BigBear.ai and AD Ports Group have announced a strategic partnership to explore the development of next-generation AI-powered customs management systems for ports and border crossings. The collaboration brings together BigBear.ai’s expertise in mission-ready artificial intelligence for national security and customs operations with AD Ports Group’s global leadership in port management, logistics, and trade facilitation. The partnership, unveiled during the World Customs Organization Technology Conference in Abu Dhabi, aims to co-develop advanced AI solutions that enhance the speed, accuracy, and security of cargo and passenger processing at ports and borders. With seaborne trade accounting for 70% of global commerce—valued at approximately $17 trillion annually—the need for smarter, faster, and more secure customs operations has never been greater. Kevin McAleenan, CEO of BigBear.ai and former U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner, emphasized the strategic value of the alliance. He noted that the partnership combines BigBear.ai’s deep experience in AI-driven customs systems with AD Ports Group’s extensive operational footprint and digital innovation capabilities. The goal is to reduce friction in global trade, improve government revenue collection, and strengthen the detection of illicit goods such as narcotics, weapons, and human trafficking. The companies envision expanding the initiative beyond maritime trade to include land border crossings and other critical cargo hubs. The collaboration also builds on BigBear.ai’s recent regional expansion, including the opening of its first office in Abu Dhabi in December 2025 and partnerships with local entities like Vigilix and Easy Lease, both part of the International Holding Company. In January 2026, BigBear.ai signed a memorandum of understanding with EDGE Group to explore AI-driven platforms for defense, infrastructure, and national security. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, said the partnership marks a pivotal step in advancing AI-enabled digital trade solutions. He highlighted the importance of integrating cutting-edge AI into customs ecosystems to improve efficiency, transparency, and risk management across global supply chains. The collaboration underscores a growing trend of public-private partnerships leveraging AI to modernize critical infrastructure. As global trade volumes rise and security threats evolve, intelligent systems capable of processing vast amounts of data in real time are becoming essential for both economic and national security. BigBear.ai, headquartered in McLean, Virginia, is a publicly traded company on the NYSE under the ticker BBAI. AD Ports Group, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX: ADPORTS), operates across five business clusters—Ports, Economic Cities & Free Zones, Maritime & Shipping, Logistics, and Digital—with a presence in over 50 countries and more than 550 square kilometers of economic zones through its KEZAD Group portfolio. The companies stressed that the partnership remains in the exploratory phase, with further details expected in the coming months.