The United Arab Emirates has strict medication rules compared to many other destinations. While most everyday medicines are allowed, certain drugs – especially those affecting the central nervous system – are tightly controlled.

If you’re travelling with medication, it’s essential to understand the difference between over-the-counter, prescription, and controlled drugs before you fly.

This guide walks you through exactly what you can bring, how much you can carry, and what paperwork you’ll need.

Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medication

Most over-the-counter medicines are allowed into the UAE for personal use, including:

• Paracetamol and ibuprofen
• Antihistamines
• Basic cold and flu remedies
• Vitamins and supplements

However, this is where people get caught out: some medicines sold OTC in the UK are restricted in the UAE.

Examples to be cautious with include:

• Codeine-containing products
• Strong sleep aids
• Certain decongestants

Limits for Medication in The UAE

• You should only bring a reasonable quantity for personal use
• As a general rule, this means no more than a 3-month supply

What to Bring to The UAE

• Keep everything in original packaging
• Carry a receipt or proof of purchase if possible

If there’s any doubt about an ingredient, check before you travel – it’s not worth guessing.

Prescription Medication

Prescription medication is allowed in the UAE, but you need to be able to prove it’s yours and medically necessary.

What You’ll Need to Bring Prescription Medicine to The UAE

Carry a doctor’s letter that includes:

• Your full name (matching your passport)
• Medication name (brand and generic)
• Dosage and frequency
• The condition it’s prescribed for
• Doctor’s name and contact details

My guide breaks down what to include on a doctors travel letter and includes examples from my previous trips.

Limits for Prescription Medication in The UAE

• You can usually bring up to a 3-month supply of standard prescription medication

Important Tips For Bringing Medication To The UAE

• Always keep medication in your hand luggage
• Keep it in original pharmacy packaging with labels intact
• Avoid mixing pills into organisers when travelling through security

Controlled Medication (Very Important)

This is where UAE rules become much stricter.

Controlled drugs include medications such as:

• ADHD medications (e.g. stimulants)
• Strong painkillers (opioids)
• Benzodiazepines (e.g. diazepam)
• Some sleep medications

These are regulated by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.

You MUST Get Approval Before Travelling To The United Arab Emirates

If your medication is classified as controlled, you need to apply for permission through the MOHAP online system before you travel.

This is often referred to as a medication import permit.

What You’ll Need to Apply For Prior Approval

• Copy of your prescription
• Doctor’s letter (detailed)
• Passport copy
• Travel details

Limits For Visiting The United Arab Emirates

• Controlled medication is typically limited to a maximum of 30 days’ supply

This is stricter than standard prescriptions, and it is enforced.

What Happens if You Don’t Apply?

If you arrive in the UAE with controlled medication and no approval:

• It may be confiscated
• You could face delays, questioning, or legal issues

This isn’t a “they might let it slide” situation – this is one of the countries where rules are actively enforced.

Checking Your Medication Before You Travel

Before flying to the UAE, you should:

• Check if your medication is controlled via MOHAP
• Confirm ingredients (especially for combination drugs)
• Apply for approval if required
• Print all documents and keep digital copies

If you’re unsure, assume you need to check – don’t rely on what’s allowed in the UK.

Arriving in The United Arab Emirates

At the airport:

• You may be asked to declare medication
• Keep all documentation easily accessible
• Be prepared to explain what each medication is for

Most travellers pass through without issue – but the ones who don’t are usually the ones who didn’t prepare paperwork.

Key Takeaways For Bringing Medication To The UAE

• OTC medication is generally allowed, but check ingredients carefully
• Prescription medication is allowed with a doctor’s letter (up to 3 months’ supply)
• Controlled medication requires pre-approval and is limited to 30 days
• Always carry medication in original packaging with documentation

The UAE is not the place to “hope for the best” when travelling with medication.

If you prepare properly, you’ll have no issues.

If you don’t, this is one of the destinations where it can go wrong quickly.

If you’re travelling with anything like ADHD medication, strong pain relief, or sedatives – check it, document it, and get approval before you go.

