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The National reported that the Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information programme which was launched in July 2025 now requires shipping companies and freight forwarders to submit comprehensive cargo details including shipper and consignee information to the National Advance Information Centre before a vessel departs from its loading port. The centre reviews each filing and responds with one of three determinations acceptance a request for further information or a do not load order. This process applies to all containerised cargo destined for transiting through or transshipping via the UAE including freight remaining on board and non-compliance can lead to fines or cargo being rolled to subsequent vessels.
According to The National the programme’s mandatory enforcement was deferred from an original March 31 2026 deadline because of regional conflict involving Iran with the extension to October 1 providing additional preparation time for the industry. Shipping lines are responsible for filing master or direct bills of lading on non-consolidated shipments while freight forwarders and non-vessel operating common carriers must submit house bills of lading for consolidated cargo. Submissions must occur at least 24 hours prior to loading at the last port before reaching UAE waters and must include bill of lading details port itineraries container and seal numbers six-digit HS codes and full identification of all parties involved.
The National Advance Information Centre which was established to improve efficiency and security at the country’s ports borders and free zones said the programme forms part of wider measures to strengthen maritime cargo safety. “These efforts are intended to support secure and efficient cargo movement while facilitating smooth and uninterrupted trade operations” the centre stated. The regulation operates separately from standard customs processes but adds an upstream security screening layer for all relevant shipments.
Emirates News Agency figures show the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade reached AED1.937 trillion in the first half of 2026 representing a 13.1 per cent increase from the same period in 2025. Non-oil exports during that time climbed 23.9 per cent to a record AED452.8 billion with China Switzerland and India listed as the top trading partners. These volumes reflect the scale of maritime traffic moving through hubs such as Jebel Ali that the new programme will now screen systematically.
Industry advisories from carriers including CMA CGM have reminded operators that missing an MPCI reference number or required data fields will result in consignments being held or rolled over to the next available sailing. The National said the initiative aligns with ongoing enhancements to the UAE’s security infrastructure amid heightened regional tensions that previously prompted the implementation delay. Data from the programme is expected to enable earlier risk assessments without disrupting the flow of legitimate trade.
Maersk and other lines outlined in their operational guidelines that the filing portal demands precise vessel voyage information alongside cargo descriptions to ensure compliance from the point of origin. The National reported that the programme’s full activation on October 1 2026 marks the conclusion of a phased rollout that began with voluntary participation in 2025. Authorities will monitor adherence during the initial period to address any operational challenges that arise.
