Upcoming UAE Regulatory Changes 2025: What Shippers Need to Know

From 1 April 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) began enforcing new security requirements under its Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) program. The initiative mandates that detailed shipment data be submitted electronically before air cargo is loaded, a major compliance shift for exporters and logistics providers.

These changes apply to all air freight to, from, or transiting through the UAE, including express parcels and documents. Australian businesses should prepare early to avoid compliance issues or delays. This guide outlines the new requirements and offers practical steps to help you avoid delays, penalties, and supply chain disruptions.

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What Are the 2025 UAE Regulatory Changes?

As of 1 April 2025, the United Arab Emirates introduced new Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) requirements for all air freight shipments. All carriers and express couriers must now submit detailed shipment data to the UAE’s National Advance Information Centre (NAIC) before cargo is loaded at the origin.

Required data includes:

• Full shipper and receiver details
• Clear item descriptions
• At least six-digit Harmonised System (HS) codes

Incomplete or inaccurate data can result in delays, rejections, or added inspections under the “Do Not Load” protocol.

To avoid disruption, Australian exporters and freight forwarders should audit shipping documentation, transition to electronic submission tools, and test for compliance ahead of time.

Why Is the UAE Introducing the PLACI Program?

The UAE introduced the PLACI program to strengthen air cargo security by screening shipments before they leave the country of origin. Early submission gives authorities time to screen high-risk goods and respond before loading.

The National Advance Information Centre (NAIC) uses this data to assess risks at the pre-loading stage, helping streamline responses and minimise disruptions at departure and arrival airports.

This approach aligns with global best practices and follows similar systems already in place across the US and Europe. Early compliance with PLACI is now just as critical as submitting customs documentation, especially for businesses operating in fast-moving or regulated supply chains.

Requirements for Shippers Under the New Regulations

To comply with the UAE PLACI programme, Australian exporters and freight forwarders must submit accurate digital documentation before cargo handover. These rules apply to all air freight shipments to, from, or via the UAE.

Shipper and Receiver Details

• Full names (first and last)
• Contact numbers and email addresses
• Complete addresses including street, suburb, postcode, city, and country
• Avoid missing fields or abbreviations, which can trigger automatic rejections or delays.

Item Descriptions

• Use plain, specific language for each item
• Avoid vague labels such as ‘parts,’ ‘samples,’ or ‘gift’ — they are common causes of rejection.
• Examples: “Ceramic dinner plates, 10-piece set” or “Handwoven wool rug, 2m x 3m” – check our guide to shipping rugs

HS Code Inclusion

• Include the first six digits of the Harmonised System (HS) code for each product
• HS codes help UAE authorities assess security risks and ensure proper classification

Electronic Data Submission

• Use an approved digital platform (e.g., DHL Express Shipping Solutions)
• Data must be submitted electronically in real-time before collection
• Incomplete or incorrect entries may result in customs holds, shipment delays, or rejection

What Happens If You Don’t Comply?

Non-compliance with the UAE PLACI requirements can cause major supply chain disruptions. Suppose key shipment data, such as HS codes or receiver details, is missing or incomplete. In that case, express carriers such as DHL and FedEx may be unable to submit your information for pre-loading clearance.

This can lead to air freight delays, customs holds, rejected shipments, or unexpected re-routing that lead to storage fees and missed delivery windows.

One Australian SME exporting automotive components had multiple shipments held at the airport due to vague product descriptions and missing HS codes. The delay pushed back delivery to their Middle Eastern distributor by over a week, ultimately costing them a cancelled order and financial penalty.

For businesses with strict lead times or international SLAs, even minor documentation gaps can have serious consequences. Staying compliant with PLACI helps protect your timelines, your bottom line, and your customer relationships.

How to Prepare for the UAE PLACI Update

Here's a practical checklist to guide your preparation:

Audit your shipping data templates and processes

Check that shipper and receiver details are complete and consistently formatted: names, contact info, and full addresses (including postcode and suburb).

Verify product descriptions

Use clear, item-specific language for every product. Avoid vague terms like “parts” or “samples.” Example: “Men’s cotton T-shirts, assorted sizes”

Apply the correct HS codes

Include at least the first six digits of the Harmonised System (HS) code for every item to ensure proper classification and security screening.

Digitise your freight documentation process

Move away from paper-based methods. Use digital tools that send shipment data to the UAE’s NAIC in real time.

Test your compliance readiness

Run test submissions through your digital freight system to ensure your data meets PLACI validation standards.

Couriers & Freight offers digital freight solutions that simplify documentation and reduce errors, helping your business stay compliant across international borders.

Final Takeaway: Avoid Delays with Early Preparation

With the UAE’s new PLACI air cargo rules now in place, Australian shippers should review their documentation processes to stay compliant and avoid costly disruptions. Submitting complete, accurate data before pickup is now essential for successful international shipping.

Review your workflows, verify HS codes, and use digital tools that enable seamless data submission to UAE systems.

Couriers & Freight provides expert support and digital freight solutions to help you stay ahead of changing requirements. Explore our international shipping services to keep your cargo moving with confidence.

Stay Compliant with UAE PLACI Regulations

Avoid delays and rejected shipments. Streamline your UAE air freight with digital compliance support from Couriers & Freight.

Get a Quote Now