Restrictions On Carry-On Luggage In Dubai Airport

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a bustling hub in the Middle East, renowned for its luxury and extensive connections. With millions of travellers passing through each year, it’s vital to grasp the restrictions on carry-on luggage in Dubai Airport for a seamless journey.

Understanding your airline’s carry-on restrictions is crucial for stress-free travel. Let us guide you through these regulations, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your journey. Our expertise ensures a seamless experience, helping you avoid last-minute hassles at the airport.

How much does your carry-on luggage weigh?

Carry-on weight impacts your travel – from how easy it is to move around to potential fees. But airlines have different weight limits, so check theirs before you pack to avoid any hassles at the airport. So, here we discuss the different airline policies to handle the restrictions on carry-on luggage in Dubai Airport.

Emirates carry-on luggage allowance

Your allotted carry-on luggage weight will depend on the airline carrier you’re flying with. That said, as a general rule, your main suitcase and carry-on should weigh no more than 32kg combined.

Those flying with Emirates in Economy are allowed to bring a bag or mini suitcase that weighs 7kg. Those in Premium Economy can take up to 10kg and those in First and Business class can take a 7kg carry-on, plus a 7kg briefcase or garment bag.

If you are travelling with extra baggage then read our article on Extra Baggage Charges for International Flights from UAE to avoid any inconvenience and ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Flydubai carry-on luggage allowance

If you’re flying with flydubai in Economy, you can bring one bag weighing up to 7kg and measuring 55 x 38 x 20cm, along with your laptop bag, handbag, or satchel. Business Class travellers can take two bags on the plane weighing up to 14 kg (split into 7 kg each).

British Airways carry-on luggage allowance

Those flying with British Airways out of DXB Airport can take a handbag or laptop bag (up to 23kg) and an additional cabin bag up to 23kg. The bags must fit in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you.

On busy flights, BA might request that you check your carry-on luggage case into the hold.

Carry-on Luggage allowance at DXB Airport
Airlines	Economy Class	Business Class	Measurements
Emirates	7kg 10kg for premium economy class	7kg plus a 7kg briefcase	55 x 38 x 20 cm
flydubai	7kg	14 kg (divided equally into 7 kg each)	55 x 38 x 20cm
British airways	Up to 23 kg	23 kg max	40 x 30 x 15cm
Etihad	7 Kg	12kg	56 x 36 x 23

What items are permissible to include in my carry-on luggage?

When travelling through Dubai Airport, it’s essential to understand Dubai Airport Rules For Luggage. This knowledge ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey, allowing you to pack efficiently while complying with airport regulations. Let’s explore the permissible items for your carry-on luggage at Dubai Airport.

You can take anything in your hand luggage when flying out of DXB except the Dubai airport hand luggage prohibited items.

Clothing
Travel-sized toiletries (in compliance with liquid restrictions)
Electronics (such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones)
Travel documents (passport, tickets, boarding pass)
Wallet or purse with money and cards
Snacks (non-perishable items)
Reading materials (books, magazines)
Medications and medical devices (with prescriptions if necessary)
Travel-sized personal care items (such as hand sanitiser, tissues)
Entertainment devices (headphones, e-readers)

Prohibited carry-on luggage items when flying out of Dubai Airport

Ensuring safety and security within airport premises is paramount, particularly when it comes to carry-on luggage. Dubai Airport, one of the world’s busiest travel hubs, maintains stringent regulations to safeguard passengers and aviation integrity.

Understanding the prohibited items for carry-on luggage is essential for all travellers departing from Dubai Airport.

Weapons for martial arts
Electrical cords (excluding personal chargers)
Restraints
Laser devices
Cords
Lighters
Sporting bats
Measurement tool
Lithium batteries
Portable communication devices
Personal hygiene kits
Adhesive tape for packaging
Sharp implements (such as drills, knives, hammers, nails, screwdrivers)
Cutting tools (with blades exceeding 6 cm)

Permission for liquids

All liquids must be placed in a transparent, resealable bag that accommodates the items and fits inside your carry-on luggage. Clear bags are available free of charge near the security checkpoint at DXB Airport.
Each liquid container should not exceed 100ml, except for baby milk, baby food, or special dietary items, which may be allowed in larger quantities.
These regulations at Dubai Airport do not apply if the liquid falls under the following categories.
Medication
Special dietary needs
Baby milk
There are no restrictions on packing liquids in checked baggage as long as they are securely sealed to prevent spillage. While it’s advisable to pack liquids in clear, resealable plastic bags for convenience, it’s not mandatory.

