The UAE has introduced new travel rules: travelers must declare cash, valuables and restricted items. Find out what you can bring in, what items are prohibited and how to avoid fines

The United Arab Emirates is introducing updated rules for travelers that aim to increase security, transparency and efficiency of customs procedures. The new requirements include the declaration of cash, valuables and items with restricted import or export and apply to citizens of all countries of the world traveling to the country, including representatives of Switzerland, El Salvador and Ukraine.

The Federal Authority for Identification, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICA) emphasizes that compliance with these rules will help avoid troubles at the border and make your trip comfortable and safe.

Read about the new customs rules in the UAE in this article.

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What do you need to declare when entering the UAE?

One of the main innovations is the mandatory declaration of amounts exceeding 60,000 dirhams (approximately 16,000 USD) or the equivalent in another currency.

This rule applies not only to cash, but also to:

- precious metals (gold, silver, etc.),

- precious stones,

- negotiable documents on the applicant.

If you are transporting such valuables, fill out an official customs declaration when entering or leaving the country. Failure to declare may result in fines or confiscation.

The purpose of this step is to prevent money laundering and increase financial transparency at the international level.

Important! The UAE has introduced online declaration for travellers carrying more than AED 60,000 in cash, jewellery or valuables. Read here who must comply, how to submit a declaration online via Afseh and what the fines are for not declaring.

Do you have to declare everything when entering the UAE?

Not everything is subject to declaration. The law allows you to import personal belongings and gifts worth up to AED 3,000, if they are not intended for sale.

These can be souvenirs, small gifts for relatives or clothing for personal use.

But if you often travel with such goods or are engaged in their sale, the exemption does not apply.

Rules for importing tobacco and alcohol into the UAE

Travellers are allowed to import into the UAE:

- Up to 200 cigarettes, or the equivalent amount of tobacco or hookah mixture.

Exceeding this limit will result in customs fees.

Alcoholic beverages are also subject to separate restrictions, so it is worth familiarizing yourself with local rules before traveling to avoid confiscation or a fine.

From August 10, 2025, the UAE is introducing new visas for AI specialists, cruise tourists, gamers and event visitors, as well as tightening rules for business, family visits and freelancers. All current changes are in our guide.

What goods are prohibited from being imported into the UAE?

The UAE has a strict list of prohibited goods that cannot be imported or exported. These include:

- narcotics;

- gaming devices;

- counterfeit money;

- raw ivory;

- used or reconditioned tires;

- radioactive materials;

- red-beam laser pointers;

- printed or visual products that contradict religious or moral values.

These restrictions are aimed at protecting public morality, ecology and national security.

In 2025, the UAE continues to attract freelancers from all over the world thanks to flexible visa solutions, tax benefits and simple legalization of activities. Read here how to get a freelance license in the UAE.

Restricted goods requiring special permission to enter the UAE

Some items can only be imported or exported after obtaining official permission from government authorities. These include:

- Weapons, ammunition, explosives;

- Live animals and plants;

- Pesticides, fertilizers, chemicals;

- Medical drugs and devices;

- Rough diamonds;

- Materials related to nuclear energy.

Permits are issued by the relevant ministries - defense, health, environment, industry, etc. Without approval, importing such goods is considered a violation.

Why are customs regulations important for safe travel in the UAE?

The UAE customs system is not designed to complicate travel, but to protect travelers and the state. Thanks to clear rules, delays, fines and misunderstandings when crossing the border can be avoided.

Such measures help the Emirates maintain its status as one of the safest and most organized tourist destinations in the world.

Read here how to obtain UAE citizenship in 2025: standard paths (birth, marriage, descent, naturalization) and new opportunities for investors and talented specialists.

How to avoid fines when traveling to the UAE?

Before traveling to the UAE, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the updated customs requirements. Remember:

- Declare large amounts of cash and valuables;

- Do not carry prohibited items;

- Check whether a permit is required for individual goods.

By following these simple rules, you can enjoy a stress-free trip, and customs control will be passed quickly and calmly.

The updated customs regulations of the UAE help make travel safe, transparent and comfortable. Declaring cash, valuables and controlled goods, complying with restrictions on tobacco, alcohol and gifts, and obtaining the necessary permits for restricted items - all this ensures that your trip will be without unpleasant surprises.

Remember: knowing and following customs rules is the key to a smooth border crossing and a positive experience while traveling to the UAE.

Want to travel to the UAE easily and without stress? The “Tourist Guide” from Visit World will help you go through the entire process from A to Z:

- step-by-step instructions for applying for a tourist visa;

- rules for filling out the application form and required documents;

- visa fee and application processing times;

- photo example of a tourist visa;

- useful life hacks and tips for a comfortable visit to the country.

With the guide, your trip will be well-planned and safer - enjoy the UAE without unnecessary worries!

We remind you! In 2025, Indonesia launched a new digital portal, All Indonesia, which combines visa applications, customs declarations and medical forms into a single system. This solution greatly simplifies travel, allowing travelers to complete all formalities online in just a few minutes. We have already told you what information is required and where to apply.

Photo – Freepik

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