Have you packed your luggage custom dubai

Clothing formula: 4 short-sleeve shirts in breathable fabrics (linen or technical polyester), 2 long-sleeve shirts for air-conditioned interiors and mosque visits, 2 lightweight trousers, 1 pair of jeans, 1 unlined blazer or smart jacket for upscale restaurants, 3 swim garments, 7 pairs of underwear and 5 pairs of socks. Limit footwear to 1 pair of closed shoes, 1 pair of sandals, 1 pair of lightweight walking trainers – footwear should occupy no more than 30% of bag volume.

Climate specifics: daytime averages range ~22–28°C in cooler months and 35–42°C in peak summer; relative humidity spikes June–September. Prioritize fabric weight (grams per square meter): shirts 100–160 gsm, trousers 120–200 gsm. Roll garments to save space; compress bulky knitwear into vacuum cubes only if returning in cooler season.

Electronics and documents: power standard 230 V / 50 Hz, plug type G – carry a universal adapter plus a multiport USB charger. Powerbank limit for cabin carriage: keep under 100 Wh without airline approval; label capacity in Wh. Keep passport, visa pages, printed hotel reservations and international health certificates in a waterproof document sleeve. Store prescription medicines in original containers accompanied by a physician statement and international generic names.

Border rules and prohibited items: declare cash or negotiable instruments exceeding AED 100,000 (approx. USD 27,200). Narcotics and psychotropic substances without official documentation are forbidden; undeclared controlled pharmaceuticals risk seizure. Avoid transporting battery-powered e-cigarette liquids in checked bags; place them in carry-on only and consult the airline for liquid limits.

Security and weight control: use a rigid case with internal organizer, a combination lock approved by major security agencies, and a luggage scale to target 1–1.5 kg margin below airline free-allowance. Photograph contents and tag bags with an external information card (name, local contact) and an internal duplicate to speed recovery in case of mishandling.

Baggage preparation for UAE border control

Declare cash amounts exceeding AED 100,000 to UAE border control immediately; undeclared sums risk seizure and monetary penalties.

Tobacco and alcohol limits: duty-free allowance is 400 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 500 g tobacco. Non‑Muslim passengers may import up to 4 litres of alcoholic beverages for personal consumption; larger volumes must be declared and may incur duty.

Prescription drugs must remain in original packaging with a copy of the prescription or medical letter in English showing medication name, dosage, patient name and prescribing physician contact details. Controlled substances (for example, tramadol, certain opioids and benzodiazepines) require prior written approval from UAE health authorities – secure permits before departure.

Lithium batteries and power banks: all spares must travel in hand baggage, protected against short-circuit (tape terminals or original packaging). Batteries ≤100 Wh allowed without airline approval; batteries 100–160 Wh require carrier consent. Never place spare lithium batteries in checked baggage.

Food, plants and animal products: fresh meat, dairy, seeds, live plants and soil require import permits or are prohibited. Declare all agricultural items on arrival; undeclared goods will be seized and penalties applied.

New electronics, commercial samples and multiple identical items trigger commercial-import scrutiny. Keep invoices or receipts handy for items likely to exceed personal-use appearance; clearly separate used personal items from boxed new units to reduce the chance of duty assessment.

Keep high‑value articles (jewellery, cameras, tablets), passports and medical prescriptions in carry‑on. Photograph valuables and save digital copies of travel documents and prescriptions to cloud storage accessible during inspection.

At arrival, proceed through the green channel only if nothing requires declaration; otherwise select the red channel and present documents. Cooperate with border officers and carry declaration forms or e-declaration confirmation where applicable.

Declare cash over AED 100,000 (≈ USD 27,200) and any restricted or commercial goods on arrival; complete the arrival declaration form at an airport kiosk or via the official online portal before passport control.

Which items require declaration

Cash and negotiable instruments: all currency, traveller’s cheques or bearer negotiable instruments equal to or above AED 100,000 must be declared with amount and currency shown on the form.

Controlled medicines: prescription drugs containing narcotics or psychotropics need a doctor’s prescription and a medical certificate; bring original prescriptions and declare them at the desk.

Prohibited and restricted goods: narcotics (strictly banned), pornographic material, pork and pork products, unlicensed firearms, explosives, and items requiring import permits (certain surveillance equipment, encrypted radios, drones). Declare any item that might fall into these categories to avoid seizure or prosecution.

Commercial consignments and samples: goods intended for sale, trade samples, professional equipment and items sent on behalf of a business must be declared with invoices, HS codes if available, and country of origin.

High-value personal items: jewellery, cameras, laptops and new items without clear proof of prior export should be declared if there’s reasonable doubt about personal-use status; retain receipts. Small accessories like a best small sturdy umbrella or a best inexpensive travel backpack generally do not require declaration unless purchased recently and of significant value.

How to complete the arrival declaration form

Obtain the form onboard, at arrival kiosks, or via the official arrival-declaration web portal. Use the passport number and flight information printed on the form to avoid processing delays.

