UAE Travel Alert 2025: Dubai & Sharjah Airports Crack Down on These Hand Luggage Items — Check Before You Fly!
If you’re flying through Dubai or Sharjah airports in 2025, you might want to double-check what’s in your hand luggage. Authorities are enforcing strict rules on banned and restricted items — and breaking them could mean losing your belongings, paying a fine, or even facing legal trouble.
Overview of Sharjah International Airport
Sharjah International Airport is the third largest Middle East air freight hub in cargo tonnage, according to official 2015 statistics from Airports Council International. Ground services company, Sharjah Aviation Services, handled 586,195 tonnes in 2015 – a 16.1% increase year on year. It has one passenger terminal with an area of 125,000 m2 (1,350,000 sq ft).
These rules aren’t just random — they’re there to keep passengers safe, meet global aviation standards, and make security checks faster for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know before you pack.What You Cannot Carry in Your Hand Luggage
Dubai and Sharjah airports have a clear list of items that are a big no-no in your cabin bag:
Sharp Tools & Weapons:
- Hammers, nails, screwdrivers
- Scissors with blades longer than 6 cm
- Knives over 6 cm, swords, sabres, martial arts weapons
Firearms & Ammunition:
- Guns, flare gun bullets, handcuffs, laser guns
- Any kind of ammunition or explosives
Flammable or Dangerous Goods:
- Paint, petrol, fireworks, flammable gases
- Corrosives like bleach or ammonium nitrate
Other Prohibited Items:
- Baseball bats, ropes, electric cables (beyond personal use)
- Stun guns, tear gas, chemical or biological agents
Even look-alike weapons or fake explosives will be confiscated — and yes, you could face legal action.
Liquids, Gels & Aerosols — The 100ml Rule
You can bring liquids in your cabin bag only if:
- Each container is 100ml or less
- All fit into one clear, resealable bag (max 20cm x 20cm, total 1 litre)
Exceptions:
- Medicines and baby food over 100ml are allowed with a doctor’s prescription or medical documents
- These must be declared separately during security checks
Big bottles of water, perfume, or frozen liquids? Sorry, not allowed in hand luggage.
Power Banks & Electronics — New Rules
Power banks are allowed, but:
- Only 1 unit under 100Wh per passenger in cabin baggage
- 100Wh–160Wh needs airline approval (still can’t use onboard)
- No power banks in checked baggage — fire risk
- Electric suitcases or rideables with lithium-ion batteries? Completely banned
Medical devices with batteries may need certification or prior airline approval.
Food, Medicines & Special Items
- Paan (betel leaves) and cooked food cannot be carried across UAE borders by air
- Fresh fruits, spices, and homemade snacks may be restricted
- Always check with your airline or UAE customs before travelling with special food or medicines
Final Tips for Hassle-Free Travel
- Rules can change — always check latest airline and airport guidelines before packing
- Arrive early in case of extra security checks
- Remember: Security screenings are thorough, with X-rays and physical bag inspections
By knowing the rules, you save yourself the stress of last-minute confiscations — and help keep flights safe for everyone.
1. What sharp objects are banned?
Anything sharp over 6 cm like knives, scissors, swords, hammers, and martial arts weapons.
2. Liquid restrictions?
Max 100ml per container, all in one 20cm x 20cm resealable bag (1 litre total).
3. Can I bring a power bank?
Yes — one under 100Wh. No usage or charging during the flight.
4. Are there exceptions for baby food or medicines?
Yes, over 100ml allowed with valid prescriptions or documents.
5. What happens if I carry banned items?
Confiscation, fines, or even legal penalties depending on the item.
