Learn about the new UAE customs declaration rules for 2025 for travelers carrying more than AED 60,000 in cash, jewelry or valuables. Find out who must comply, how to file a declaration online through Afseh, what the penalties are for not declaring, and why legal advice can protect your rights

If you’re flying to or from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah with more than AED 60,000 (around $16,300) in cash, jewelry, or other valuables, there’s a new rule you can’t afford to ignore. The UAE now requires travelers to submit an online customs declaration via the Afseh platform before arriving at the airport.

Read all you need to know about the new UAE airport screening system in this article.

Planning a trip abroad? Choose a reliable health insurance policy on the Visit World portal.

How exactly will customs regulations change in the UAE in 2025?

The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identification, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has introduced a mandatory pre-declaration system for high-value goods.

Previously, travelers could declare items upon arrival at customs. Now, all declarations must be submitted online in advance, allowing authorities to review and approve them before you arrive.

Who will be affected by the new UAE customs declaration rules?

The new UAE customs declaration requirements will apply to the following categories of travelers:

1. Individuals aged 18 and over who are carrying valuables worth more than AED 60,000.

2. Minors under the age of 18 can carry such items, but the declaration must be submitted by a parent or guardian.

What items must be declared under the new UAE customs regulations?

According to current legislation, the categories of goods subject to declaration include:

- Cash and foreign currency.

- Traveler's checks.

- Jewelry, gold, diamonds and precious stones.

- Luxury watches and other valuable personal items.

Where will the new customs declaration system be implemented in the UAE?

The Afseh system is currently active at:

- Abu Dhabi International Airport.

- Sharjah International Airport.

- Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.

Authorities have said that it will soon be rolled out to other airports in the UAE, so frequent travelers should familiarize themselves with the process now.

How to file a customs declaration in the UAE?

Step 1 – Log in to the app

Download the Afseh app (App Store | Google Play) or visit declare.customs.ae.

Use your UAE Pass to log in – your personal details will be automatically filled in.

Step 2 – Add your contact details

Enter your address (UAE residents must use their registered address in the UAE).

Step 3 – Start filling out your declaration

- Indicate whether you are arriving or departing.

- Select the emirate and airport.

- Enter your travel details (date, airline, ticket number, etc.).

Step 4 – Declare your valuables

- Select the type of items (cash, jewelry or a combination of both).

- Provide the exact amounts, currencies and upload documents if required (e.g. receipts).

Step 5 – Submit and Confirm

- You will receive an SMS and an in-app notification.

Once approved, the request will appear on your dashboard under the “Approved Requests” section.

Cost: Free.

Why were the new UAE declaration rules adopted?

This policy is part of the UAE’s broader efforts to:

- Combat money laundering and the illicit movement of cash.

- Prevent the smuggling of valuables.

- Track large cross-border financial flows.

Failure to declare items that exceed the limit can result in confiscation, fines or legal action.

Even if you think you’re within your limit, double-check. Currency fluctuations and the combined value of your personal belongings can quickly lead to exceeding your limit. When in doubt, declare. It’s free, fast and can save you a major headache at the airport.

If you are unsure about your obligations under the new UAE customs declaration rules, or if you are facing fines, confiscations or other legal issues, consulting a qualified lawyer can save you time, money and stress.

Reminder! Migrants living in or planning to move to the UK should know the basics of the local tax system. We have already told you what taxes expats in the UK will pay in 2025: income tax, national insurance, VAT, etc., as well as the current rates and rules for filing declarations.

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