Enter full name as in passport, nationality, passport number, flight number, and the arrival address within the country. For each declared item provide a brief description, quantity, country of origin, and the total value in AED (attach invoices or receipts when available).

Tick the appropriate boxes for categories (cash, medicines, restricted goods, commercial goods). Sign and date the form; retain the stamped copy handed back after officer review. If directed to the red channel / inspection desk, present declared items and supporting documents for verification and payment of any duties determined by the officer.

Keep all receipts and the stamped declaration during the entire stay; those documents speed up resolution if questions arise at exit or during later checks. When in doubt about permit requirements for equipment (drones, radios, weapons, specialised medical supplies), obtain the relevant import permit before travel and declare the permit reference on the form.

Which medications need prescriptions, documentation, or prior approval for UAE entry?

Obtain prior authorization from UAE health authorities for any medicine that contains narcotics, psychotropic agents, benzodiazepines, stimulants, opioids, pregabalin, codeine, anabolic steroids or any product derived from cannabis; carry original prescriptions and a treating physician’s letter and apply through the Ministry of Health & Prevention (MOHAP) portal at least 7–14 days before arrival.

• Common regulated categories and examples (generic names):
  • Opioids and analgesics: morphine, oxycodone, tramadol, codeine-containing syrups.
  • Benzodiazepines and sedatives: diazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam, lorazepam, temazepam.
  • Stimulants and ADHD medicines: methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamine salts, dextroamphetamine.
  • Anticonvulsants/neuropathic pain agents under control: pregabalin (Lyrica) in several cases.
  • Sleep medicines with central action: zolpidem and similar hypnotics (where regulated).
  • Anabolic agents and growth hormones: testosterone derivatives, anabolic steroids, HGH.
  • All cannabis-related products (CBD, THC) and recreational/psychedelic substances: strictly prohibited.
• Documentation checklist for entry and permit applications:
  • Original prescription on clinic/hospital letterhead in English or Arabic showing generic drug names, dosage, frequency and total quantity.
  • Doctor’s letter describing diagnosis, clinical necessity, duration of treatment and contact details for verification.
  • Copy of passport ID page and travel itinerary (flight number and arrival date).
  • Photograph of medication in original packaging with patient name and pharmacy label where available.
  • Completed online permit application through MOHAP for narcotics/psychotropic drugs; attach the above documents.
• Quantities and timing:
  • Typical allowance for personal use commonly ranges up to 30–90 days when properly documented; controlled substances require a permit regardless of amount.
  • Permit processing can take from several days to a few weeks; submit the application at least 7–14 days before travel and earlier for complex cases.
• Special handling for injectables and syringes:
  • Include a physician’s letter stating medical necessity for injectable drugs and list of required sharps; keep needles in original packaging and carry the letter together with the medication.
• Prohibitions and enforcement risks:
  • Possession of recreational drugs, cannabis-derived products or unapproved controlled substances can lead to detention, fines and prosecution.
  • Imported supplements that contain banned ingredients (steroids, stimulant analogues, pseudoephedrine in some formulations) may be seized and can cause legal consequences.
• Practical steps before travel:
  1. Identify all medicines containing controlled substances by generic name.
  2. Request a doctor’s letter and original prescriptions; ask the clinic to spell out chemical/generic names and total quantity required for the trip.
  3. Apply for MOHAP import/permit for restricted medicines and save printed approval or electronic reference to present at entry.
  4. Keep medications in original packaging, carry a copy of the permit and medical letter in carry-on baggage, and carry only the minimum quantity needed for the stay.

For borderline products or uncommon compounds, consult the UAE embassy or MOHAP medicines control unit before departure to obtain explicit guidance and avoid denial of entry or seizure.

What food, plant and animal products are allowed in checked and carry‑on?

Only commercially sealed, shelf‑stable food items in original packaging are permitted in both checked and carry‑on; fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, raw meat, unprocessed dairy, live plants, bulbs and most seeds are restricted or require prior import permits and phytosanitary or veterinary certificates.

CLEARED ITEMS: Canned foods, vacuum‑sealed snacks, confectionery, biscuits, dried fruit, nuts, tea, coffee, powdered milk, commercially packaged sauces and hard cheeses in factory‑sealed packaging are generally accepted for personal use. Large quantities intended for resale or distribution may be refused.

BABY AND MEDICAL FOODS: Infant formula, baby food and medically prescribed dietary products may exceed cabin liquid limits but must be presented separately at security screening and accompanied by supporting documentation where available (prescription, medical letter). Screening determines admissibility.

PET FOOD AND LIVE ANIMALS: Sealed commercial pet food for companion animals is usually allowed in checked or carry‑on. Transport of live animals requires an import permit from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, a valid veterinary health certificate, proof of required vaccinations and prior airline approval; quarantine can be imposed.

PLANTS, SEEDS AND SOIL: Live plants, cuttings, bulbs, seeds for sowing and items containing soil require a phytosanitary certificate and an import permit; many propagative materials without paperwork will be refused entry and destroyed or returned.

ANIMAL PRODUCTS & PROTECTED SPECIES: Meat, poultry, eggs and most dairy products demand veterinary export certificates and import authorization; some are prohibited. Products from protected species (ivory, certain hides, corals) require CITES permits or face seizure and legal penalties.

