Cash / Currency → United Arab Emirates

Must declare cash of AED 60,000 or more (approx. USD 16,300) on arrival.

Details

The UAE requires all travellers to declare cash, bearer negotiable instruments, and gold bullion with a total value of AED 60,000 or more when entering or leaving the country. Declaration is made through the UAE customs authority portal or at customs counters. The UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) monitors large cash movements as part of AML controls. Undeclared funds above the threshold may be seized pending investigation. For sums between AED 60,000–100,000 the penalty is a fine; above AED 100,000 it can result in criminal proceedings.

Quantity limit

No limit; declaration required for AED 60,000+

Documentation required

• UAE Customs Cash Declaration form for AED 60,000+

Legal reference

Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 on Anti-Money Laundering; UAE Customs Implementing Regulations

At the airport

1. If carrying AED 60,000 (approximately USD 16,300) or more in cash or equivalent monetary instruments, you must complete a UAE customs declaration form at DXB or AUH.
2. Approach the Red Channel and present the completed declaration to the customs officer. Be prepared to show the physical cash.
3. If you fail to declare, the full amount may be seized pending investigation under UAE anti-money-laundering law. Cooperate fully and retain your declaration receipt.

Transit

Transit permitted. UAE Central Bank and Dubai Customs rules on cash reporting (AED 60,000 / ~USD 16,000) apply to persons entering the UAE. Airside transit passengers who do not clear immigration are not required to make a UAE cash declaration. Passengers continuing to a final destination outside the UAE keep their cash declarations for that country.

Practical advice

Declare cash at the customs counter before exiting the airport. Retain bank or exchange receipts showing the legitimate source of funds.

Customs authority

Federal Customs Authority (FCA) · https://www.fca.gov.ae