Prohibited Items & Dangerous Goods Policy

Our policy aims to ensure the safety of all customers & passengers and the aircraft itself by strictly prohibiting the transportation of certain items that may pose risks or cause harm. Prior to your travel, we strongly recommend familiarizing yourself with our Prohibited Items & Dangerous Goods Policy to avoid any inconveniences.

Please be aware that in addition to the regulations set by the UAE, the acceptance of certain items such as alcohol, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, perfumes, electronics, and medication, whether in the cabin or checked-in baggage, may be subject to specific customs regulations and security checks in your country of departure or arrival.

 

Forbidden Items    

Forbidden items are articles or substances that can endanger the safety of passengers or aircraft. It is strictly prohibited to bring these items on board. For a comprehensive list of forbidden items, please refer to the tables below. It's important to note that local government restrictions may apply, so we advise checking with the authorities of your departure and destination country.

Some Airlines may prohibit the transportation of smart balance wheels, even with the lithium batteries removed, whether as checked-in or carry-on baggage.

Banned substances in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a zero-tolerance, strict anti-drug policy. All airports in the UAE conduct thorough searches using highly sensitive equipment. Travelers entering or transiting the UAE are subject to punishment for possessing any amounts of illegal drugs.

Bringing medication into the UAE

If you are carrying controlled medication into the UAE, you must apply for approval through the Ministry of Health (MoH) website. It is important to consult your doctor to determine if your prescribed medication is considered controlled. For controlled medication, you must carry the prescription and the quantity should not exceed a 3-month supply. Other medications, including prescription for uncontrolled medication and over-the-counter medication, do not require prior approval from MoH.

For more details please visit the Ministry of Health and Prevention website (Opens an external website in a new tab)

 

 

Before you leave for the airport

We strongly advise travelers to the UAE to familiarize themselves with the regulations regarding the transportation of medications. If you are considering taking medications or other drugs into the UAE, please contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the United Arab Emirates for advice. A list of United Arab Emirates consulates can be found on their official website.

 

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages containing more than 24% but not exceeding 70% alcohol by volume, in retail packaging, with a total net quantity of 5 L per person, are allowed in both carry-on and     checked-in baggage.

Drones

For safety reasons, drones are not allowed as cabin baggage but can be accepted as checked-in baggage. However, please note that drones are not permitted on flights to Jordan. If you have a drone in your checked-in baggage on other flights, you will be required to secure the lithium batteries within the drone or remove the batteries and carry them in your cabin baggage.

 

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes and similar devices containing batteries must be individually protected to prevent accidental activation. They are allowed in carry-on baggage but not in checked-in baggage.

 

Batteries and battery-powered devices

Spare batteries, including lithium metal or lithium-ion cells or batteries, for portable electronic devices must be carried in carry-on baggage only. Power banks and other devices primarily used as power sources are considered spare batteries. Each passenger is limited to a maximum of 20 spare batteries.

Certain lithium batteries with specific watt-hour ratings or lithium content require prior approval and should be carried in carry-on baggage only. Please refer to our guidelines or contact us for more information.

Lithium Batteries: Portable electronic devices

Passengers are allowed to carry portable electronic devices containing lithium metal or lithium-ion cells or batteries, such as cameras, mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, for personal use. Certain restrictions apply to the lithium metal content and watt-hour ratings. Each passenger is limited to a maximum of 15 personal electronic devices.

Lithium Batteries: Security type equipment

Security-type equipment containing lithium batteries can only be accepted with prior approval from Group Security.

Smart baggage with removable batteries

Smart bags are allowed in the cabin if the battery is removable and within the size and weight limits for cabin baggage. The battery must be turned off completely. If the battery is not removable or the smart bag exceeds the size/weight limitations, it cannot be carried on some airlines flight.

 

Battery-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids

Battery-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids have specific requirements depending on the type of battery used. Some may require prior approval. We recommend making advance arrangements with your airlines for a smooth travel experience.

Mobility Aids: Spillable 

Battery-powered wheelchairs or similar mobility devices with spillable batteries or lithium batteries can be transported if they can be loaded, stowed, secured, and unloaded in an upright position. In such cases, the battery should remain installed in the wheelchair, with the battery terminals protected to prevent short circuits. The battery must also be securely attached to the wheelchair or mobility aid. Additional restrictions apply to lithium batteries, and it is advisable to make advance arrangements with the Airlines as approval is needed.

Mobility Aids: Collapsible Lithium-ion Batteries Mobility Aids: 

Battery-powered mobility aids equipped with collapsible lithium-ion batteries. The lithium-ion battery must be removed and carried in the cabin. For wheelchairs, the batteries should not exceed 300 watt hours, or for devices requiring two batteries, each battery must not exceed 160 watt hours. An additional spare battery, not exceeding 300 watt hours, or two spare batteries, each not exceeding 160 watt hours, can be carried in the cabin.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Personal Motorized Vehicles 

For safety reasons, personal motorized vehicles such as hoverboards, mini-Segways, and self-balancing wheels are not allowed on our flights. Some airlines prohibits the transportation of these devices, regardless of whether they have batteries, as checked or carry-on baggage. This policy remains in effect even if you are connecting from an airline that permits them.

