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The National reported that the Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information programme became mandatory for shipping companies and freight forwarders on October 1 as part of efforts to strengthen security across ports, borders and free zones. Launched in July 2025, the initiative applies to all cargo imported into the UAE, transiting through the country, transhipped at its facilities or remaining on board vessels during port calls. The National Advance Information Centre, established to improve efficiency and security capabilities, had deferred the mandatory start from an earlier March target because of regional tensions involving Iran.
According to an NAIC update, operators must provide comprehensive details including shipper and consignee information to the centre before a vessel leaves the loading port. The authority then issues one of three determinations: acceptance, a request for further information or a do-not-load instruction that bars the cargo from being shipped. While the filing requirement is now compulsory, certain enforcement measures will be introduced gradually to give industry participants additional time to align their processes.
Splash247 noted that the pre-load system replaces the previous practice of submitting cargo information to individual port customs authorities at least 48 hours before vessel arrival, although that local requirement remains in effect alongside the new programme. Carriers including CMA CGM have warned that shipments lacking a valid MPCI reference or complete data may be rolled to subsequent sailings at the customer’s expense. Maersk has indicated that requests for information and do-not-load notices will be phased in during initial operations to ease the transition.
In parallel, Dubai Customs issued notice 18 of 2026, effective September 30, that establishes a 30-day window for exporting goods from designated free zones after customs declaration processing. The directive permits goods in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai Logistics City Free Zone and Dubai International Airport Free Zone to move under transit declarations without cash or bank guarantees for duties when exported through the same customs office. Khaleej Times reported that the measure seeks to reduce administrative burdens while ensuring goods are cleared promptly to avoid regulatory action under unified GCC customs law.
Dubai Customs also extended suspended customs duty periods by an additional 60 days for declarations covering imports for re-export, temporary admission and transit that were due to expire after February 27 and up to October 31. The authority stated that the step, which has already assisted more than 6,600 companies in earlier phases, aims to maintain supply chain fluidity and alleviate financial pressures on businesses. Officials directed relevant departments to implement the changes uniformly across affected categories.
The combined regulatory updates arrive as the UAE consolidates its position as a leading regional logistics hub, with the NAIC emphasising data accuracy to support both security objectives and trade facilitation. Accredited third-party providers can assist with filings for a small fee, though no government charge applies directly to the MPCI process. Industry advisories stress that forwarders and lines must now integrate the requirements into documentation cut-offs at least 24 hours before loading at the last foreign port.
