)

The GCC AEO Program is a unified customs initiative among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and security by granting trusted companies specific customs privileges. The program is founded on the principle of partnership between Customs administrations and the private sector, where the AEO status is awarded to companies that meet defined standards of customs compliance and supply chain security.

The program contributes to streamlining customs procedures, reducing inspections, and facilitating the movement of goods among GCC member states, while progressing toward mutual recognition among the region’s Customs administrations.

To view the unified guide, forms, and procedures related to the program:

Benefits of the GCC Authorized Economic Operator Program:

  • Procedural benefits
  • Security benefits
  • Financial benefits
  • Benefits with regulatory and border authorities
  • Mutual recognition agreement benefits