Friday, 18 July 2025

Dubai Airport Customs: What You Must Declare and What You Can Bring Duty-Free

Published: Monday, May 05, 2025
Dubai Airport Customs: What You Must Declare and What You Can Bring Duty-Free

Traveling through Dubai International Airport involves specific customs regulations that travelers must understand to avoid complications. As a major international hub, Dubai has strict rules regarding the declaration of cash and valuables.

This guide outlines the requirements for declaring amounts exceeding Dh60,000, details on duty-free allowances, and exemptions from customs duties. Familiarizing yourself with these regulations can help ensure a smooth journey through the airport.

Cash, Valuables, and Financial Instruments

  • Travelers entering or leaving the UAE with more than AED 60,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies, including financial instruments, precious metals, or stones) must declare these to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security (ICP).
  • Declarations can be made through official channels, such as the ICP website, the Afseh app, or the iDeclare mobile app, which streamlines the process for travelers.

  • For passengers under 18, any cash or valuables are counted towards the accompanying adult’s limit.

Duty-Free Allowances and Exempted Items

Travelers are permitted to bring in certain items without paying customs duties, provided these are for personal use and not in commercial quantities:

Item Category Allowance Limit Notes
Gifts Up to AED 3,000 in value Must be personal, not for resale or commercial use
Tobacco Products 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 500g tobacco Exceeding limits is dutiable; not allowed for those under 18
Alcoholic Beverages Up to 4 litres or 2 cartons of beer (24 cans each, 355ml/can) Not allowed for those under 18; excess will be confiscated
Electronic Smoking Devices For personal use only Includes e-cigarettes, e-hookahs; subject to inspector’s discretion
Personal Belongings Clothes, toiletries, jewellery, cameras, electronics, etc. Must be in reasonable quantities for personal use
Commercial Samples Up to AED 5,000 in value Applies to samples imported into GCC countries
 

Conditions for Duty Exemption

  • Baggage and gifts must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes.
  • The passenger should not be a frequent traveler carrying the same items regularly, nor a crew member or airport staff.

  • Passengers under 18 years cannot bring in tobacco or alcohol duty-free.

Customs Duty Rates

  • Standard customs duty: 5% of the value of goods plus Cost, Freight, and Insurance (CFI).
  • Alcohol: 50% duty.

  • Cigarettes: 100% duty.

  • VAT may also apply to excess or commercial quantities.

Restricted and Banned Items

Dubai has strict rules regarding what can and cannot be brought into the country. Some items require special permits, while others are strictly prohibited.

Restricted Items (Require Permits or Approvals)

Item Type Controlling Authority
Live animals, plants, fertilizers, pesticides Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
Weapons, ammunition, explosives, fireworks Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior
Medicines, drugs, medical equipment Ministry of Health and Prevention
Media publications and products Ministry of Culture and Youth
Nuclear energy products Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation
Transmission/wireless devices Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority
Alcoholic drinks Ministry of Interior/Dubai Police
Cosmetics, e-cigarettes, personal care items Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology
New vehicle tyres Relevant authorities
 

Banned Items

  • Narcotics, controlled drugs, and certain medicines without proper documentation

  • Explosives, fireworks, and ammunition

  • Personal motorised vehicles such as hoverboards and Segways

  • Drones (without permit)

  • Counterfeit money and goods

  • Gambling tools and equipment

  • Food prepared or cooked at home

  • Items offensive to Islamic beliefs, such as certain publications or artworks

  • Crude ivory, rhinoceros horns, and nuclear/radioactive materials

Hand Luggage Restrictions

  • Sharp objects (knives, scissors over 6cm, tools)
  • Flammable liquids, chemicals, and compressed gas cylinders

  • Lithium batteries and more than one lighter

  • Certain electronics and communication devices (may require permits)

Liquid Restrictions

  • Individual containers must not exceed 100ml each

  • Total volume of all liquids in hand luggage must not exceed 1 litre

  • Exceptions: medication, baby milk, and special dietary requirements

Declaration Procedures and Inspection

  • Declarations can be made verbally, in writing, electronically, or by using the green (nothing to declare) or red (items to declare) customs channels.
  • Customs officers may inspect your baggage, collect duties on excess items, or confiscate prohibited goods.

  • Failure to declare required items can result in delays, fines, or legal action.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

  • Use the iDeclare app or official portals to pre-declare valuables and avoid delays.

  • Check the latest updates on banned and restricted items before travel, as regulations can change.

  • Always keep receipts and documentation for high-value items, medicines, or items requiring permits.

Understanding these customs regulations is essential for a hassle-free experience at Dubai International Airport. By declaring the required amounts and adhering to the duty-free limits, travelers can navigate customs smoothly and enjoy their time in the UAE without unnecessary complications. Whether you’re bringing gifts, tobacco, or cash, being informed will help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure compliance with local laws.

