UAE MPCI Requirements 2026: New Maritime Cargo Filing Rules From 1 October
From 1 October 2026, new UAE Maritime Pre-load Cargo Information (MPCI) requirements will become mandatory for applicable containerised sea freight shipments moving to or via the UAE.
Does this affect your shipments?
If you import into or export from the UAE by sea, or your cargo transits or transships through a UAE port, the new requirements may apply to your shipment.
The requirement covers:
Certain other containerised maritime movements
Imports into the UAE
Transit cargo moving through the UAE
Transshipment cargo
What do you need to do?
As an importer or exporter, you don’t necessarily need to manage the MPCI filing yourself.
However, you must provide your freight forwarder or shipping line with complete and accurate shipping information within the required documentation deadline.
This may include:
- Shipper and consignee details
- Cargo description
- HS codes, where required
- Container and seal details
- House Bill of Lading information
- Other information required for the MPCI filing
If you are using a House Bill of Lading, additional information may be required to ensure the House Bill is correctly linked to the carrier’s Master Bill.
Why is this important?
MPCI information must be submitted before the cargo is loaded at the relevant overseas port.
Incorrect, incomplete or late information could result in loading delays, cargo holds, additional costs or potential penalties.
The current UAE requirements specify a 24-hour pre-load filing deadline for the lowest-level House Bill filed by a freight forwarder or sub-co-loader.
What should you do now?
If you have UAE-bound or UAE-transiting sea freight planned from 1 October 2026 onwards, please make sure your shipping information is provided to us accurately and within our documentation cut-off.
If you’re unsure whether your shipment is affected by the new UAE MPCI requirements, speak to our team before your cargo is ready to ship.
A little preparation now can help avoid delays when the new requirements come into force.