Press Release: UPU departs Dubai with renewed vision for the future

The UPU's 28th Universal Postal Congress closed in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, today, providing the UN specialized agency with the mandate and resources needed to drive the transformation of the postal network over the next four years.

In closing remarks to the Congress, UPU Director General Masahiko Metoki said, "This Congress has been more than a gathering. It has been a moment of transformation, during which we faced challenges head-on, redefined our role in a rapidly changing world, and reaffirmed the values that unite us. I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to the Government of the United Arab Emirates for generously hosting this important assembly of postal decision makers."

The Congress drew together representatives with 169 member countries physically present, as well as observers, for two weeks of debate on the future development of the postal sector.

New strategy & direction

Member countries adopted the UPU's Strategy (2026-2029) and its associated roadmap, the Dubai Business Plan.

The strategy proposes a new vision for the UPU, targeting its role in building a society that is interconnected, inclusive and sustainable, empowered by a seamless, innovative postal network. Its strategic three strategic goals focus on building a cohesive global postal network through rules-based multilateral cooperation, advancing innovation and partnerships to modernize postal services, and promoting development via stronger regional cooperation and technical assistance.

The Dubai Business Plan translates the strategic goals for 2026 to 2029 into actionable, results-focused work proposals with targeted activities and measurable outcomes. Work proposals discussed included focused action on postal network digitalization, cybersecurity, postal policy and regulation, development cooperation and more.

The Congress reviewed three interconnected plans - the Integrated Product Plan (IPP), the Integrated Remuneration Plan (IRP) and the Integrated Quality of Service Plan (IQP) - that will modernize postal products and services, agreed costs for international delivery, and service quality in line with the expectations of consumers and e-commerce platforms.

Member countries reaffirmed their support for the role of sustainability in the development of postal services - including those focused on energy resilience, the empowerment of women and social services - in keeping the network competitive.

There was also a push for increased regional presence of the UPU to support the development of the network across all countries, leaving none behind in the sector's evolution.

Continued financial support

In a moment in which much of the UN system is facing financial constraints and implementing efficiency measures, the UPU's member countries supported maintaining the exceptional budgetary ceiling increase adopted at the UPU's 2023 Extraordinary Congress for the 2026-2029 period.

For photos of the Congress, please visit the UPU's Flickr account here.