India rolls out e-visa for Kuwait from July 14 — 5-year tourist visas now offered

Published: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
India rolls out e-visa for Kuwait from July 14 — 5-year tourist visas now offered

In a landmark move to simplify travel and enhance bilateral relations, Kuwaiti citizens can now apply for Indian e-visas entirely online beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. The announcement was made by Dr. Adarsh Swaika, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, who described the launch as a “qualitative shift” in India-Kuwait engagement.

The new digital platform covers five visa categories: tourism, business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (alternative medicine including yoga and Ayurveda). Applicants no longer need to visit visa centers; all steps including application submission, document upload, and payment are completed online.

Key features of the e-visa system include:

Tourist visas valid for up to five years at a fee of $80
Other visa fees range from $40 to $80 depending on type and duration
Biometric data collection upon arrival at Indian airports
Typical processing time of three to four days, with minor technical issues possible during rollout

Ambassador Swaika emphasized that this initiative responds to a long-standing request from Kuwaiti citizens and reflects the deep historic and cultural ties between the two nations. The move also aligns with India’s broader efforts to modernize consular services and strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people connections in the Gulf region.

The e-visa allows for a variety of short-term activities such as tourism, business meetings, medical treatment (including under Indian traditional medicine systems), attending conferences, and participation in yoga or Ayurveda programs.

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and possess a return or onward ticket. The Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those who prefer traditional processing.

This digital visa rollout is expected to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Kuwait, supporting the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Indian tourism, healthcare, and business opportunities.
For more information and to apply, Kuwaiti citizens can access the official Indian e-visa portal, which provides guidance in both English and Arabic.

This development marks a significant step forward in facilitating seamless cross-border travel and enhancing the longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait.

Riyadh Air Confirms Launch of Boeing 787 Operations

Published: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Riyadh Air Confirms Launch of Boeing 787 Operations

Riyadh Air is ramping up preparations to finally launch its long-awaited Boeing 787 flights, following an extended period on the sidelines. As the calendar moves past the midpoint of 2025, the new Saudi Arabian carrier remains optimistic that it will take to the skies before the year concludes.

If current plans hold, Riyadh Air aims to inaugurate service to two European cities by the end of 2025. This marks the start of a broader expansion strategy, with more global destinations expected to be added as additional 787s and other aircraft join the fleet.

The journey to launch has been anything but smooth for Riyadh Air. Securing an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the General Authority of Civil Aviation in April 2025 was a major milestone, following a rigorous six-month testing campaign. However, the celebration was short-lived: just days after receiving the AOC, the airline announced another postponement, pushing the anticipated first flight to the fourth quarter of 2025.

This latest delay scrapped earlier plans for a Q3 debut. In fact, Riyadh Air’s inaugural flight was originally expected much sooner, but a series of setbacks have kept the airline grounded.

A significant factor behind the repeated delays has been Boeing’s well-publicized delivery challenges. Riyadh Air, like many other airlines worldwide, has struggled to receive new aircraft on schedule. These industry-wide setbacks have forced airlines to reconsider fleet plans, delay retirements of older jets, and, in Riyadh Air’s case, postpone the launch of scheduled passenger operations.

Despite the hurdles, Riyadh Air remains committed to its vision of becoming a major player in international aviation. With regulatory approval secured and preparations underway, the airline is poised to make its long-anticipated debut—pending timely aircraft deliveries and the resolution of industry supply chain issues.
As the end of 2025 approaches, all eyes are on Riyadh Air to see if it can finally turn plans into reality and begin connecting Saudi Arabia to the world.

Qatar Airways launches Privilege Club Pro for faster rewards.

Published: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Qatar Airways launches Privilege Club Pro for faster rewards.

Qatar Airways has introduced Privilege Club Pro, a new subscription service within its loyalty programme that enables members to earn additional Avios and Qpoints each month. This marks the first time a loyalty programme using Avios has launched a subscription model allowing members to collect status points, setting a new standard for boosting rewards and advancing tier status.

Developed in partnership with Points, a Plusgrade company specializing in ancillary revenue solutions, Privilege Club Pro allows members to accelerate their Avios balances. Subscribers can enjoy a range of rewards, such as bidding on exclusive experiences through Privilege Club Collection, booking award seat flights, shopping at Qatar Duty Free, and accessing hundreds of partners worldwide.

Christophe Guittard, Senior Vice President Business-to-Consumer at Qatar Airways, commented, “As a lifestyle loyalty programme, Privilege Club continues to expand the way members engage with their everyday transactions by ensuring steady, predictable progress toward meaningful rewards. Our latest addition, Privilege Club Pro, is a flexible subscription offering that brings members closer to their goals.

 By boosting their monthly Avios and Qpoints balance, members can now plan ahead for their dream trip or elevate their journey with upgrades and exclusive moments at Qatar Duty Free home to one of the most expansive collections of luxury brands in any airport, alongside curated boutiques and world-class dining options. It reflects our continued commitment to rewarding loyalty in more personal, relevant, and exciting ways, and we look forward to welcoming members to this new chapter.”