Continue Planning Your Trip To The UAE With Kids

• Start with planning your overall United Arab Emirates trip with kids, how to get there, where to go and things to do in The UAE

Continue Planning Your Trip As a Traveller With Medication

• Travelling with ADHD? Begin by reading my guide to travelling with ADHD for tips on travelling with medication, how to stay on top of all the documentation you need and more
• Learn what you should include on your travel letter for medication from your doctor
• Finding it hard to pack all of your medicine or medical equipment? Find out more about flying with medical luggage and if you are entitled to extra (free) luggage allowance
• Check out why you should learn important phrases related to your disability before you travel and download the free eBook with accessible travel translations from my guide
• Learn more about the DPNA code and what it means for travellers with hidden disabilities
• Find out more about the Sunflower Lanyard and how it can support ADHD travellers
• Learn more about getting help at the airport as someone with ADHD and how it can support your travel plans
• Find out how to use the PRM Assist app to book special assistance at the airport

Keep Planning Your Next Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

The post Bringing Medication into the UAE: What You Need to Know appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

Travelling through the United Arab Emirates can be much easier when you know where to find the right support. Whether you need wheelchair assistance, hidden disability support, mobility help, a quiet space, or help navigating the airport with an autistic child, many UAE airports offer dedicated services for People of Determination (the UAE’s official term for disabled passengers).

This guide lists the main airports across the UAE, including links to their special assistance, reduced mobility and hidden disability support services where available.

If you are travelling with autism, sensory needs, mobility equipment, a wheelchair, a disability pushchair, or a hidden disability such as anxiety, ADHD or chronic illness, these are the pages you should check before you fly.

What is Airport Special Assistance in the UAE?

Special assistance covers support for passengers who need extra help moving through the airport or boarding their flight.

This can include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Help through check-in, security and passport control
• Priority boarding
• Ambulift boarding for remote stands
• Help with mobility aids or disability pushchairs
• Assistance for hidden disabilities
• Sunflower Lanyard schemes
• Sensory spaces or quiet rooms
• Accessible toilets and changing facilities
• Accessible transport and parking

Most assistance should be requested through your airline at least 48 hours before travel. My guide to getting help at the airport as a disabled person explains exactly what special assistance is and how to get help at the airport when you travel.

UAE Airports Special Assistance Links

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Dubai International is the busiest airport in the UAE and offers extensive support for People of Determination, including visible and non-visible disabilities.

Services include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Priority support from kerb to gate
• Hidden disability support
• Accessible transport and parking
• Accessible toilets, lifts and prayer rooms
• Boarding assistance
• Buggy services
• Special assistance across all terminals

Special assistance page: Dubai Airports Special Assistance

Dubai Airports specifically includes hidden disabilities support and services for non-visible disabilities.

This also covers both DXB and Dubai World Central (DWC / Al Maktoum International below).

Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC)

DWC falls under Dubai Airports and uses the same accessibility and special assistance system as DXB.

Support includes:

• Reduced mobility assistance
• Hidden disability support
• Accessible facilities
• Medical transportation assistance
• Wheelchair services

Special assistance page: DWC Special Assistance via Dubai Airports

Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi (AUH)

Previously known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, Zayed International Airport offers one of the strongest hidden disability programmes in the region.

Services include:

• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Sensory Space
• Special Assistance desks
• Wheelchair support
• Terminal buggy services
• Accessible taxis
• Priority lanes
• Low-level check-in desks
• Ambulift support
• Accessible parking

Sunflower lanyards are available from Special Assistance desks, and the airport launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme in 2024. If you are new to the Sunflower Lanyard scheme, my guide explains what the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard is and how to get one of your own.

Special assistance page: Zayed International Airport Special Assistance

Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)

Sharjah International Airport provides mobility assistance and accessibility services for passengers requiring extra support.

Typical services include:

• Wheelchair support
• Boarding assistance
• Reduced mobility support
• Accessible facilities

Passengers should usually arrange support through their airline when booking.

Airport assistance information page: Sharjah International Airport Special Assistance

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT)

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport supports passengers requiring mobility assistance and wheelchair services.

Support may include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Boarding help
• PRM support
• Accessible access routes

Special assistance information: Ras Al Khaimah International Airport Special Assitance

The special assistance information for Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is extremely limited on their website – but do check it incase they have updated it. I would recommend using their contact information if you have any questions about special assistance services.

Contact information for Ras Al Khaimah International Airport:

Telephone: +971 7 2075200

Email: info@rakairport.com

Fujairah International Airport (FJR)

Fujairah International Airport offers reduced mobility assistance for passengers who request support in advance.

Typical services include:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Boarding support
• Mobility help

Special assistance information: Fujairah International Airport

The special assistance information for Fujairah Airport is on their passenger services page – unfortunately, I cannot actually access the page for some reason but hopefully you can if you need it.

Contact Fujairah International Airport:

Email: info@fia.ae

Telephone: +971 9 2226222

Al Ain International Airport (AAN)

Al Ain International Airport is managed under Abu Dhabi Airports and assistance is typically arranged through airline support.