Restricted Items Requiring Permits

Certain items may necessitate permits or special licenses for entry into Dubai. Below is a compilation of restricted goods at Dubai Airport, along with the respective authorities overseeing them:

Insecticides, fertilizers, and live animals require permits from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
Fireworks, explosives, firearms, and ammunition require permits from the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces.
Medicines, pharmaceuticals, and emergency aid require permits from the Ministry of Health and Prevention.
Telecommunications and digital equipment require permits from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority.
Beauty and personal care items necessitate permits from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.
E-cigarettes and electronic hookah require permits from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.

Restricted Items to Steer Clear off at Dubai Airport

According to the official website of Dubai Customs, the following items are among those prohibited for travellers entering Dubai.

Illegal drugs, including cocaine, hashish, heroin, and hallucinogenic substances.
Goods originating from boycotted countries for sale.
Equipment related to gambling activities.
Tires that are used, refurbished, or have inlays.
Raw ivory or rhinoceros horns.
Materials contaminated by nuclear or radiation.
Artworks, publications, and sculptures that contradict Islamic principles.
Counterfeit currency and duplicates.
Home-cooked or prepared food items.
Personal motorized devices like hoverboards and Segways.
It’s essential to note that carrying prohibited items through Dubai Airport, whether in checked or carry-on luggage, can lead to penalties and legal consequences.

Items Exempt from Customs Regulations

Passengers are allowed to bring the following items into Dubai without being subject to customs duty.

Gifts valued at or below AED 3,000.
A maximum of 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 500 grams of tobacco (minced or pressed), beyond which duties apply.
Up to 4 litres of alcoholic beverages or 2 cartons of beer (each containing 24 cans not exceeding 355ml each).

Banned Items At Dubai Airport: You Should Avoid it.

Goods intended for import from boycotted countries.
Radiation-polluted substances.
Equipment and tools related to gambling.
Used, reconditioned, and inlaid tyres.
Original engravings, prints, lithographs, sculptures, and statues in any material.
Cooked and home-made foods.
Any other goods prohibited for importation under UAE customs laws or other regulations.
Any type of illegal drug, including hashish, cocaine, heroin, poppy seeds, and hallucinogenic pills.
Printed publications, oil paintings, photographs, pictures, cards, books, magazines, stony sculptures, and mannequins that contradict Islamic teachings or decency.
Forged and duplicate currency.
Goods originating from Israel or displaying Israeli trademarks or logos.
Fishing nets with three layers.

Tips for Smooth Passage Through Security

Prepare Your Documents: Have your boarding pass and identification readily accessible for inspection.

Limit Carry-On Items: Pack only essential items in your carry-on luggage to expedite the screening process.

Remove Restricted Items: Take out liquids, gels, and electronics from your bags and place them in separate bins for screening.

Wear Easily Removable Clothing: Opt for shoes and jackets that can be quickly removed and put back on to streamline the security check.

Stay Alert: Pay attention to announcements and follow the directions of security personnel to navigate the checkpoints efficiently.

Keep Valuables Secure: Ensure your belongings are securely stowed in bins and keep an eye on them as they move through the screening machines.

Cooperate with Screening Procedures: Be prepared for additional screening measures if necessary and cooperate with security staff to facilitate the process.

Stay Calm and Patient: Maintain a positive attitude and remain patient throughout the security check to minimize stress and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the carry-on luggage weight limits for different airlines at Dubai Airport?

Emirates allows 7kg for Economy and up to 10kg for Premium Economy, while flydubai permits 7kg for Economy and 14kg (split into 7kg each) for Business Class. British Airways permits up to 23kg for both handbags and cabin bags.

What items are permissible in carry-on luggage at Dubai Airport?

Passengers can bring clothing, toiletries (adhering to liquid restrictions), electronics, travel documents, snacks, reading materials, medications, and personal care items. Prohibited items include weapons, sharp tools, and liquids exceeding 100ml.

Are there any restricted items that require permits to be brought into Dubai?

Yes, items such as insecticides, firearms, medicines, telecommunications equipment, and beauty products may require permits from respective authorities.

What liquids can I carry in my carry-on luggage at Dubai Airport?

Liquids should be placed in transparent, resealable bags not exceeding 100 ml per container. Exceptions apply to baby milk, baby food, and special dietary items.

What items should I avoid bringing to Dubai Airport?

Avoid prohibited items such as illegal drugs, gambling equipment, home-cooked foods, counterfeit currency, and goods from boycotted countries. Additionally, refrain from carrying items contradicting Islamic principles or decency, such as raw ivory and certain publications.