Tramadol (Medication) → 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates

Full details

UAE classifies tramadol as a controlled narcotic under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 on combating narcotics. Personal import by travelers requires prior approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) via the Travellers Medicine Permit system. Carrying tramadol without permission can trigger detention under the Anti-Narcotics Federal Law; undeclared amounts in baggage have led to multi-month detentions.

ENFORCEMENT

Active — Customs actively enforces this rule.

At the airport

1. STEP 1Tramadol is a MOHAP-controlled substance in the UAE. Obtain a MOHAP import permit at mohap.gov.ae before departure (allow 2 weeks). Print the approval.
2. STEP 2At DXB or AUH, approach the customs health/medicines counter in the Red Channel. Present MOHAP permit, original prescription, and medication in original pharmacy packaging.
3. STEP 3Officer will verify and initial your permit. Carry all documents throughout your UAE stay as pharmacies may also require verification before dispensing.
4. STEP 4Without a MOHAP permit, the medication will be confiscated. Request a surrender receipt. If the quantity suggests commercial intent, criminal referral is possible.

Leaving United Arab Emirates with tramadol (medication)

Tramadol is a controlled substance in most jurisdictions. Personal-use quantities accompanied by the prescription and doctor's letter are generally permitted for export under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 on narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Above these limits, a MOHAP controlled-medicines permit is required.

OFFICIAL SOURCES · VERIFIED 2026-07-23