Airport information: via Abu Dhabi Airports

Which UAE Airport is Best for Hidden Disability Support?

Currently, the strongest hidden disability support is found at:

Zayed International Airport (AUH)

Because it offers:

• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Sensory Space
• trained staff
• dedicated hidden disability recognition

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Because it offers:

• dedicated hidden disability support pages
• support for visible and non-visible disabilities
• priority services for neurodivergent travellers

These are usually the easiest UAE airports for autistic families and passengers with non-visible disabilities.

Tips Before You Fly to The UAE with Autistic Children

Request Assistance Early

Always request support through your airline at least 48 hours before departure. You can also add a booking in the PRM Assist app, but I would recommend doing this as a backup only and making contact with the airline as a priority.

Use the Correct Airline Code

If your child is autistic or has non-visible support needs, ask your airline about adding DPNA or the correct assistance code to your booking. My guide breaks down all the disability codes airlines use, and you can learn more about the DPNA code from my post which details what it is, who it is for and how it should be used.

Bring Supporting Documents

This can include:

• fit to fly letters
• medication letters (learn what to include on a doctors letter in my guide)
• proof for mobility equipment
• EpiPen documentation (learn more about flying with EpiPens from my post)
• disability pushchair confirmation (my disability pushchair tag might come in useful)

Ask About Quiet Spaces

Not every airport advertises sensory spaces clearly, so ask directly.

The UAE has made major improvements for accessible travel, especially for People of Determination and travellers with hidden disabilities.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the strongest airports for autism-friendly and hidden disability support, but all major airports can provide reduced mobility assistance when arranged properly.

Free tourist eSIM

Tourists area able to get a free eSIM when visiting the UAE. I have a seperate guide that explains how it works and how to get a free tourist eSIM in the United Arab Emirates.

Planning ahead makes a huge difference.

If your child struggles with crowds, noise, queues or unexpected changes, using airport special assistance can completely change the travel experience.

If you are planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates, my guide to visiting with autistic children is the best place to start.

Continue Planning Your UAE Trip With Kids

• Choose the right emirate based on your child’s needs
• Use indoor attractions to manage heat and overwhelm
• Plan transport to reduce unpredictability
• Build in downtime between activities

For a full list, check out our United Arab Emirates archives.

Continue Planning Your Middle East Trip With Kids

• Start at the beginning, with my guide to visiting the Middle East with autistic children
• If you need an easier introduction to the Middle East, check out Turkey with kids
• For big city exploration in the Middle East, consider visiting Qatar with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your Trip With Autistic Children

• Find out about the help available if you are travelling through an airport
• Discover whether a cruise with an autistic child would work for your family
• Find out how to make travelling with ADHD manageable
• Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Check out guides to all of the different destinations we have travelled to with autistic children
• Learn step-by-step how to set up the accessibility feature on Google maps
• Learn more about our favourite sensory toys for travelling
• Discover an app that helps you locate a playground anywhere in the world
• Always alerted at the last minute that the little one needs a toilet? Find a toilet anywhere with this app

Continue Planning Your Accessible Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

The post Special Assistance Links For All of The UAE’s Airports appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.

If you’re travelling to the United Arab Emirates, there’s a genuinely useful perk most people don’t realise exists – a free tourist eSIM with around 10GB of data valid for 24 hours.

This is one of the easiest ways to get connected as soon as you land, without needing to find WiFi, queue for a SIM card, or worry about roaming charges.

This guide to the free tourist eSIM in the UAE explains exactly how it works, how to get one, and how to set it up.

What is The UAE Free Tourist eSIM?

The UAE offers a free prepaid tourist eSIM (or SIM) to eligible visitors when they arrive in the country. If you are landing in the UAE and need help getting through the airport then my guide with links to special assistance departments of the UAE airports will help.

Typically, this includes:

• Around 10GB of mobile data
• Valid for 24 hours from activation
• Works on local UAE networks
• Designed to get you online immediately after arrival

It’s essentially a “welcome” data package – enough to book taxis, message family, access tickets, and get through your first day without stress.

Who Provides The Free eSIM?

The main provider is:

• Etisalat (also branded as e&)

In some cases, you may also see similar tourist SIM offers from:

• du

However, Etisalat is the most common provider offering the free tourist data package, especially at major airports.

Where do You Get The Free eSIM?

