Health issues to prepare for in the UAE
- Heat exhaustion and dehydration — summer temperatures often exceed 40 °C.
- Dust and sand allergies, dry eyes and sore throat from air-conditioning.
- Stomach upsets from rich buffet and street food.
Medicine checklist for Dubai
| Category | Why you need it in the UAE |
|---|---|
| ORS | Heat and sweating cause rapid dehydration |
| Antihistamine | Dust, sand and pollen allergies |
| Lozenges & cough suppressant | Dry air-conditioned air |
| Antacid, antimotility | Rich food and buffets |
| Paracetamol | Headaches from heat and fever |
UAE rules on bringing medicines
The UAE strictly controls narcotic and psychotropic medicines, including some strong painkillers, codeine products, sleeping pills and anxiety medicines. Visitors may bring them for personal use up to a 3-month supply with a prescription issued within the last three months that shows the patient’s name, medicine, dose and duration. Pre-approval through the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) e-service is optional but makes entry smoother.
Check before you fly
Always verify controlled medicines against the official MOHAP list — carrying one without documents can lead to serious legal problems.
Frequently asked questions
Which medicines are not allowed in Dubai?
Many narcotic and psychotropic medicines (such as codeine, tramadol and some sleeping or anxiety medicines) are controlled. They need a recent prescription and are limited to a 3-month supply; check the MOHAP list before travelling.
Do I need a prescription for paracetamol in Dubai?
No. Ordinary over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol and antacids for personal use do not need special approval, but keep them in original packaging.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chitarth Rajasekaran
Founder & Medical Director · MBBS, MS Ortho, DNB Ortho, MRCS (Edin), Fellow in FIJR, FISS
A practising surgeon and frequent traveller, Dr. Chitarth founded TravelMed after a family trip abroad was derailed by a minor illness.
Read his storySources
This article is general information for travellers and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Medicine-import rules change — always confirm with the destination’s official health authority or embassy.
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