All Forbidden

Compressed Gas Cartridges, Cylinders, and Aerosols 

Avalanche Rescue Backpack Each person is allowed to carry one avalanche rescue backpack containing a cartridge of compressed gas (Division 2.2). The backpack may also have a pyrotechnic trigger mechanism containing no more than 200 milligrams net of Division 1.4S. The backpack must be packed in a way that prevents accidental activation, and the airbags within the backpack must have pressure relief valves.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Gas Cartridges, Small, Non-flammable 

Small gas cartridges containing carbon dioxide or another suitable gas (Division 2.2) can be carried in a self-inflating safety device like a lifejacket or vest. Each customer is limited to one device and can carry up to two spare small cartridges. For other devices, up to four cartridges with a water capacity of 50 milliliters or less are allowed per person.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Hair Curlers Containing Hydrocarbon Gas 

Customers and crew members are permitted to carry up to one hair curler containing hydrocarbon gas. The safety cover must be securely fitted over the heating element. These hair curlers should not be used onboard the aircraft. Gas refills for such curlers are not allowed in checked or carry-on baggage.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on YES Check-in YES

Non-flammable, Non-toxic Aerosols in Division 2.2 

Non-flammable, non-toxic aerosols in Division 2.2 without any subsidiary risk can be carried in checked baggage for sporting or home use. The total net quantity of non-radioactive medicinal or toiletry articles and non-flammable, non-toxic aerosols must not exceed 2 kilograms or 2 liters. The net quantity of each single article should not exceed 0.5 kilograms or 0.5 liters. Aerosol release valves must be protected to prevent accidental release.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on NO Check-in YES

Fuel and Fuel Cartridges 

Camping Stoves and Fuel Containers Camping stoves and fuel containers that have previously contained flammable liquid fuel can be carried if the fuel tank and/or container has been completely drained of all liquid fuel and rendered safe.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Fuel Cells 

Fuel cells containing fuel and powering portable electronic devices such as cameras, cellular phones, laptop computers, and camcorders can be carried in the cabin.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on YES Check-in NO

Fuel Cell Cartridges 

Spare fuel cell cartridges for portable electronic devices can be carried in the cabin.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on YES Check-in YES

Internal Combustion or Fuel Cell Engines

Internal combustion or fuel cell engines must meet the requirements of IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Special Provision A70, which states that the engine must be free of any fuel used for power.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on NO Check-in YES

 

Medical Items 

Insulated Packaging Containing Refrigerated Liquid Nitrogen Insulated packaging containing refrigerated liquid nitrogen (dry shipper) is allowed if the liquid nitrogen is fully absorbed in a non-dangerous porous material.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on Check-in YES

Oxygen or Air, Gaseous, Cylinders 

Cylinders of oxygen or air, gaseous, required for medical use must not exceed 5 kilograms' gross weight. Note: Liquid oxygen systems are not permitted for transport.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Radioisotopic Cardiac Pacemakers 

Radioisotope cardiac pacemakers or other devices, including those powered by lithium batteries, implanted into or fitted externally to a person, or radiopharmaceuticals contained within a person's body as a result of medical treatment, can be carried in the cabin.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on YES Check-in YES

Specimens, Non-infectious 

Specimens, non-infectious, packed in small quantities of flammable liquid, must comply with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Special Provision A180. For details regarding special packaging requirements for such specimens, refer to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on YES Check-in YES

Thermometer or Barometer, Mercury Filled 

Mercury-filled thermometers or barometers carried by representatives of government weather bureaus or similar official agencies must be packed in strong outer packaging with a sealed inner liner or a bag made of leak-proof and puncture-resistant material impervious to mercury, preventing its escape regardless of the package's orientation.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Thermometer, Medical or Clinical 

Medical or clinical thermometers containing mercury are allowed, with a limit of one per person for personal use, when stored in their protective case.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on NO Check-in YES

Powder-like Substances 

Flights to, from, or through the USA, Australia, and New Zealand are subject to enhanced security screening measures. Powder-like substances in containers equal to or exceeding 350 ml/grams must be checked in and are not permitted in carry-on or cabin baggage. These items will be confiscated at Dubai (DXB), Milan (MXP), and Athens (ATH) based on the last point of departure. Powders under 350 ml/grams may be subject to additional screening. Exemptions apply to baby formula, prescription medicines, and human remains. Powder-like substances purchased in airport duty-free shops must be placed in Sealed Tamper Evident Bags along with proof of purchase.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on NO Check-in YES

Scientific, Professional, and Personal Attaché Cases 

Security-type attaché cases, cash boxes, cash bags, etc., containing dangerous goods such as lithium batteries and/or pyrotechnic material are strictly prohibited, unless authorized by the airline.

