Avoid surprises at the airport - These items Indian travellers can’t bring on flightsLast updated: August 03, 2026 | 08:283 MIN READHeading to the UAE from India? Know exactly which foods and medications are not allowed before you pack.ShutterstockDubai: When travelling to the UAE or to any other country, it is important to check the list of restricted or banned items before you start packing. Like other countries, the UAE has regulations on what can and cannot be brought in, including certain foods, vapes, e-cigarettes, and medication.In addition, airlines and aviation authorities in the UAE enforce strict rules on carrying batteries, power banks, drones, and flammable items, as these are considered safety hazards and are severely restricted.For many Indian expatriates returning to the UAE after the summer break, or visitors travelling from India to the UAE, it is common to bring home-made or locally sourced delicacies. However, Indian airlines must follow the guidelines issued by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), meaning that some items are restricted and, in some cases, banned.While certain goods may be permitted in checked baggage, they may not be allowed in your carry-on luggage. Some of these items are restricted because they have a high oil content or are easily combustible in the air.Food items banned or restricted on flights from India to the UAECopra (dried coconut) – ProhibitedCoconut crushed (dry coconut) – ProhibitedAll spices in powder/physical form, including chilli – Carry-on: No Check-in: YesCoconut – Carry-on: No, Check-in: YesCoconut crushed (green tissue) – Allowed in both carry-on and check-inGhee (clarified butter) / cooking oil – Allowed in both. Note: Allowed in cabin baggage as per LAG restrictions; in checked baggage, the quantity is limited to 5 kg/l per passenger.Pickle – Allowed in both. Note: Chilli pickle is only allowed in checked-in baggage.Personal food can be brought into the UAE’s borders, but there are restrictions on certain types and quantities. According to Dubai Customs, items such as paan (betel leaves) or cooked food items are not allowed into the UAE.Other restricted itemsIn addition to food and medication restrictions, Indian travellers flying to the UAE should also be aware that certain items are prohibited or restricted in baggage, including:Poppy seedsCricket bats, skateboards and fishing rodsMeasuring tapesToy guns and imitation weaponsBows and arrowsWeapons and weapon replicasKnives with blades measuring 6 cm or longerExplosives and ammunition, including fireworks and firecrackersMedication rules for travellers from India to the UAECheck with your doctor to confirm whether your prescribed medication is controlled. You must also carry the prescription for the quantity of medicine you are bringing into the UAE.For all other medication (prescriptions for uncontrolled medication and over-the-counter medicines), prior approval from MoHAP is not required.Travellers to the UAE are strongly advised to familiarise themselves with what medications they can and cannot bring into the country. Contact the nearest UAE embassy or consulate for advice if you are considering taking medications or other drugs into the UAE. Narcotic drugs and illegal substancesTravellers should not attempt to carry any narcotic or psychotropic substances unless they have the required approvals for authorised medical use. The UAE has strict regulations on controlled substances, and certain medicines containing controlled ingredients require prior approval before travel.Important note: This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your airline before travelling if you are unsure about carrying certain items or medication, as customs and aviation regulations can be updated at any time.This article was published on August 08, 2025 and has been updated since.Also In This PackageRelated Topics:Get Updates on Topics You ChooseUp Next