UAE Imposes Rules For Travelers Carrying $16,000 Worth Of Valuables [NEWS]

• New customs regulation in the UAE requires travelers to declare valuables over 60,000 dirhams (approx. $16,300) online.
• Applies to travelers entering or exiting through Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah.
• Aimed at enhancing border security and preventing illegal financial activities.

Travelers entering or exiting the United Arab Emirates via Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah who are carrying valuables worth more than 60,000 dirhams (approximately $16,300) must now declare these items online before their journey. This new customs regulation aims to strengthen border security and combat illegal financial activities.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security introduced the rule, which applies to individuals aged 18 and above transporting cash, jewelry, precious stones, or other valuable goods. For travelers under 18, a parent or guardian is required to submit the declaration.

How it works

Instead of completing physical forms upon arrival at the airport, travelers must use the Afseh digital platform to submit their declaration in advance. This pre-screening approach allows customs officials to review and approve the information before travelers reach the checkpoints.

This declaration service is free and accessible via the Afseh app or the website declare.customs.ae, with authentication through the UAE Pass system.

Travelers need to provide contact details, travel plans, and a detailed list of the items they carry, specifying cash amounts and currency types. They may also be asked to upload supporting documents, such as receipts for luxury purchases. Once approved, the clearance status is visible under the “Approved Requests” section of the user’s account, with notifications sent through text messages and app alerts.

Important details

The current regulation is in effect at Abu Dhabi International Airport, Sharjah International Airport, and Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, with intentions to expand to other entry points. Authorities emphasize that this measure helps prevent money laundering, restrict the smuggling of expensive goods, and monitor substantial cross-border financial movements.

Failing to declare valuables exceeding the 60,000-dirham limit can result in confiscation, fines, and even criminal charges. Customs officials stress that lack of awareness about the rule will not exempt travelers from penalties.

Items counted toward the threshold include cash (in any currency), traveler’s checks, gold, diamonds, luxury watches, and other high-value personal items. The total combined value determines whether a declaration is necessary. Passengers simply transiting through the UAE without passing through immigration controls are exempt, but those entering or leaving must comply.

This update aligns with the UAE’s wider strategy to meet international standards for financial transparency. The nation has recently faced increased examination by global regulatory bodies regarding the management of illicit funds, prompting enhanced enforcement at airports and seaports.

Moving the declaration process online is also expected to ease congestion at entry and exit points, allowing smoother and faster processing for travelers while giving customs officers more time to scrutinize high-value declarations.

Authorities encourage all travelers to familiarize themselves with the system before traveling. Although the online declaration only takes a few minutes to complete, doing it beforehand can prevent delays and costly disputes at customs. 

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