Travelling In The UAE? Rules For Carrying Cash, Jewellery & Prohibited Items

Coming to Dubai for the first time can be a very exciting experience. There is so much to do and see while you’re here, but the last thing you want is to be stopped at the airport for a violation(s) when you’re already so close to your dream vacation. Don’t let your lack of knowledge of UAE travel rules ruin your holiday. Come with me as I break down everything you need to know about travelling in and out of the UAE with cash, jewellery, prohibited items and other valuables.

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Declare Your Valuables At DXB

If you’re carrying more than AED 60,000 in cash or an equivalent amount in other currencies, financial instruments, precious metals (Gold and Silver included), or valuable stones (any form of jewellery included), you must declare it. This declaration can be made to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security (ICP) either through their official website or the Afseh app, available on Google Play and the App Store. As for travellers under 18, the cash they bring into UAE will be added to the limit of the parent or guardian accompanying them.

Penalties For Non-Compliance

Failing to declare these amounts, concealing information, or providing incorrect details can result in imprisonment, a fine, or both. Additionally, the court may order the seizure of any undeclared funds.

Also read: Emirates Announces Complimentary 5-star Hotel Stays For Travellers 

Prohibited & Restricted Items

It’s important to know what items are prohibited or restricted when travelling to the UAE. Prohibited items include:

• Narcotics
• Gambling tools
• Nylon fishing nets
• Live pigs
• Raw ivory
• Laser pens with red light packaging
• Fake currency
• Contaminated substances
• Offensive publications or drawings
• Paan substances, betel
• Publications contradicting Islamic teachings
• Black magic items

For a more detailed list, visit the official Dubai Customs website and here as well.

Limits On Gifts & Consumables

When bringing in gifts, their total value should not exceed AED 3,000. You can bring up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 500 grams of tobacco products. Alcoholic beverages are limited to 4 litres or 2 cartons of beer (24 cans per carton). However, these limits strictly do not apply to travellers under 18, as they cannot travel with alcohol.

Also read: 3 Key Changes Made For Divorced Parents In Dubai Who Want To Travel With Their Kids

Duty-Free Items

Certain items can be brought into the UAE without paying customs duties. These include:

• Telescopes
• Movie projectors
• Radios
• CD players
• Video and digital cameras
• Portable music instruments
• Personal sports equipment
• Portable computers
• Strollers
• Wheelchairs
• Medication for personal use
• Personal Jewellery

Final Tips

Knowing these regulations can help ensure a smooth and trouble-free travel experience in and out of the UAE. Be prepared, declare your valuables, and familiarise yourself with the rules to avoid any penalties. Safe travels!

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