All Forbidden

Chemical Agent Monitoring Equipment 

Chemical Agent Monitoring Equipment, including instruments containing radioactive material within the limits specified in IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Table 10.3.C, can be securely packed and carried by staff members of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) on official travel. The equipment must not include lithium batteries.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Dry Ice (Carbon Dioxide, Solid) Dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) can be carried in checked or carry-on baggage when used to pack perishables not subject to these regulations. The quantity of dry ice should not exceed 2.5 kilograms per person, and the baggage or package must allow for the release of carbon dioxide gas. Checked baggage should be labeled as "dry ice" or "carbon dioxide, solid" along with the net weight of dry ice (2.5 kilograms or less).

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

 

 

Heat-Producing Articles

Battery-powered equipment capable of generating extreme heat, such as underwater torches (diving lamps) and soldering irons, can be transported if the heat-producing component of the battery is packed separately to prevent activation during transport. Any removed battery must be protected against short circuits.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Lamps 

Energy-efficient lamps intended for personal or home use and in retail packaging can be carried in both carry-on and checked baggage.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on YES Check-in YES

Matches and Small Cigarette Lighters 

Individuals are allowed to carry one small packet of safety matches or a small cigarette lighter without unabsorbed liquid fuel, except for liquefied gas. These items are intended for personal use and should be carried on the person. Note: "Strike anywhere" matches, "Blue flame," or "Cigar" lighters are prohibited.

All Forbidden

Non-Radioactive 

Medicinal or Toilet Articles Non-radioactive medicinal or toilet articles, including aerosols such as hair sprays, perfumes, colognes, and alcohol-containing medicines, can be carried in both carry-on and checked baggage. The total net quantity of these articles and non-flammable, non-toxic aerosols (Division 2.2) must not exceed 2 kilograms or 2 liters. Each single article should not exceed 0.5 kilograms or 0.5 liters. Release valves on aerosols must be protected to prevent accidental release.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on YES Check-in YES

Permeation Devices 

Permeation devices used for calibrating air quality monitoring equipment must comply with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations Special Provision A41, which specifies packaging requirements.

Depending on Airlines but normally: Carry on NO Check-inYES

Weaponry, Ammunition, and Explosives 

Ammunition Individuals are allowed to carry securely packaged ammunition (cartridges for weapons) in quantities not exceeding 5 kilograms' gross weight per person, for personal use only. Allowances for multiple individuals should not be combined into one or more packages.

Approval is needed from the Airlines.

Disabling Devices Disabling devices, such as mace, pepper spray, or any other irritant or incapacitating substance, are strictly forbidden in both checked and carry-on baggage.  All Forbidden

Electroshock Weapons 

Electroshock weapons (e.g., Tasers) containing dangerous goods such as explosives, compressed gases, lithium batteries, etc., are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage or on the person.

All Forbidden

Items Containing Explosives

 All items containing explosives, including fireworks, Christmas crackers, firecrackers, bottle rockets, poppers, and sparklers, are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage on our flights.

Prohibited Articles by EC Aviation Security 

Passengers and Cabin Baggage - List of Prohibited Articles 

Passengers are not allowed to carry the following articles into security-restricted areas and on board an aircraft:

 (a) Guns, Firearms, and Other Projectile Discharge Devices: Including firearms of all types, toy guns, replicas, compressed air and CO2 guns, signal flare pistols, bows, crossbows, harpoon guns, and slingshots. 

(b) Stunning Devices: Including stun guns, tasers, animal stunners, disabling and incapacitating chemicals, gases, and sprays. 

(c) Objects with Sharp Points or Edges: Including axes, hatchets, cleavers, ice axes, ice picks, razor blades, box cutters, knives with blades over 6 cm, scissors with blades over 6 cm, martial arts equipment, swords, and sabres.

(d) Workmen's Tools: Including crowbars, drills, tools with blades or shafts over 6 cm, saws, blowtorches, bolt guns, and nail guns. 

(e) Blunt Instruments: Including baseball and softball bats, clubs, and batons, martial arts equipment. (f) Explosives and Incendiary Substances and Devices: Including ammunition, blasting caps, detonators and fuses, replica or imitation explosive devices, mines, grenades, fireworks, smoke-generating canisters and cartridges, dynamite, gunpowder, and plastic explosives.

Hold Baggage - List of Prohibited Articles Passengers are not allowed to carry the following articles in their hold baggage: Explosives and Incendiary Substances and Devices: Including ammunition, blasting caps, detonators and fuses, mines, grenades, fireworks, smoke-generating canisters and cartridges, dynamite, gunpowder, and plastic explosives.

 

 

 

Banned and restricted goods UAE

Restricted goods are goods whose import and export is restricted under the same law above and applicable regulations, and they need prior approval from the authorities concerned prior to import or export.

Banned items include, but are not limited to:

• controlled/recreational drugs and narcotic substances
• pirated content
• counterfeit currency
• items used in black magic, witchcraft or sorcery
• publications and artwork that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values
• gambling tools and machines.

 

Restricted items

The following list outlines restricted goods along with their respective controlling authorities:

 

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