Tramadol (Medication) 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
Controlled — requires MOH pre-approval
Can I bring Tramadol (Medication) into United Arab Emirates?
Controlled — requires MOH pre-approval
3 months supply
- Original prescription
- Doctor's letter
- MOH approval
Required at the destination customs authority
Full details
UAE classifies tramadol as a controlled narcotic under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 on combating narcotics. Personal import by travelers requires prior approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) via the Travellers Medicine Permit system. Carrying tramadol without permission can trigger detention under the Anti-Narcotics Federal Law; undeclared amounts in baggage have led to multi-month detentions.
PENALTIES
- 0
- Imprisonment up to 48 months
- Criminal penalty
Active — Customs actively enforces this rule.
At the airport
- Tramadol is a MOHAP-controlled substance in the UAE. Obtain a MOHAP import permit at mohap.gov.ae before departure (allow 2 weeks). Print the approval.
- At DXB or AUH, approach the customs health/medicines counter in the Red Channel. Present MOHAP permit, original prescription, and medication in original pharmacy packaging.
- Officer will verify and initial your permit. Carry all documents throughout your UAE stay as pharmacies may also require verification before dispensing.
- Without a MOHAP permit, the medication will be confiscated. Request a surrender receipt. If the quantity suggests commercial intent, criminal referral is possible.
Permitted in transit. MOHAP transit policy allows travellers transiting DXB airside to carry a personal supply of tramadol (up to 30 days) with original prescription and pharmacy packaging. A formal MOHAP permit is not required for sterile airside transit; it is required only if entering the UAE.
Apply for MOH approval online at least 2 weeks before travel. Tramadol without approval will be confiscated.
3 months supply
- Original prescription
- Doctor's letter
- MOH approval
UAE Federal Law No. 14 of 1995
This page covers destination customs rules in United Arab Emirates. Whether you can carry tramadol (medication) through security, in carry-on, or in checked baggage depends on airline and screening rules — see air travel rules.
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