With conflict disrupting transport routes and commercial operations across the Middle East, the TIR transit system is once again keeping supply chains afloat, enabling the secure and efficient movement of essential goods.
In close cooperation with the customs authorities of the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and with the support of IRU members the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) and the Saudi Automobile Association (SATA), TIR continues to enable uninterrupted transit operations and support the business community during a period marked by unpredictability and increased logistical constraints.
Ensuring the flow of essential cargo
In response to the operational challenges triggered by the current crisis, TIR is playing a key role in maintaining the movement of essential goods between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. TIR is leveraging fast-track customs procedures where transport operators can move time-sensitive goods with reliability and minimal delays.
The use of the Saudi–Qatar land border as a secure transit corridor under TIR has ensured that critical supplies continue to reach their destinations, alleviating pressure on air and sea routes affected by the crisis.
Maintaining supply chain continuity
IRU Secretary General Umberto de Pretto said, “At times of crisis, supply chain reliability becomes more than a commercial necessity – it becomes a lifeline. The continued flow of essential goods between Saudi Arabia and Qatar shows how TIR provides the predictability, security and efficiency that governments and businesses need.
“We commend the customs authorities and national associations of both countries for their exceptional support. Their commitment to keeping borders open and trade moving exemplifies the very spirit of the TIR system.”
QCCI Chairman H.E. Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al-Thani said, “Qatar Chamber, the national TIR guaranteeing association, is working hand in hand with the General Authority of Customs to provide alternative transport solutions, offering priority lanes and accelerated clearance procedures by integrating TIR digital tools into Qatar’s ‘Al Nadeeb’ customs system.
“The digital submission of advance cargo information that the TIR system offers has significantly reduced waiting times at the border. By enabling customs authorities to receive, verify and process shipment data electronically before arrival, TIR operators benefited from faster, smoother, and more predictable border procedures.”
Qatar Customs Authority Assistant Chairman for Customs Affairs Talal Abdullah Al-Shaibi said, “Qatar Customs is always keen to facilitate the transit and movement of goods in support of trade activities and to meet the needs of local market consumers in the region.”
Talal Abdullah Al-Shaibi noted that TIR allows goods to move quickly from the country of origin to the country of destination in sealed load containers under customs control throughout the entire supply chain.
He also highlighted that TIR’s digital IT tools have been implemented within the Qatari customs platform Al Nadeeb Customs System, in integration with the international road transport platform since May 2025, enabling the completion of all required customs procedures in a fully digital manner, including for exports, imports and transit shipments.
About TIR
TIR, the only global transit system, enables the transport of goods from one country to another, transiting as many countries as needed along the way, via a secure, multilateral, multimodal, and mutually recognised system.
Goods are sealed at the point of origin and only reopened at their destination – regardless of how many national borders are crossed.
TIR also provides a financial guarantee for the payment of suspended duties and taxes.