Travel Advice for United Arab Emirates - Is Your Medicine Legal There?

The United Arab Emirates has become a very popular destination in recent times, Dubai in particular, with over one million Brits visiting in 2007.  A sizeable population of British nationals also live there.  Although most people will have no problems, it is important to remember that it is a Muslim country and visitors must educate themselves about the local laws and customs before they set off.  For instance, dress codes should be strictly adhered to, and public displays of affection are taboo (people have been arrested for kissing in public!).  Making rude gestures or swearing can also lead to prosecution.  Needless to say, being drunk in public is a punishable offence as is drinking and driving.  Alcohol is served in licensed clubs and hotels but residents must obtain a license to drink alcohol in their homes. Be careful not to carry any pornographic videos, books or magazines into the country.  The same goes for pork products. 

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy regarding use, possession, smuggling or trafficking of any illegal drugs.  If found carrying even a tiny amount it could lead to a lengthy jail sentence (minimum four years).  Travellers should also be very careful about taking over-the-counter and prescription drugs into the country.  Some medicines which are freely available here or commonly prescribed in the UK are viewed as controlled substances there.  Visitors should check with their doctor or pharmacy or check their medications against a list of medicines which might cause problems entering the UAE. 

Visit our Travel Guide section for the United Arab Emirates .  It contains a link to the Foreign Office where complete information regarding local laws and customs and useful links regarding taking medicines into the country and lists of approved medicines can be found.   Also, never leave for a trip without travel insurance!  Obtain a quote here. 

This entry was posted on Friday, July 11th, 2008 at 8:33 am and is filed under Holiday Destinations, Travel News .

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