Dubai Hosts 28th Universal Postal Congress To Shape Future

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE welcomed the world for the 28th Universal Postal Congress. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, attended the opening of this important event. The Congress, running until 19 September 2025, is taking place under the theme “Leading Change, Creating the Future.”

Bringing Together 192 Countries

The Congress has attracted delegations from 192 member countries of the Universal Postal Union (UPU). This makes it one of the largest international gatherings in the postal and logistics sector. The event is jointly organised by the UPU and 7X, the UAE’s official representative to the Union. Hosting such a global event highlights the UAE’s role as a hub for postal and logistics services.

Touring The UAE Pavilion

During the opening, Sheikh Ahmed toured the UAE Pavilion, which showcases the nation’s postal history and future. The pavilion includes a postal museum that takes visitors on a journey from traditional handwritten letters and early postage stamps to today’s modern digital postal systems. The pavilion also highlights innovations in technology, logistics, and e-commerce while giving space to stamp collectors and cultural displays.

A Hub For Agreements And Cooperation

Beyond exhibitions, the Congress will act as a platform for public and private sector agreements. Local and international organisations will use the event to sign new deals and form partnerships. Alongside official meetings, delegations will host side events, offering opportunities for knowledge-sharing, cooperation, and innovation in the postal and logistics sectors.

Launch Of A Special Stamp

To celebrate the UAE hosting the Congress, Sheikh Ahmed signed the first edition of a new official postal stamp. The design reflects the UAE’s leadership as a global postal and logistics hub and its commitment to digital transformation. The stamp also highlights the role of modern postal services in enabling e-commerce and smart solutions.

Leadership And Organisation Of The Congress

The opening session was led by Badr Al-Olama, Honorary Chair of the Congress and Chairman of 7X. The session was attended by ministers, ambassadors, and senior officials from the UAE and UPU member countries. During this session, participants elected Tariq Ahmed Al Wahedi, Group CEO of 7X, as the Chair of the 28th Congress. He will oversee the sessions and guide discussions in line with UPU’s constitution and procedures.

Setting The Agenda For Discussion

The first day of the Congress was very productive. Delegates approved the official agenda and work programme. They also confirmed the creation of specialised Congress bodies that will focus on detailed discussions. Key topics include strategy for global postal services, digital innovation, and new operational projects. This structured approach ensures that the Congress will create strong and practical results.

Strong Global Participation

The opening day saw an exceptional turnout, with more than 2,200 participants attending both in person and virtually. This hybrid participation model reflects the UAE’s ability to organise seamless international events that allow broad inclusivity. The strong engagement proves the importance of the Congress for the global postal community.

UPU Global Leaders Summit

One of the key highlights of the event is the UPU Global Leaders Summit, which brings together ministers, regulatory heads, postal institution leaders, and logistics experts. The summit encourages the exchange of ideas, experiences, and future visions. It serves as a platform to create a shared roadmap for the future of postal and logistics services worldwide.

Messages From Leaders

During the opening, Badr Al-Olama said that the Congress is a chance to shape the future of postal services so they remain relevant, modern, and responsive to 21st-century needs. He stressed that the UAE’s commitment to the Congress is based on partnership, cooperation, and action that will benefit generations to come.

Masahiko Metoki, the Director General of the UPU, also addressed the event. He highlighted the importance of working together, despite differences among nations, to build strong and common solutions. He said the Congress represents solidarity and universality, values that have made the postal community unique for over 150 years.

The Dubai Strategy 2026-2029

One of the most important outcomes of the Congress will be the adoption of a new global roadmap called the “Dubai Strategy” for 2026–2029. This strategy is based on four main pillars:

• Improving service quality.
• Promoting inclusivity.
• Accelerating digital transformation.
• Supporting sustainability.

The strategy will guide how postal services worldwide evolve over the next four years.

Electing New UPU Leadership

The Congress will also elect a new Director General and Deputy Director General of the UPU for the next term. In addition, members of the Council of Administration and the Postal Operations Council will be chosen. These bodies will ensure that the UPU continues to work smoothly and adapt to global needs.

Decisions On Postal Services

Delegates are expected to make a wide range of important decisions. These will include updating postal products, reforming remuneration and fee systems, and improving cooperation between postal operators and logistics partners. Such decisions aim to create a modern, integrated postal system that offers better quality, broader financial services, and enhanced cybersecurity.

Focus On Digital And Green Transformation

Tariq Ahmed Al Wahedi explained that the Congress will drive the digital transformation of postal systems through three main pillars. First, digital governance will standardise data, integrate operations, and strengthen cybersecurity. Second, smart infrastructure will use automation, analytics, and artificial intelligence to reduce costs and improve service. Third, strong partnerships will help member states expand access and ensure inclusive postal services.

He also stressed the Congress’ commitment to green energy and climate solutions, alongside stronger support for cross-border e-commerce—especially for small and medium businesses.

Celebrating Culture Through Stamps

The official stamp marking the event was designed by Emirati artist Yasmin Al Mulla. The stamp is more than just a symbol—it reflects the UAE’s journey by combining past, present, and future through art. It also celebrates the universal role of stamps in connecting cultures and people.

UAE’s Role In The Global Postal Community

By hosting the 28th Universal Postal Congress, the UAE reaffirms its position as a strong partner in the global postal and logistics network. The Congress demonstrates the country’s focus on innovation, people-centered development, and advanced technology. Through this event, the UAE contributes to building a more connected, sustainable, and inclusive global future for postal services.

Universal Postal Congress, Dubai global event, Postal digital future