ORANJESTAD, Aruba — The Aruba Customs Building in Barcadera is nearing completion after a project process that stretches back approximately 10 years, with delivery of the new three-level facility now expected in December 2026 if construction continues according to plan.
Recent images of the project show that much of the exterior work has already been completed, marking significant progress for a facility that has faced numerous delays and challenges since planning began in 2016.
The new building will eventually provide Aruba Customs with a permanent modern facility after years of working through different stages of relocation and construction planning.
Aruba Customs Building Project Began in 2016
Planning and administrative work for the Aruba Customs Building began in 2016.
However, the project encountered several obstacles that repeatedly delayed its execution.
During this period, Aruba Customs also had to leave its previous building near Da De Drogist and relocate operations to a temporary facility in Bushiri near the WVB Boulevard.
Progress toward construction accelerated in December 2024 after the necessary government procedures and assessments moved forward.
With assistance involving DOW, DIP, Aruba Customs and DWJZ, an agreement with the contractor could ultimately be signed for construction of the new facility.
The project received the necessary positive advice for development of a three-level building in Barcadera.
Construction Now Nearing Completion
Work on the facility has advanced considerably since construction began.
The latest view of the site indicates that much of the building’s exterior is now finished, bringing Aruba Customs closer to moving into its long-awaited permanent home.
Earlier in 2026, Customs officials had indicated that the building could potentially be ready between September and October after earlier construction delays.
The latest information now points to December 2026 as the expected delivery period, provided the remaining work proceeds without further setbacks.
This revised timeline makes the latest development an important update to earlier projections surrounding the project.
New Facility to Support Customs Operations
The Aruba Customs Building is intended to provide the department with a more appropriate and permanent environment for its operations.
Previous information from Aruba Customs indicated that bringing various divisions together in a modern facility is expected to improve coordination, working conditions and services.
The Barcadera project is therefore more than a change of location. It represents a long-term investment in the infrastructure used by one of Aruba’s key government departments.
After years of planning, administrative procedures, temporary accommodation and construction delays, the project is now entering its final stages.
If the latest schedule remains on track, Aruba Customs could receive the new three-level facility in December 2026, bringing the approximately decade-long development process significantly closer to completion.
