United Arab Emirates customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

Arriving travellers in the UAE can bring 1 liter of spirits (or 2 liters of wine/beer) and 200 cigarettes (or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco) duty-free. Pork products and narcotics are strictly prohibited. Cash over AED 60,000 (approx. USD 16,340) must be declared. Personal goods up to AED 3,000 (approx. USD 800) are duty-free. These rules apply in 2026.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 liter of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 2 liters of wine or beer. Traveller must be 18+. Alcohol import is only allowed for non-Muslim adults. Bringing alcohol into the Emirate of Sharjah is completely prohibited.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$16,340
Cash or monetary instruments of AED 60,000 or more (approx. USD 16,340) must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form. This includes banknotes, traveler's cheques, and negotiable instruments.
Goods duty-free
$800
Personal goods and gifts up to AED 3,000 (approx. USD 800) are duty-free. Items exceeding this value are subject to 5% duty plus a 5% municipal tax.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, even for medical use without prior approval)
  • Pork and pork products (including ham, bacon, sausages)
  • Firearms, ammunition, and explosives (unless with a special permit from UAE authorities)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated materials (including DVDs, software, and luxury brand fakes)
  • Items deemed offensive to Islamic morals (e.g., pornographic material, blasphemous literature)
  • Used or second-hand tires (import banned for environmental reasons)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medicines containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, tramadol, diazepam) require a prescription and prior approval from the Ministry of Health
  • Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) require a permit from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters need a license from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA)
  • Live animals (pets) require an import permit, microchip, rabies vaccination, and health certificate
  • Plants, seeds, and agricultural products need a phytosanitary certificate and inspection

Rules worth knowing

Alcohol and Pork Only for Non-Muslims

Alcohol and pork products can only be imported by non-Muslim adults. Customs may ask for proof of religion (e.g., passport indicating non-Muslim). Bringing alcohol into the Emirate of Sharjah is completely prohibited.

Strict Medication Regulations

Many common medications (e.g., codeine-based painkillers, some antidepressants) are controlled substances in the UAE. Travellers must carry a doctor's prescription and a letter from their physician. For Schedule 1 drugs (e.g., morphine, amphetamines), prior approval from the UAE Ministry of Health is mandatory.

E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices

E-cigarettes, vape pens, and e-liquids are legal but must be for personal use only. Import is limited to 200ml of e-liquid. Devices with batteries must be carried in cabin baggage.

Duty-Free Purchases from Arrival Shops

Travellers arriving at UAE airports can buy duty-free goods at the arrival shop, but the total value must not exceed AED 3,000 (USD 800) to avoid duty. Alcohol and tobacco limits still apply.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but only if it is for personal use and you carry a valid prescription. For controlled substances (e.g., codeine, tramadol, diazepam), you must also have a letter from your doctor and may need prior approval from the UAE Ministry of Health. Always check the official list of controlled drugs before travel.
You can bring up to AED 60,000 (or equivalent in any currency, approx. USD 16,340) without declaring. Any amount equal to or above AED 60,000 must be declared on the Customs Declaration Form.
Alcohol: up to 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine/beer is allowed duty-free, but only for non-Muslim adults. Pork products are strictly prohibited. Bringing alcohol into Sharjah is banned entirely.
If the total value of personal goods and gifts exceeds AED 3,000 (USD 800), you will pay 5% customs duty plus a 5% municipal tax on the excess value. For example, if goods are valued at AED 4,000, duty is 5% of AED 1,000 = AED 50, plus AED 50 municipal tax.
Yes, but only with a permit from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). Drones must be registered and cannot be used without a license. Travellers without a permit risk confiscation and fines.
Yes, for personal use. You can bring up to 200ml of e-liquid. Devices with lithium batteries must be in carry-on luggage. Vaping is prohibited in public places in the UAE.

Official source

Federal Customs Authority of the United Arab Emirates

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Federal Customs Authority of the United Arab Emirates before travelling.