Melatonin → United Arab Emirates

Regulated medicine. Personal import requires original packaging and ideally a prescription.

Details

Melatonin is regulated as a medicine in the UAE and is not available over the counter without a prescription in many UAE pharmacies. Travellers may bring melatonin for personal use but should carry it in original packaging with clear dosage labelling. A prescription or doctor's letter is strongly recommended. The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) does not list melatonin as a controlled narcotic, so it does not require a special MOHAP permit — but as a regulated health product, undeclared quantities may be queried at customs. Large quantities may be treated as commercial importation and subjected to health product import regulations.

Quantity limit

Personal use quantities; typically up to 3 months' supply

Documentation required

• Prescription or doctor's letter recommended
• Original pharmacy packaging

Legal reference

UAE Federal Law No. 4 of 1983 on the Pharmaceutical Profession; MOHAP Health Products Regulations

Transit

Transit permitted. Melatonin restrictions in the UAE apply to commercial import and retail sale. Transit passengers carrying personal-use quantities (typically ≤ 30-day supply) in original packaging and remaining airside at DXB are not subject to UAE import restrictions.

Practical advice

Keep melatonin in its original blister pack or bottle. Carry a letter from your GP or pharmacy. Avoid bringing unusually large quantities.

Customs authority

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