You’ll usually receive it at major UAE airports, including:

• Dubai International Airport
• Zayed International Airport

There are two common ways it’s issued:

At Immigration (Automatic or Offered)

• Some travellers are automatically issued a SIM/eSIM linked to their passport
• Others may be directed to a kiosk immediately after passport control

At Official Telecom Counters

• Etisalat or du kiosks in arrivals halls
• Staff will scan your passport and issue your eSIM or physical SIM

eSIM vs Physical SIM

You may be offered either:

eSIM (most common now):

• Activated via QR code
• No need to insert anything into your phone
• Faster setup

Physical SIM:

• Insert into your phone manually
• Same data allowance

If your phone supports eSIM, it’s worth choosing that — it’s quicker and easier.

How to Set up The eSIM (QR Code Method)

This is the standard method most travellers will use.

Step-By-Step Tourist eSIM Setup:

1. Connect to airport WiFi
2. Open your phone settings
3. Go to:
   • Mobile Data / Cellular
   • Add eSIM / Add Mobile Plan
4. Scan the QR code provided by Etisalat
5. Follow on-screen prompts
6. Set it as your active data line

Once installed:

• Turn on mobile data
• Enable data roaming (yes, even locally — some phones require this)

You should be connected within minutes.

How to Set up The eSIM Without a QR Code

If you don’t want to scan a QR code (or prefer to do it later), you can usually:

Option 1: Manual Entry

• Enter details manually (provided by the network)
  • SM-DP+ address
  • Activation code

Option 2: Online Activation

Using Etisalat:

• Visit their tourist SIM page
• Enter your passport details
• Follow instructions to download and activate the eSIM

This option is useful if:

• You skipped the airport kiosk
• You want to set it up after arrival
• You lost the QR code

Important Things to Know

It’s Only Valid for 24 Hours

This is the biggest limitation.

After 24 hours:

• Data stops working
• You’ll need to buy a full tourist plan to stay connected

You May Need to Show Your Passport

The SIM/eSIM is linked to your identity, so:

• Passport is required for activation
• Details are registered with the network

Not All Phones Support eSIM

Before relying on this:

• Check your phone supports eSIM
• Make sure it’s unlocked

There are two easy ways to check if your phone will accept the free eSIM in the United Arab Emirates.

1. dial *#06# on your keypad and look for an EID number in the results. If an EID is listed, your phone supports eSIM.
2. Enter your phone model on this eSIM compatibility checker and hit enter.

It’s Not Unlimited

Even though 10GB is generous, it’s still limited:

• Streaming or hotspot use can burn through it quickly

What Happens After The Free 24 Hours?

You can easily upgrade to a paid plan with:

• Etisalat
• du

Tourist plans typically include:

• Larger data allowances
• Local minutes
• Validity from a few days to a month

You can upgrade:

• Online
• Through the app
• At airport or mall kiosks

Is it Worth Using?

Yes – and honestly, there’s no reason not to use it.

This free eSIM:

• Gets you online instantly
• Removes the stress of arrival
• Gives you time to decide on a longer-term plan

For families (especially with kids), it’s one of those small things that makes a big difference — no scrambling for WiFi, no delays, just immediate access to everything you need.

Set it up before you leave the airport.

Trying to do it later – especially with tired kids, no data, and no WiFi – is exactly the kind of avoidable stress you don’t need.

Continue Planning Your UAE Trip With Kids

• Choose the right emirate based on your child’s needs
• Use indoor attractions to manage heat and overwhelm
• Plan transport to reduce unpredictability
• Build in downtime between activities

For a full list, check out our United Arab Emirates archives.

Continue Planning Your Middle East Trip With Kids

• Start at the beginning, with my guide to visiting the Middle East with autistic children
• If you need an easier introduction to the Middle East, check out Turkey with kids
• For big city exploration in the Middle East, consider visiting Qatar with autistic kids

Continue Planning Your Trip With Autistic Children

• Find out about the help available if you are travelling through an airport
• Discover whether a cruise with an autistic child would work for your family
• Find out how to make travelling with ADHD manageable
• Learn more about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard
• Check out guides to all of the different destinations we have travelled to with autistic children
• Learn step-by-step how to set up the accessibility feature on Google maps
• Learn more about our favourite sensory toys for travelling
• Discover an app that helps you locate a playground anywhere in the world
• Always alerted at the last minute that the little one needs a toilet? Find a toilet anywhere with this app

Continue Planning Your Accessible Trip With My Guides

You can click on each image to go directly to the guide for that topic.

The post Free Tourist eSIM in the UAE appeared first on Autism Family Travel Guide.