Table of contents

• When Do You Need SIRA Approval for Your Cargo?
• How to Get SIRA’s NOC for Shipments (Re-Export)
• Cost and Timing to Process NOC for Shipments from SIRA
• How to Apply for NOC for Shipments from SIRA
• What Products Require This Certificate?
• Required Documents for NOC for Shipments from SIRA
• What You Need to Know Before You Ship Regulated Goods

SIRA is Security Industry Regulatory Agency is the authority in Dubai that regulates the handling, import, and export of security-sensitive items, including gases and chemicals that could be classified as controlled or hazardous. Without proper SIRA approval your cargo may be held at the port or won’t enter the port, as a result you may face fines. 

SIRA services that directly affect logistics, customs clearance, and cargo movement. If you are shipping items that fall under categories such as CCTV systems, alarm devices, gases, chemicals, or military-grade equipment, SIRA approval is often mandatory for customs clearance.

When Do You Need SIRA Approval for Your Cargo?

For businesses involved in international trade, SIRA issues shipment No Objection Certificates that are required to process the Bill of Entry, whether for import or re-export. This ensures that goods classified as sensitive or controlled do not face delays or rejections at customs checkpoints. Additionally, if the cargo includes hazardous materials like fire suppression gas or explosives, SIRA requires a separate transport request to authorize safe movement within or outside the UAE. These approvals are also necessary when storing such goods in Dubai, as a hazardous material storage permit must be obtained in advance.

SIRA’s scope extends beyond routine cargo. For example, transporting armored vehicles or surveillance systems for display in exhibitions or showrooms also demands certification. In such cases, SIRA provides display permits to regulate and monitor these temporary setups. Companies dealing in fireworks, military hardware, or weapons must go through even stricter approval steps, often involving the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in addition to SIRA.

SIRA also regulates the installation of security systems in buildings, event sites, and commercial spaces. Companies offering technical security services must obtain proper certification before beginning operations. If you're moving sensitive items through ports, storing regulated cargo, or installing licensed equipment, SIRA’s involvement ensures legal compliance and safe handling.

How to Get SIRA’s NOC for Shipments (Re-Export)

This certificate is a legal requirement for a range of high-risk or controlled commodities and must be obtained before your cargo can be cleared through Dubai Customs. Without the NOC, your cargo may be delayed or even rejected at the point of exit. Submitting this certificate along with your customs documents ensures a legally compliant and smooth re-export process.

Cost and Timing to Process NOC for Shipments from SIRA

The service falls under Security Permit Services, with a typical processing time of 2 business days. The total cost is 120 AED, which includes a 100 AED service fee, 10 AED knowledge fee, and 10 AED innovation fee.

How to Apply for NOC for Shipments from SIRA

To apply, businesses must register on the SIRA e-services portal, log in, submit the application for the Shipment NOC Re-export, pay the required fee, and wait for final approval.

What Products Require This Certificate?

The SIRA NOC is mandatory for re-exporting the following materials and goods:

• Chemicals (prohibited or restricted)
• Explosives
• Fireworks
• Signal flares
• Weapons and ammunition
• Air rifles and accessories
• Military equipment
• Armored vehicles
• Other hazardous materials (e.g., aircraft parts, vehicle parts, construction rounds)
• Other dangerous tools (e.g., swords, knives, bows, spears)
• Security equipment and dual-use goods (such as CCTV systems, communication devices, alarm systems)

Required Documents for NOC for Shipments from SIRA

Each category has its own specific set of required documents, such as trade licenses, invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, end-user certificates, and approvals from ministries like Defense, Interior, or Foreign Affairs. In many cases, a transport request must also be submitted, which can be requested directly from SIRA.

What You Need to Know Before You Ship Regulated Goods

Navigating the logistics of importing or exporting sensitive goods in Dubai requires more than just standard customs clearance. If your cargo includes chemicals, security equipment, weapons, military items, or other regulated materials, SIRA (Security Industry Regulatory Agency) approvals are mandatory to ensure full legal compliance.

SIRA oversees a wide range of services tied to shipping and logistics, including shipment NOCs for re-export, hazardous material transport approvals, and storage permits for dangerous or controlled goods. These certificates help prevent customs delays, legal issues, and penalties — and they are essential when dealing with ports, airports, or bonded warehouses in the UAE.

Understanding when and how to obtain these permits is crucial for smooth and compliant trade. Our experienced team supports you through the entire process — from application to final clearance — helping you avoid delays and ship with confidence.