CABIN LIQUIDS RULES: Soups, sauces, yogurts and other liquid or gel foods count toward the 100 ml per container cabin limit and must fit within a single transparent 1‑litre bag. Exceptions apply for infant food and essential medicines presented for inspection.

DOCUMENTS AND PREPARATION: Retain original packaging, ingredient labels and purchase receipts; carry any required phytosanitary, veterinary or CITES certificates. For borderline items, obtain written import guidance or a permit from UAE authorities or confirm with the airline prior to travel to prevent seizure and fines.

Alcohol, tobacco and gifts – clear limits for entry into the UAE

Non-Muslim passengers aged 21 and over may bring in up to 4 litres of alcoholic beverages duty‑free. Tobacco allowance is 400 cigarettes OR 50 cigars OR 500 g of other tobacco products. Personal gifts and non-commercial items up to AED 3,000 per person are exempt from duty.

Specific rules and practical points

All arrivals must present purchases and receipts on request to border control if quantities or values approach the allowances. Alcohol should be transported in checked baggage or inside an airport-supplied tamper-evident bag with the receipt visible; sealed retail packaging must remain intact. Tobacco must stay in original packaging. If allowances are exceeded, declaration is mandatory and additional duty/fines will be applied; commercial quantities are not permitted without import license.

If allowances are exceeded

Declare excess items at the red channel on arrival to avoid seizure and fines. Border officers will calculate duty based on type and value; expect confiscation for prohibited goods and heavier penalties for undeclared commercial shipments. Keep receipts, keep bottles sealed, and distribute high-value items across eligible passengers only when purchases are genuinely personal.

How to organize receipts, serial numbers and packaging for electronics to speed up inspections?

Attach a single transparent sleeve to the main carry-on containing original receipts, one printed inventory sheet and photos of serial numbers; keep identical searchable PDF copies offline on a phone plus a cloud backup.

1. Inventory sheet (one-page):

   • Columns: Item #, Brand, Model, Serial/IMEI, Purchase date (YYYY-MM-DD), Price (currency), Receipt filename, Box present (Y/N).
   • Print on A4; laminate or insert into a plastic sleeve; place first in the sleeve attached to the bag exterior.

2. Digital copies and filenames:

   • Scan receipts at 300 dpi; save as PDF. Example filename: 2025-03-14_Apple_iPhone13_SN356789_receipt.pdf.
   • Create a single PDF manifest with thumbnails of each device and clickable links to full receipts.
   • Store three accessible locations: phone local storage (offline), cloud (shared link), email to self with manifest in the subject line.

3. Photographing serials and IMEIs:

   • Capture close-up photos of serials on device chassis, inside battery compartment (if applicable), on original box and on the receipt next to the serial for cross-verification.
   • For phones, capture IMEI by dialing *#06# and screenshot or photograph the number on screen; for laptops run system commands:
   • Windows: open CMD and run: wmic bios get serialnumber
   • macOS: in Terminal run: system_profiler SPHardwareDataType | grep "Serial"
   • Linux: run: sudo dmidecode -s system-serial-number
   • Include a timestamped screenshot of system About pages where serials appear.

4. Boxing and labels:

   • Keep original boxes when feasible; place device inside anti‑static bag, then into original box.
   • Apply a printed inventory sticker to each box with Item # and a short serial (last 6 digits) for quick visual checks.
   • Use tamper-evident tape across box seams; note tamper status on the inventory sheet.

5. Inspection-ready layout:

   • Place devices likely to be inspected (phones, tablets, cameras) in the carry-on top layer for rapid access.
   • Keep the printed receipt sleeve on the bag exterior or in a quick-access pocket labelled “DOCUMENTS”.
   • Power on at least one device per brand so serials can be displayed on screen if requested.

6. Spreadsheet + QR code:

   • Create a simple spreadsheet (CSV/XLSX) with the inventory data and export as PDF.
   • Generate a QR code that links to the manifest cloud folder; print and affix near the inventory sleeve for rapid officer access.

7. Receipts: what to keep:

   • Original receipt showing seller name, address, transaction date, item description and price.
   • Warranty card or invoice that includes serial; if the receipt lacks serial, place a photo of serial next to the receipt when scanning.

8. Compression and file size:

   • Limit each PDF to under 5 MB when possible; use lossless compression for receipts and higher-res images for serials.
   • Keep master copies uncompressed in cloud and carry compressed copies on the device for quick sharing.

9. Multiple items strategy:

   • Number items sequentially (Item 1, Item 2…) and reference Item # on all digital filenames, printed receipts and box labels.
   • For large electronics sets, prepare a condensed two-column printout for inspectors showing Item # and serial only for ultra-fast verification.

10. Final checks before departure:

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    • Verify all serial photos match receipt serials; check manifest totals equal physical count.
    • Confirm at least one offline copy is accessible from the phone without internet.

For related preparatory tips for transporting animal equipment or hygiene between trips see how to clean a feral cat.