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Can you take paracetamol to Dubai?

DUBAI is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.

It is important to check up on the country's laws on what medication you can take in before you arrive, so you don't get into a difficult situation.

Dubai has stringent rules when it comes to bringing in medicine from abroad
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Dubai has stringent rules when it comes to bringing in medicine from abroadCredit: Getty

Can you take paracetamol to Dubai? 

Paracetamol is not featured on the Ministry of Health’s list of controlled drugs, so you would be able to take it to Dubai.

You should always carry any medication in its original packaging so it is easily identifiable.

Make sure to only take what is required for your trip.

According to TripAdvisor, paracetamol is readily available in the UAE, so if you don't want to take it in your luggage, you should be able to buy it once there.

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What medicine can you take to Dubai? 

You can take prescribed medication into the country for personal use.

The UAE embassy's advice states: "Up to three months' supply of a prescription item can be brought into the country by a visitor and 12 months' supply by a resident if they can produce a doctor's letter or a copy of the original prescription."

Ensure not to carry too much of the medication, as even if legal, authorities may take action.

Do you need to declare medication in Dubai? 

For narcotic-based, psychotropic, or controlled medicines, you need prior permission.

You will need to fill out a free online form, but this should be approved within a few days.

Codeine is not generally allowed to be taken to Dubai.

However, if completely necessary you may be able to get in touch with the embassy where you can request permission.

When arriving in Dubai, ensure to have a medical report issued less than one year ago by the health facility in which the patient is treated, as well as a copy of the prescription in the name of the patient.

The prescription should include:

  • The patient's full name.
  • The scientific and commercial name of the drug.
  • The pharmaceutical form.
  • The prescribed dose.
  • The date of issuing the prescription.
  • The duration of treatment.
  • The name of the physician.
  • An authenticated certificate or permit from the health authority of the country of departure confirming the patient’s author to possess for personal use or medical preparations.

These may be requested by the authorities so would need to be readily accessible.

The documentation would be needed by customs authorities in the port of entry and would be signed and stamped by the customs officer.

Can you take vitamins to Dubai? 

Yes, vitamins can be brought into the UAE.

You are allowed to bring vitamins and supplements without providing a letter.

Can you take painkillers to Dubai?

You can take painkillers to Dubai.

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However, it would be a good idea to have it in its original packaging so you can prove it is genuine.

And as previously stated codeine is not allowed.

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