Bringing Medicines to the UAE? Secure Your Free MOHAP Import Permit Today
Dubai: Travelers intending to bring controlled or semi-controlled medications into the UAE must ensure they have the necessary permits. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) facilitates this process, allowing both residents and visitors to import medications for personal use.
UAE residents can purchase medicines from various pharmacies within the country. However, those who have undergone treatment abroad or require specific medications from other countries may need to import them. The MOHAP issues a Permit to Import Medicines for Personal Use, which is essential for certain types of medications.
Understanding the Permit Requirements
The Permit to Import Medicines for Personal Use is mandatory for narcotics, controlled, and semi-controlled medications. It is not required for other types of drugs. Controlled medications are strictly regulated due to their potential for abuse and harm. This category includes:
- Narcotics: Strong painkillers such as morphine and fentanyl.
- Psychotropic Drugs: Medications affecting mental state, including antidepressants and benzodiazepines.
- Stimulants: Central nervous system stimulants, often prescribed for conditions like ADHD.
- Sedatives and Tranquilizers: Used for anxiety and sleep disorders.
These medications require strict medical supervision and cannot be transported across borders without prior approval.
Semi-controlled medications, classified as Controlled Drug Class B, include drugs that may lead to habituation or have serious side effects. A comprehensive list of over 200 medications, including their generic and trade names, is available on the MOHAP website.
Non-Controlled Prescription Medications
Regular prescription medications, such as non-controlled antibiotics and inhalers, do not require a permit. Imran Khan, managing director at I K Lawyers, noted that travelers can carry up to a six-month supply for personal use, provided they have a valid medical prescription.
Eligibility Criteria for the Permit
Both UAE residents and tourists can apply for the import permit. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
- UAE Residents: Individuals over the legal age can apply through MOHAP’s online portal. If the applicant is a minor, a guardian must submit the application.
- Tourists/Visitors: Prior approval is optional for visitors. They may apply online using passport details before arrival. If they choose not to obtain approval, they must declare their medications upon arrival at customs, entering through the Red Channel. The maximum allowed is a three-month supply.
Required Documentation
Applicants must prepare specific documents before applying for the permit:
- For Residents: Emirates ID and valid passport.
- Prescription: This must include the patient’s full name, medication details (name, dosage, duration), issuance date, physician’s name, and must be issued within the last three months, stamped by the healthcare facility.
- Medical Report: This should cover the patient’s clinical history, including diagnosis, treatment plan, and physician’s name. It must be issued within the last year and recognized by the healthcare facility.
Application Process for the Permit
To apply for the Permit to Import Medicines for Personal Use, follow these steps:
- Visit the MOHAP website and log in using your UAE PASS if you are a resident. Visitors must create an account.
- Navigate to the “Issue of Permit to Import Medicines for Personal Use” section and click “Start Service.”
- Fill in the required details, including the country of origin and duration of stay in the UAE.
- Select “Add Medical Product” and provide the necessary information about the medication, including name, strength, and quantity.
- Upload the required documents, including the prescription and medical report.
- Review your application for accuracy, make any necessary edits, and accept the terms and conditions.
- Click “Submit” to complete the application.
Upon review, MOHAP will issue an approval certificate for the medication type. Notification will be sent via SMS or email once the certificate is issued.
Accessing the Permit
To access and print the certificate:
- Click on the “Application Number” in the All Applications screen.
- Select the “Certificate” tab and open the certificate as a PDF file, which can be saved or printed.
Cost of the Permit
The Permit to Import Medicines for Personal Use is issued free of charge by MOHAP.
For further details, including a comprehensive list of medications requiring permits, visit the MOHAP website.
Source: www.emirates247.com
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Published on 2026-07-07 09:33:00 • By the Editorial Desk