Members can subscribe to Privilege Club Pro via qatarairways.com or the Qatar Airways app, choosing from monthly or yearly plans across four tiers:

  • Access: 2,500 Avios per month; USD 50/month or USD 500/year
  • Select: 7,500 Avios per month; USD 130/month or USD 1,300/year
  • Exclusive: 15,000 Avios per month; USD 240/month or USD 2,400/year
  • Ultimate: 20,000 Avios and five Qpoints per month; USD 350/month or USD 3,500/year

The Ultimate tier includes Qpoints, which help members maintain or upgrade their loyalty status. The required Qpoints for tier upgrades are as follows: Burgundy to Silver – 150 Qpoints, Silver to Gold – 300 Qpoints, and Gold to Platinum – 600 Qpoints.

Privilege Club members can spend Avios on curated sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and culture packages through Privilege Club Collection, including access to global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, Formula 1, and UEFA Champions League. Travelers passing through Hamad International Airport recently named the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ by Skytrax in 2025 can also redeem Avios at Qatar Duty Free, which features over 200 outlets offering luxury shopping, unique dining, and convenient express shops.

ge Club Pro offers members a flexible and rewarding way to accelerate their travel benefits, providing more opportunities to enjoy exclusive experiences and elevate their loyalty status.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi launches non-stop flights to Sialkot, Pakistan

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Air Arabia Abu Dhabi launches non-stop flights to Sialkot, Pakistan

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is set to launch a new direct flight service connecting Zayed International Airport and Sialkot International Airport in Pakistan, starting July 17, 2025. This exciting development will see the airline operate three weekly flights, enhancing connectivity between the UAE capital and one of Pakistan’s key industrial hubs.

The new route will operate on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with flight 3L 311 departing Abu Dhabi at 1:35 a.m. and arriving in Sialkot at 6:00 a.m. The return flight, 3L 312, will leave Sialkot at 6:50 a.m., landing in Abu Dhabi at 9:20 a.m. This schedule is designed to cater to the growing demand from business travelers and the large expatriate community linking the two regions.

Sialkot, located in the northeast of Punjab province near the Kashmir hills and Chenab River, is renowned as a vital industrial and export center in Pakistan. The new service will expand Air Arabia Abu Dhabi’s footprint in Pakistan beyond its existing routes to Faisalabad and Multan, providing passengers with more options for direct and affordable travel.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi operates a modern fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft, known for their efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline offers value-added services such as free in-flight streaming through ‘SkyTime’ and affordable onboard catering with ‘SkyCafe.’ Additionally, travelers can benefit from the ‘Air Rewards’ loyalty program, allowing them to earn and redeem points.

Tickets for the new Abu Dhabi–Sialkot flights are now available for booking via Air Arabia’s website, call center, and authorized travel agencies, marking a significant boost in air connectivity between the UAE and Pakistan’s thriving industrial regions.

Fly Direct from UAE to Germany for Less Than Dhs800

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
Fly Direct from UAE to Germany for Less Than Dhs800

Air Arabia, one of the UAE’s leading low-cost carriers, is set to launch a new direct route from Sharjah International Airport to Munich, Germany, starting December 15, 2025. This exciting development offers travelers an affordable gateway to one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, with one-way fares starting at just Dhs794 and round-trip tickets from Dhs1,393.

The timing of the launch is perfect for those eager to experience Munich’s famous Christmas markets, historic landmarks, and cultural highlights such as the English Garden, Oktoberfest festivities, and live football matches at the Allianz Arena. Munich, a key economic and cultural hub in southern Germany, is a strategic addition to Air Arabia’s expanding European network, which already includes destinations like Vienna, Athens, Milan Bergamo, Krakow, Warsaw, and Prague.

Air Arabia will operate daily non-stop flights using its modern Airbus A320neo aircraft, known for fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline’s CEO, Adel Al Ali, emphasized that the new route underscores Air Arabia’s commitment to providing affordable, value-driven travel options while supporting long-term growth. He highlighted Munich’s appeal to both business and leisure travelers and expressed enthusiasm about welcoming passengers onboard for a seamless travel experience.

This new service enhances connectivity between the UAE and Germany, complementing existing routes operated by Emirates and Etihad to German cities including Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, and Hamburg. Munich Airport officials have welcomed the route, noting its importance in strengthening ties between the Gulf region and Germany.

Passengers can book their flights through Air Arabia’s website, call center, or travel agencies, and enjoy onboard amenities such as the free SkyTime streaming service and the SkyCafe buy-on-board menu. The launch of the Sharjah–Munich route not only broadens travel choices but also supports tourism, business, and cultural exchange between the two regions, marking a significant milestone in Air Arabia’s European expansion strategy.