As a leading private security company in Dubai, clients often ask us not only about the safety and security of Dubai, but also about security at Dubai International Airport (DBX). Well, DBX is one of the busiest airports globally and it prioritises the personal security of its passengers and staff with utmost importance. In fact, Dubai Airport is renowned for its stringent security measures which ensure the safety of millions of passengers each year. This world-class airport utilises an intricate blend of human expertise and cutting-edge technology to ensure safety and security. Security personnel are spread across the airport and trained to respond efficiently to threats or emergencies. The airport has state-of-the-art security systems, including the most advanced CCTV surveillance. Moreover, rigorous security checks are implemented with minimal inconvenience to passengers, thanks to the use of innovative technologies like biometric scanning and automatic facial recognition.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Dubai manages the overall safety and security of the airport. Pre-screening takes place in all terminals at the entrance of the airport. Iris scanning has been implemented in all UAE airports. The aim of biometric scanning is to prevent previously deported criminals from returning to the UAE using fraudulent documents. Security measures are subject to frequent audits to ensure their efficacy and to adapt swiftly to evolving security threats.
Although, in 2018, Houthi rebels claimed that they had attacked Dubai International Airport with drones launched from Yemen, the risk of terrorist attack at the airport remains low. Dubai International Airport’s robust security infrastructure aims to safeguard all airport users and maintain a smooth, secure travel experience for everyone.
However, although Dubai welcomes tourists from all parts of the world, it is crucial that visitors respect the local laws and customs. This applies to travellers in transit through DXB as much as tourists entering Dubai. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection and please remember that public alcohol consumption is a punishable offence. You can only buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs. Also, avoid swearing and making rude gestures in public and online. Although instances of being arrested for offending security guards are very rare, they do happen. Westerners should proceed with caution. Do not argue with security guards or raise your voice, and certainly do not touch them.
In order to seamlessly pass security checks, visitors entering Dubai should also have accommodation booked and paid for before arrival and travel with a complete itinerary and a return ticket to their home country.
Airport security guards use highly sensitive equipment to conduct thorough searches on travellers into the UAE. Dubai has an extremely strict stance against illegal drugs. The minimum penalty for personal use is four years imprisonment. The smallest amounts can trigger an arrest, and having drugs in your blood stream or urine counts as “possession”.
In the airport itself, it is strictly prohibited to take photographs or videos for security reasons.
Similar to all countries, the UAE has regulations regarding items that can and cannot be brought into the country. Every traveller must pass through Dubai Customs. Carrying certain items can result in fines, and in severe cases, imprisonment, such as with narcotic drugs. If you have any doubts about specific items, you should declare them upon arrival. Dubai Airport security is especially thorough. So, visitors travelling to the city should be mindful of the items they carry in their luggage.
The above items must be for personal use and not for resale. Also, the passenger should not be a frequent traveller coming in with these goods on a regular basis.
Passengers can bring the following items into Dubai without paying customs duty:
The UAE Federal Customs Authority mentions that the penalty for smuggling could be either fines or imprisonment from 1 month to 3 years, or both fines and prison time, or the confiscation of items and tools used in smuggling, depending on the type of the smuggling crime and smuggled items.
Prohibited goods are any items that cannot be carried in the checked or hold luggage without the approval of the relevant authorities. These include:
This list can be updated occasionally to add or remove items. For the latest information, check the official Dubai Customs website.
For certain categories of items, or depending on quantities, you may have to get permits from specific departments before flying in.
Dubai Airport has some specific baggage rules.
Other bag-related guidelines and laws in Dubai for travellers include the following:
UAE Federal Law No. 4 of 1983 covers the basic requirements for prescribing and supplying prescription medicines, and the UAE government advises tourists to be extra cautious about bringing in certain types of medicines into Dubai. Medicines that are available on prescription or even over the counter in other countries may contain ingredients that are banned in the UAE. So, visitors should apply for an e-Approval for controlled medicines before travelling. Failing to adhere to the regulations could lead to seizure of the medicines or, in the event that they are classified as prohibited, arrest. As an example, consider that Ibuprofen and Panadol, are readily available in the UAE, and you can bring these to and from the Emirates without issue. However, codeine – a common ingredient in pain relief and cold-and-flu medication, is prohibited.
Temporary visitors are allowed to carry up to three months worth of controlled medications. UAE residents are permitted to transport up to twelve month’s supply. However, you have to meet certain criteria: “Passengers should have a prescription from an official hospital or a doctor that clearly mentions the medication and the health status of the passenger. Medications should be kept in their original containers and packaging and expiry dates should be clear on them.” Customs authorities in the UAE regularly update the list of medicines banned in the UAE. so, people visiting Dubai must check the MoHAP website before travelling.
The UAE keeps a close eye on money laundering and suspicious financial activities. As a result, passengers travelling are supposed to declare whether they have large sums with them. Adults over 18 years old may carry a total in cash, travellers cheques and precious jewellery of no more than Dh60,000. Any cash possessed by passengers who are less than 18 years old will be added to what their accompanying guardians carry. You can declare cash and goods easily online. Dubai Customs’ ‘iDeclare’ smart application simplifies the Customs clearance process for passengers by enabling self-declaration of their must-declare commercial goods, personal effects, or cash either pre, or post-arrival at the airport.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a connection-heavy facility, thanks to the strong presence of UAE flag carrier Emirates. Transiting visitors go through security checks of documentation and hand luggage is scanned before they reach the transit hall. Checked baggage also passes security checking and it is directly forwarded to the connecting flight.
Prohibited items apply to passengers in transit, not just those intending to enter Dubai.
The information on this page is based on archives and official websites. Please check with the relevant airport and airline before flying to confirm what is allowed and not.
Westminster Security provides private security services in Dubai and the UAE
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Westminster Security provides private security services in Dubai and the UAE
