As thousands of residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) head to airports this summer, most are aware of the rules for bringing goods into the country. However, far fewer people consider whether medication carried in hand luggage is legal in the destination country.
Restrictions in Different Countries
For some common remedies used in UAE homes, the answer is no. For instance, in Greece, codeine, which is found in several cough and cold preparations, is a controlled substance requiring a prescription in all cases. Consequently, products purchased without a prescription elsewhere may cause issues at customs.
Japan requires travelers to obtain permission for medications containing codeine at least 14 days before travel. Furthermore, some foreign cold remedies are considered raw materials for stimulants due to their content of pseudoephedrine, a standard vasoconstrictor. Having a valid prescription from your home country does not guarantee protection; travelers found with medication prohibited in Japan risk arrest and detention.
Rules in Neighboring States
A similar situation is observed closer to home. Egypt bans Tramadol, imposing penalties ranging from large fines to imprisonment. While Qatar requires a doctor's note even for over-the-counter cold and cough remedies, meaning a week in Doha with an unchecked box of flu tablets could attract customs attention.
For residents holding long-term prescriptions, medications for ADHD, strong painkillers, as well as anxiety or insomnia drugs legally prescribed in UAE hospitals, fall under narcotic lists in many destination countries.
Protection by UAE Prescription
According to legal consultant Ahmed Alzarouni, having a prescription from the UAE often provides protection, but not always absolute. He explained that the strict control exercised by the UAE over the prescription and dispensing of narcotics and psychotropic medications, established by Federal Decree Law No. 30 of 2021 and Federal Decree Law No. 38 of 2024, enhances the credibility of medical documents and facilitates their recognition in many states.
Alzarouni reported that he has not encountered cases where residents faced problems abroad due to medicines bought in UAE pharmacies, attributing this to the regulatory precision.
Limitations and Traveler Responsibility
Nevertheless, this protection has its limits. Since requirements vary depending on the destination, Alzarouni advised travelers to study the rules of the country they are visiting before flying. It is also recommended to carry a prescription and, if necessary, a medical certificate, preferably translated into English or the local language and attested if required by the country's legislation. His clearest warning is that the duty to check the laws of the country lies with the traveler, and ignorance of the law does not exempt one from legal liability.
The rules apply both ways. Residents returning with controlled medications acquired abroad must obtain a personal import permit—a service transferred from the Ministry of Health and Prevention to the Emirates Drug Control Authority on December 29, 2025.
Upon arrival without prior approval, one must use the red customs channel at the airport and declare the medications, presenting the prescription and medical certificate to customs officers. The official list includes over 200 controlled medications, indicating which require permission and which are strictly prohibited.
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