UAE Implements Mandatory Maritime Security Regulations to Enhance Cargo Safety

A new regulation affecting shipping companies and freight forwarders operating to and via the UAE has taken effect from October 1, as the country seeks to boost its security systems. The maritime pre-load cargo information (MPCI) programme, which was launched in July last year, applies to all cargo destined for, transiting through, or transhipping via the UAE.

It is being implemented by the National Advance Information Centre (NAIC), which was set up to boost the efficiency and security capabilities of the country's ports, borders, and free zones. The MPCI was originally intended to become mandatory from March 31, but it was pushed back to September 30 due to the Iran war.

Scope of MPCI:

• Import into the UAE
• Transshipment through the UAE
• Transit via the UAE
• Freight remaining on board at UAE ports

“While MPCI filing remains mandatory, certain enforcement measures will continue to be introduced progressively to provide stakeholders with additional time to enhance operational readiness and align their processes with the programme requirements,” NAIC stated in an online update.

How does it work?

Previously, all ships heading to UAE ports were required to submit data regarding the cargo they planned to offload locally at least 48 hours prior to the vessel's arrival. This filing was handled by shipping lines and freight forwarders directly with the customs authorities of the respective port.

Under the new procedure, ship operators and freight forwarders must submit cargo details—including shipper and consignee information—to NAIC before the ship departs from the loading port. The authority will then issue one of three decisions: acceptance (ACT), request for information (RFI), or do not load (DNL). Rejected containers cannot be loaded onto the ship.

Upon arrival at a UAE port, the traditional process of submitting details to local port and customs authorities remains in effect. Filings can be executed through direct integration with NAIC for shipping lines, or via an accredited service provider for all other filers.

“All large logistics service providers have started regular filings,” said Binai Thoppil, chief operating officer of ODeX, an accredited service provider. “The filing process is quite simple and straightforward. All the information is already available with the shipping lines and freight forwarders as part of the bill of lading.”

A bill of lading is a legal carrier-issued document provided to the shipper containing details about the transported goods, origin, destination, shipper, carrier, and consignee.

Why is it being introduced?

The NAIC noted that the initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance security standards, reinforce the safety of maritime cargo, and improve communication with maritime carriers operating through UAE ports. These measures aim to support secure, efficient cargo movement while facilitating uninterrupted trade operations.

The MPCI filing provides enhanced visibility on incoming UAE cargo, which Mr. Thoppil notes will “actually help in better planning overall across the industry.” The program represents a shift toward advance cargo security assessment, allowing authorities to identify and address potential risks before cargo is loaded rather than after arrival.

“Such measures and filings have been in place in the US since 2004 and central and western Europe in the last few years,” Mr. Thoppil added.

What are the penalties?

Failure to comply with MPCI filing requirements, including late submissions, missing data, or incorrect details, “will be considered a violation and may result in fines,” according to NAIC.

Global shippers, including CMA CGM and Maersk, have notified customers regarding the mandatory roll-out of MPCI. “Consignments without an MPCI reference number or without all the rest of the mandatory data may be rolled over to the next vessel,” CMA CGM stated.

Maersk indicated that enforcement responses like RFI and DNL notifications will be introduced through a phased implementation approach. Initial cases of non-compliance will be managed through formal communications and warning notices.

Costs involved

NAIC does not charge filing fees, though third-party service providers may apply charges based on their specific pricing models. Shipping lines and freight forwarders must integrate the filing process into their existing handling and documentation workflows, according to Mr. Thoppil. He added that incremental customer costs remain minimal—amounting to a few dollars compared to thousands in freight costs and cargo value.