Complete Guide to Prohibited and Restricted Items in Dubai: What You Can and Cannot Import

Dubai Customs serves as the frontline entry point for all goods entering the emirate, with advanced electronic systems to protect society and the economy from illegitimate trade. Understanding prohibited and restricted items is essential for anyone importing or exporting through Dubai.

Key Definitions

Prohibited Goods: Items whose import or export is completely forbidden under the Common Customs Law or any other applicable UAE regulation. These cannot enter or leave the country under any circumstances without special authorization.

Example: Narcotics of all types are prohibited and not allowed into the country.

Restricted Goods: Items whose import or export is controlled and requires approval from the competent authority before release. These goods may enter the country but only with proper documentation and permissions.

Example: Medications are restricted goods and cannot be released without approval from the relevant health authority.

Goods Subject to Procedures: Items that must be inspected by relevant authorities to ensure they meet importing or exporting conditions before release.

Example: Foodstuffs need to be checked by Dubai Municipality before release.

Controlling Authorities: Government bodies entitled to make decisions on prohibiting, restricting, or releasing imported, exported, or transiting goods.

General Provisions

Prohibited goods may be imported or exported only if approved by relevant authorities in specific circumstances.

Restricted goods require approval from relevant authorities and cannot be released without showing proper documentation.

Prohibited and restricted goods without approval are impounded, and legal procedures are initiated accordingly.

Goods requiring standardization or lab testing cannot be released until authorities provide approval. A pledge may be required from the owner not to use goods before official approvals are issued.

Lists of prohibited and restricted goods can be amended following changes in authorities' legislation and policies.

Controlling Authorities

Federal Authorities:

Ministry of Health and Prevention - Medical products, pharmaceuticals, health equipment

Ministry of Climate Change and Environment - Environmental products, wildlife, plants

Ministry of Interior - Security-related items, certain technologies

Ministry of Defence - Military equipment, defense materials

Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation - Nuclear materials and equipment

Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) - Communication devices, wireless equipment

National Media Council - Media products, publications, content

Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology - Product standards compliance

Kimberley Process Office - Rough diamonds certification

Coast Guard - Maritime security items

Local Authorities in Dubai:

Dubai Police - Security items, controlled substances

Dubai Municipality - Foodstuffs, cosmetics, chemicals

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority - Aviation-related items

Categories of Prohibited and Restricted Items

Live Animals, Plants, Pesticides and Fertilizers: Require permits from environmental authorities. Endangered species are strictly controlled under CITES conventions.

Weaponry, Ammunition and Fireworks: Strictly controlled by Ministry of Interior and Dubai Police. Requires special permits for any import or export.

Medications and Medical Equipment: Controlled by Ministry of Health and Prevention. Personal medications require prescriptions; commercial imports need proper licensing.

Media Products and Printed Materials: Subject to National Media Council review for content compliance with UAE cultural and legal standards.

Nuclear Products: Strictly regulated by Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation. Special international protocols apply.

Vehicle Tyres: New tyres must meet UAE specifications and standards.

E-Cigarettes and Electronic Hookah: Regulated products requiring proper approvals and compliance with health regulations.

Wireless Communication Devices: Must be approved by TRA to ensure frequency compatibility and security standards.

Alcoholic Drinks: Restricted to licensed importers and establishments. Personal import limits apply for passengers.

Foodstuff, Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Subject to Dubai Municipality inspection and approval for health and safety compliance.

Chemicals: Controlled based on type and intended use. Hazardous materials require special handling and permits.

Rough Diamonds: Subject to Kimberley Process certification to prevent conflict diamond trade.

Role of Customs Tariff and HS Code

The Tariff and Origin Department manages commodity description and coding using the Harmonized System (HS) Code. This standardized classification:

Enables risk management and control of prohibited and restricted goods

Ties all commodities to the unified customs tariff

Makes identification and access easier for clearance purposes

Ensures compliance with international trade standards

Legal Framework

Under Article 24 of the GCC Unified Customs Law, Dubai Customs prevents entry and exit of prohibited items, and restricts entry and exit of controlled items without official approval from relevant authorities.

For inquiries about specific items, Dubai Customs provides online services to check prohibited and restricted status and request customs opinions before shipping.