BigBear.ai and AD Ports Group Partner to Build Next-Generation AI Customs Systems
Date: Jan 28, 2026 - Abu Dhabi, UAE and McLean, VA
BigBear.ai (NYSE: BBAI) and Maqta Technologies, the digital arm of AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), have entered a strategic partnership to co-develop AI-driven customs and border solutions for government authorities and port operators. The announcement was made during the World Customs Organization Technology Conference in Abu Dhabi.
Why this matters for executives and IT leaders
Seaborne trade accounts for roughly 70% of global commerce by value, with ports processing vast volumes of cargo and travelers. The partnership focuses on speeding clearances, improving accuracy, and strengthening detection of contraband-while raising collections and ROI. Expect targeted deployments for ports, land borders, and other critical cargo hubs.
What the collaboration will target
- Faster, more accurate processing at ports of entry
- Improved government collections and revenue assurance
- Higher detection rates for human trafficking, narcotics, arms, and other illicit goods
- Operational efficiency across seaborne and land-border flows
Potential capabilities to expect
- Risk scoring and anomaly detection using multi-source data
- Automated document classification and entity resolution
- Image and sensor analytics for non-intrusive inspection
- Queue and throughput optimization with real-time insights
- Performance dashboards for collections, compliance, and dwell times
Context and momentum
BigBear.ai recently opened its first regional office in Abu Dhabi and established partnerships with Vigilix and Easy Lease (owned by IHC). On Jan 20, 2026, the company signed an MoU with EDGE Group to explore AI platform solutions across defense, infrastructure, and national security. AD Ports Group brings deep expertise in port community systems, customs ecosystems, and global logistics networks.
Executive takeaways
- AI can compress clearance times while maintaining or improving security and compliance
- Better targeting and risk models reduce unnecessary inspections and costs
- Revenue outcomes improve via accurate declarations and fewer leakages
- Integrated platforms reduce fragmentation across customs, terminals, and logistics partners
IT and development checklist
- Data integration: PCS, manifest, NII imagery, traveler data, payment, and audit trails
- Interoperability: alignment with WCO data models and national single windows
- Model governance: bias testing, explainability for risk decisions, and human-in-the-loop
- Security and privacy: strong access controls, encryption, logging, and localization where mandated
- Scalability: multi-tenant options for authorities and operators, with API-first design
- Change management: training for officers and operators; clear SOPs for exception handling
What to watch next
- Pilot locations and early metrics: clearance time reductions, hit accuracy, and collections uplift
- Integration depth with customs ecosystems and port community systems
- Cross-border data-sharing frameworks and compliance certifications
- Expansion beyond seaborne trade into land borders and multimodal corridors
Leadership commentary
BigBear.ai leadership emphasized the pairing of their AI and customs experience with AD Ports Group's operational scale in port management and logistics. AD Ports Group underscored the focus on efficiency, transparency, and risk management across global trade networks.
About the companies
BigBear.ai: Public company providing mission-ready AI for defense, national security, and critical infrastructure. Learn more at bigbear.ai.
AD Ports Group: A leading global facilitator of logistics, industry, and trade, operating five business clusters and 35 terminals with a presence in over 50 countries. Learn more at adportsgroup.com.
For teams building similar capabilities
If you're upskilling teams on AI for logistics, customs, or border operations, explore curated role-based programs here: Complete AI Training: Courses by Job.
Note on forward-looking statements
The partnership includes plans and projections that may change due to market, policy, funding, or operational factors. Refer to BigBear.ai's SEC filings for risks and updates.
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