28 Jul 2026 / United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates – Advance cargo filing requirements for containerized maritime shipments

The UAE National Advance Information Center (NAIC) requires advance submission of cargo information for containerized cargo discharging, transiting, or transshipping in the UAE. The requirement forms part of the UAE Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information (MPCI) program administered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

Under the program, shipping lines, freight forwarders and non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs) must submit shipment information electronically before cargo is loaded at the last foreign port prior to arrival in the UAE. More specifically:

  • Direct bills of lading: filing required 24 hours before loading
  • House bills of lading: filing required 24 hours before loading
  • Master bills of lading: filing required 6 hours before loading

Implications for customers

Customers moving containerized cargo to or through the UAE should ensure that complete shipment information is provided to their logistics service providers befpre vessel loading to support compliance with MPCI filing requirements and minimize the risk of shipment delays.

The UAE National Advance Information Center (NAIC) has extended the grace period for its Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information (MPCI) program until September 30, 2026. According to the notice, MPCI filing remains mandatory during the grace period and shipment information must continue to be submitted in line with program requirements.

Do you have questions? Please get in touch with our UAE offices: Abu Dhabi | Dubai | Fujairah | Ras Al Khaimah | Sharjah

If quoting any content from Hot Port News, please cite GAC Hot Port News as the source.

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