Drug possession law in the UAE is among the strictest worldwide. Dubai enforces a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, applying severe penalties such as heavy fines, imprisonment, deportation, and entry bans.
Under Federal Decree-Law No. (30) of 2021, possession for personal use can lead to at least 3 months in prison or a fine starting at AED 20,000, while repeat offenders face harsher punishments.
For non-resident foreigners, Cabinet Resolution No. (43) of 2024 imposes fines between AED 5,000 and AED 100,000, with deportation and re-entry bans depending on the number of offenses.
Contact our expert lawyers in the UAE. Click the WhatsApp icon below.
Table of Contents
Penalties for Drug Possession in Dubai and Legal Help
Dubai’s strict enforcement means that anyone caught with narcotics faces punishment, regardless of quantity.
People often ask: What does UAE law actually say about drug possession? The answer lies in clear sentencing rules for personal use.
- First-time possession for personal use – at least 3 months imprisonment or a fine of AED 20,000–100,000.
- Second offense (within 3 years) – 6 months to 2 years imprisonment or fines of AED 30,000–100,000.
- Third offense or more – minimum 2 years imprisonment with fines starting at AED 100,000.
These escalating penalties show the UAE’s determination to discourage repeat offenses.
Another common concern is: how is Dubai’s zero-tolerance policy applied in possession cases? The approach is uncompromising, especially for foreigners entering the country.
- Strict inspections at airports, seaports, and land borders – even small amounts of narcotics can trigger penalties.
- First-time foreign offenders – fined AED 5,000–20,000, payment required before re-entry is allowed.
- Second-time offenders – fined AED 10,000–30,000, deported, and banned for 3 years.
- Third-time offenders – fined AED 50,000–100,000, deported, and placed on a permanent entry ban list.
A key issue is: what severe penalties exist specifically for possession? While trafficking has its own laws, possession alone carries strict outcomes.
- Possession in unauthorized circumstances – imprisonment from 3 months to 2 years, depending on repetition.
- Possession of controlled substances by foreigners – in addition to fines, offenders face mandatory deportation.
- Failure to pay fines results in being permanently banned from re-entering the UAE.
- Repeat offenders – lose the chance of alternative sentencing, like rehabilitation.
Another important question is: what imprisonment terms apply under Dubai law for possession? The law is very clear on this.
- Personal use (first-time offense) – minimum of 3 months in prison.
- Second offense – between 6 months and 2 years imprisonment.
- Third offense or more – at least 2 years imprisonment.
- For foreigners, imprisonment is often followed by deportation.
Our law firm provides specialized legal defense services in drug possession cases in Dubai, ensuring that justice is served, rights are protected, and all proceedings are handled in alignment with UAE law.
Our services include:
- Court Representation – defending clients in possession and personal use cases.
- Rehabilitation Applications – petitioning for rehabilitation instead of imprisonment where legally possible.
- Appeals and Fine Reduction – challenging verdicts and negotiating lower penalties.
- Deportation Defense – assisting with deportation appeals and applications for exemption from entry bans.
Learn more:
- Our lawyers in Dubai.
- Legal Practice: Criminal Lawyer in Dubai.
- Legal services: Criminal Legal Consultation in Dubai.
- Best criminal lawyer in Dubai.
- Drug Crime Defense Lawyer in Dubai, UAE.
FAQs about Drug Possession in Dubai
Contact our advocates in the UAE for professional help. Click the WhatsApp icon below.
UAE Advocator Editorial is a team of qualified legal graduates specializing in UAE law and regulations. They provide expert, clear, and up-to-date legal analysis, insights, and commentary tailored for legal professionals, businesses, and individuals navigating the UAE’s complex legal landscape. As a trusted source for accurate and reliable information, UAE Advocator helps readers stay informed on the UAE’s latest legal developments, legislation, and court rulings.