Melatonin → United Arab Emirates

Regulated medicine. Personal import requires original packaging and ideally a prescription.

Details

Melatonin is regulated as a medicine in the UAE and is not available over the counter without a prescription in many UAE pharmacies. Travellers may bring melatonin for personal use but should carry it in original packaging with clear dosage labelling. A prescription or doctor's letter is strongly recommended. The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) does not list melatonin as a controlled narcotic, so it does not require a special MOHAP permit — but as a regulated health product, undeclared quantities may be queried at customs. Large quantities may be treated as commercial importation and subjected to health product import regulations.

Quantity limit

Personal use quantities; typically up to 3 months' supply

Documentation required

• Prescription or doctor's letter recommended
• Original pharmacy packaging

Legal reference

UAE Federal Law No. 4 of 1983 on the Pharmaceutical Profession; MOHAP Health Products Regulations

Transit

Transit permitted. Melatonin restrictions in the UAE apply to commercial import and retail sale. Transit passengers carrying personal-use quantities (typically ≤ 30-day supply) in original packaging and remaining airside at DXB are not subject to UAE import restrictions.

Leaving with this item

Melatonin supplements may be exported from United Arab Emirates freely as a dietary supplement.

Practical advice

Keep melatonin in its original blister pack or bottle. Carry a letter from your GP or pharmacy. Avoid bringing unusually large quantities.

Customs authority

Federal Customs Authority (FCA) · https://www.fca.gov.ae