Web Desk — As the number of tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is increasing every day, it is necessary to know what can be taken to this country, or else the consequences could be dangerous for carrying any prohibited items.

It is important to read the list of banned items before heading to UAE. Also, there are certain items that can be brought in in some quantity within a limit.

List of banned Items

The items, banned in UAE, include controlled/recreational drugs and narcotic substances, frozen poultry and birds, betel leaves (paan), counterfeit/pirated goods and content, indecent and obscene materials, gambling tools and machines, counterfeit currency, items for black magic, sorcery or witchcraft, publications and artwork contradicting or challenging the Islamic teachings and values.

Items that require prior approval in Dubai

Some items that require prior approval include animals, plants, fertilizers, medicines, drugs, medical equipment, media publications, transmission and wireless devices, alcoholic drinks, cosmetics, personal care products for exhibitions, E-cigarettes, and electronic hookah.

Some items are exempted from customs duties and can be carried to UAE. These items include gifts whose value does not exceed Dh3,000, 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 500 grams of tobacco (minced or pressed for pipes or minced/pressed tobacco for smoking, tumbâk (pure tobacco), or hookah molasses), alcoholic beverages not exceeding 4 liters or 2 cartons of beer. Each carton should consist of 24 cans not exceeding 355ml for each can.

It is important to note that passengers aged 18 and above must declare cash/cheques, promissory notes, payment orders, precious metals, or stones with a value exceeding Dh60,000 or equivalent in foreign currencies. For passengers under 18, the amount in their possession will be added to the permitted limit of their parent/guardian or accompanier, KhaleejTimes has reported.

Conditions for exemption?

Not every traveler can have the facility of exemption in UAE. The baggage and gifts must be of a personal nature, not for commercial purposes.

The passenger must not be a frequent visitor who trades in the items in his possession. The passenger should not be a crew member with any airline.

It bears mentioning here that cigarettes and alcoholic beverages are not permitted entry and are not subject to duty exemption for passengers under 18 years of age.

Banned Items at Abu Dhabi International Airport

The items banned at Abu Dhabi International Airport include drugs such as cannabis, opium, firearms, firearms and dangerous weapons, and religious propaganda.

Don’t forget to keep a doctor’s prescription with any medication. Some drugs and medications that may be purchased over the counter in other countries are classified as controlled substances in the UAE and are illegal to possess.