Can I bring my prescription medication into the UAE?

Use the Emirates Drug Establishment’s personal medicines guidance to check your medication and any approval requirements. EDE currently describes advance electronic approval as optional for travellers carrying permitted controlled medicines with the required medical documentation, within a maximum three-month personal supply. This is not blanket permission for every drug or quantity; confirm any medicine-specific restrictions with EDE before departure.

Carry the medication in its original labelled packaging, together with a valid prescription and a recent medical report where required. The documents should clearly identify you, the medicine, dose and treatment requirements. Keep essential medication and supporting paperwork in your hand luggage, following airline rules for liquids, needles and temperature-sensitive products.

If you are relocating, arrange a local medical appointment before your supply runs out. Do not assume an overseas prescription can be refilled directly or that the same brand is available.