Drug trafficking is one of the most serious criminal offenses in the United Arab Emirates. It involves the large-scale production, packaging, transportation, and distribution of narcotics, often carried out by organized criminal groups across international borders. The UAE treats such crimes as a grave threat to public health, safety, and morality. As a result, its laws impose some of the harshest penalties in the world—ranging from lengthy prison terms and life sentences to deportation, heavy fines, and even capital punishment in extreme cases.
The UAE Drug Law
The cornerstone of the country’s anti-drug framework is Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances. This legislation sets strict prohibitions and penalties for individuals involved in drug-related offenses. In addition, Cabinet Decision No. 43 of 2024 addresses how non-resident foreigners found with narcotics at UAE ports are to be treated.
Prohibitions and Penalties for Citizens and Residents
Under Article 10, the law forbids importing, exporting, transporting, producing, manufacturing, possessing, or acquiring substances listed in Schedules 1, 2, 4(1), and 5. This includes both synthetic narcotics such as Alfentanil, Cocaine, and Morphine, as well as naturally occurring substances like kava, khat leaves, and ergot. Limited use is allowed only for medical purposes or scientific research with the approval of competent authorities.
The same article also imposes a complete ban—except under very strict authorization—on handling substances listed in Schedules 3, 6, 7, and 8.
Article 14 governs the cultivation and handling of naturally growing narcotic plants such as cannabis, opium, and peyote. These may only be grown, imported, exported, or possessed under specific authorization, and the restrictions cover all stages of growth, including seeds.
Violations of these provisions can result in severe penalties. Articles 57 and 58 state that punishment depends on the quantity of drugs involved, with heavier penalties for trafficking, promotion, or organized criminal activity. In the most serious cases, offenders can face the death penalty.
Abuse of Authority
The law also addresses individuals who misuse their professional privileges. For example, under Article 59, if someone authorized to handle narcotics violates the conditions of that authorization, they face a minimum of five years in prison and a fine of at least AED 100,000. If trafficking is involved, the death penalty may apply.
Travel Restrictions and Asset Seizure
To ensure effective investigations, authorities are empowered to impose travel bans and freeze the assets of offenders. This can even extend to family members if funds or property are believed to be linked to the crime. Judicial warrants issued by the Public Prosecution apply across all emirates if the offense spans multiple regions or involves organized gangs.
Rules for Non-Residents
Non-residents caught at UAE ports with narcotic or psychotropic substances fall under Cabinet Decision No. 43 of 2024. If drugs are found for personal use without authorization, penalties may include fines between AED 10,000 and AED 100,000, deportation, and permanent exclusion from the country. The severity of the punishment depends on the type and amount of the drug as well as whether the person is a repeat offender. Individuals remain on the banned list until all fines are settled.
Conclusion
Over the years, the UAE has introduced changes that slightly relax penalties for personal drug use, but the country continues to take a zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking. The penalties remain among the harshest in the world, underscoring the nation’s commitment to protecting society from the dangers of narcotics.
