Effective immediately, travelers entering or departing the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah airports must declare any valuables exceeding 60,000 dirhams (approximately $16,300) ahead of their arrival at customs. This new regulation, implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security, is designed to enhance border security and curb illegal financial transactions.
According to the new directive, passengers over the age of 18 carrying items such as cash, jewelry, precious stones, luxury watches, and other high-value goods will be required to submit a declaration online. For minors, a parent or guardian must file the declaration on their behalf.
Streamlined Digital Process for Declaration
Instead of completing paperwork at the airport, travelers can now file their declarations through the Afseh online platform before arriving at customs. This digital shift enables customs officials to review submissions in advance, streamlining the clearance process and reducing congestion at arrival and departure gates.
The service is free of charge and accessible through the Afseh app or the official website, declare.customs.ae. Travelers will be required to log in using the UAE Pass and provide essential details, including their contact information, travel itinerary, and a breakdown of items they are carrying. Supporting documents, such as receipts for luxury items, may also be requested.
Once processed, travelers will be notified of approval, which will appear in the “Approved Requests” section of their online account. Notifications will be sent via text and in-app alerts, ensuring a smooth process upon arrival.
Increased Enforcement and Penalties for Non-Compliance
The UAE is taking a firm stance on non-compliance, with customs authorities warning that failure to declare amounts exceeding the threshold could lead to confiscation, financial penalties, and potential criminal investigation. Customs officials have emphasized that ignorance of the new rule will not serve as a defense.
Items such as cash, traveler’s cheques, gold, and diamonds, as well as luxury watches, count toward the 60,000-dirham threshold. The combined value of these goods is used to determine whether a declaration is required. Passengers merely transiting through the UAE, without passing through passport control, are exempt from the declaration requirement.
A Step Toward Greater Financial Transparency
This new policy reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to comply with global financial transparency standards. The country has faced increasing scrutiny from international financial watchdogs, and customs authorities have been ramping up efforts to monitor and control cross-border financial flows.
With the introduction of this pre-screening declaration process, the UAE aims to ensure that high-value transactions are monitored, helping to prevent money laundering and smuggling while facilitating smoother entry and exit for travelers.
Customs authorities are urging travelers to familiarize themselves with the system prior to their trips. While the declaration process itself is quick and simple, completing it ahead of time could ensure a more efficient and hassle-free customs experience.