Posted by Anyone traveling to Dubai should know which items can be brought into the country without any issues – and which are strictly prohibited. The customs and import regulations of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are stricter than in Europe, especially regarding medications, alcohol, food, or electronic devices. Violations can result in severe penalties. This article clearly and understandably explains what you are allowed to bring into Dubai – and where caution is needed.
General customs rules for tourists
The United Arab Emirates have a centrally organized customs system. The same rules apply to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Tourists may bring personal belongings and items for personal use duty-free – as long as they remain within specific allowance limits.
Duty-free allowances (as of 2025)
- Tobacco products: max. 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500 g tobacco
- Alcohol: up to 4 liters of wine, beer, or spirits (18+ only, not for Muslims)
- Perfume: up to 50 ml perfume and 250 ml eau de toilette
- Gifts & souvenirs: total value up to 3,000 AED (≈ €750)
Tip: At the airport (e.g., Dubai International, DXB), there are separate lanes: “Nothing to declare” and “Goods to declare.” If unsure, ask a customs officer in the green lane – false declarations can be expensive.
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What items are not allowed into Dubai?
The list of prohibited items in the UAE is significantly longer than in Europe. Some items that seem harmless to us are strictly forbidden or even punishable by law.
Prohibited & restricted items
| Prohibited / Restricted | Reason / Notes |
|---|---|
| Drugs & narcotics (incl. cannabis, CBD products) | Zero-tolerance policy – even tiny amounts can lead to prison |
| Medications containing codeine, diazepam, tramadol, morphine, etc. | Allowed only with official approval from the Ministry of Health |
| Pornographic material (including digital) | Violates UAE morality laws |
| Books, magazines, or films with political or religious content | May be confiscated upon entry |
| Weapons, knives, pepper spray, tasers | Strictly prohibited (even for self-defense) |
| Drone parts, radios, satellite phones | Partially require special permits |
| Pork products | Not permitted due to religious laws, even in packaged foods |
| E-cigarettes & liquids containing THC or CBD | Prohibited, may result in fines or confiscation |
Important: Even traces of drugs (e.g., on clothing, bags, or hair) can lead to imprisonment in Dubai. Customs inspections are thorough, especially on international flights.
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Electronics, cameras & drones
Mobile phones, laptops, cameras, and power banks may be brought into the UAE without problems. However, some rules apply:
- Drones: Only with permission from the GCAA. Without approval → confiscation.
- Cameras: allowed, but do not photograph military sites, police, or government buildings.
- Power banks: max. 20,000 mAh in hand luggage, never in checked luggage.
Tip: If you bring professional photography or drone equipment, register it online with customs beforehand – this avoids discussions at the airport.
Food & plants
Food can generally be imported if it is industrially packaged, sealed, and for personal use.
Allowed:
- Packaged snacks, sweets, coffee, tea, spices
- Baby food, special dietary foods (with declaration)
Prohibited or restricted:
- Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, or dairy products
- Homemade food, liquids over 100 ml in hand luggage
- Products containing pork (e.g., sausage, salami)
Medications & health products
Many medications are allowed, but some require a doctor’s certificate. Strong painkillers or sleeping pills can cause issues.
If you take medication regularly:
- Bring only the amount you need.
- Carry it in hand luggage – in original packaging.
- Bring an English medical certificate (name, dosage, diagnosis).
An up-to-date list of prohibited substances is available on the UAE Ministry of Health website.
Cash & valuables
You may bring cash or valuables worth up to 60,000 AED (≈ €15,000) duty-free.
Amounts above this must be declared – online or upon entry.
This includes:
- Cash (EUR, USD, AED, etc.)
- Travelers’ checks, precious metals, jewelry, cryptocurrencies
Tip: Declaring is straightforward – honest travelers have no issues. Hiding money can be considered money laundering.
Pets & animal products
Pets may only enter with official permission from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Vaccinations, microchip, and health certificates are mandatory. Animal products (e.g., furs, ivory, turtle shells) are strictly prohibited.
Souvenirs & return travel
When flying back to Germany, EU import regulations apply.
Be careful with:
- Animal products (e.g., camel bone, corals, ivory replicas)
- Counterfeit goods (confiscated at the border)
- Large quantities of alcohol or tobacco
Tip: If unsure, check the Dubai Customs Service – the site has a useful search function.
Airport controls in Dubai
Security checks are friendly but thorough. Bags are often scanned, and random checks are common. Liquids over 100 ml in hand luggage are strictly removed.
For large amounts of alcohol or tobacco, you may be briefly questioned – usually routine.
Important: Drugs, CBD products, and prohibited medications are checked electronically and chemically – there is zero tolerance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I bring alcohol in my checked luggage?
Yes – up to 4 liters per person (18+, non-Muslims). Alcohol must be transported in checked luggage, not hand luggage.
How strict is Dubai customs?
Very professional and polite – but strict. Honest travelers will have no problems. Anyone trying to hide items risks heavy penalties.
Can I bring medication for personal use?
Yes, but only in original packaging, and controlled substances require a medical certificate. When in doubt, check with MOHAP beforehand.
Are there duty-free limits on arrival?
Yes, for alcohol, tobacco, and gifts. Exceeding the limits results in customs fees or confiscation.
Conclusion – enter Dubai relaxed and well-prepared
With a little preparation, entering Dubai is straightforward. Customs regulations are clear: alcohol and tobacco in moderation, medication with documentation, no drugs or pork products. Anyone who follows the rules and declares items honestly will be treated politely at the airport – and can start their holiday stress-free.
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