The UAE has released a list of items passengers are banned from transporting to and from the country, seeking to ensure safe travel for all.

The Federal Customs Authority said prohibited goods included narcotics, raw ivory, laser pens with red lights, fake and counterfeit currency, and substances containing nuclear rays and dust.

Live animals (specifically pigs), stone sculptures, gambling paraphernalia, nylon fishing nets, religiously offensive or immoral drawings and paan substances, including betel leaves, also make the banned list.

Officials said the value of gifts carried by travelers should not exceed $817 and the cap on cigarettes was $55.

Additionally, tobacco products and alcoholic drinks should not be carried by travelers below 18 years.

All travelers coming to or departing the country should disclose any currencies and precious metals or stones valued more than $16,300.

The authority has posted an awareness video – in Arabic, English and Urdu – on its website to ensure people abide by the customs regulations of the Emirates and other Gulf countries.

The FCA said passengers caught smuggling face both prison sentences and fines.

The authority said smuggling offences included transporting or possessing prohibited or restricted goods, failing to declare commercial goods, furnishing forged documents and placing false signs to evade duties.

The FCA said permitted luggage includes movie projection devices, radio and CD players, digital cameras, TV and receiver (one of each), personal sports equipment, portable computers and printers, and medication for personal use, provided it complies with applicable regulations.

Officials stated that entry of some restricted items may be permitted following consent from authorities.

This includes live animals, weapons, ammunitions, explosives and fireworks, medicines, drugs and medical equipment and instruments, alcoholic drinks, cosmetics and personal care products, raw diamonds and cigarettes manufactured and processed from tobacco.

The FCA offered tips for travelers to ensure stress-free trips.

These include not receiving luggage or bags in a country of departure without knowing their contents, not exchanging luggage with friends without checking what is inside and always carrying a certified prescription for medications. Travelers were also urged to follow guidelines and instructions issued by airlines and forwarding companies, and not to conceal information on prohibited or restricted substances.