ADC Digital Transformation Executive

Yanal Alkhasoneh, IT Director at Abu Dhabi Customs (ADC), is a visionary digital transformation leader with more than 20 years of experience driving technology-enabled change across government and trade ecosystems. Renowned for his ability to combine strategic foresight with execution excellence, Yanal has transformed customs and trade services by embedding artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotic process automation, advanced data platforms, and cybersecurity innovation into ADC’s core operations.

Under his leadership, ADC has pioneered world-first initiatives including:
• Digital Invisible Customs – a revolutionary model of seamless, automated border management.
• TradeChain (Blockchain Platform) – recognized globally by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
• DHAFRA Data Hub – powering predictive analytics and smart classification.
• Cybersecurity Horizon – a multi-layered defense framework safeguarding trade data.
• Remote Customs Examination, Integrated Document Management, and modern IT infrastructure – building resilience and operational continuity.

Yanal’s vision has delivered record-breaking milestones:
• Achieved Leader Level in the UAE Government Digital Maturity Index — the first and only entity to reach this benchmark.
• Attained 4.26/5 digital maturity rating by international firm (KPMG).
• Secured 100% compliance with UAE government cybersecurity standards.
• Earned 25+ international awards in just two years from GovMedia, Stevie Awards, Harvard Business Council, ICMG, and PEN-CP.

Beyond measurable results, Yanal is admired for his integrity, collaborative leadership, and commitment to future-ready talent development. His mission is to position ADC as a world-class customs authority setting new global benchmarks in trade facilitation, operational excellence, and digital government services.