Understanding Drug Trafficking and UAE Drug Laws
What is Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking refers to the international trade of drugs. It involves production, manufacture, packaging, transportation, and regional distribution of drugs, sometimes carried out by organised criminal groups. The United Arab Emirates considers drug trafficking a serious crime as it threatens public safety and morality. The country has issued strict legislations against drug trafficking, and offenses can lead to lengthy imprisonment (ranging from years to life), deportation, and/or substantial fines.
What is the UAE Drug Law?
The Federal Law Decree No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances is the primary law in the UAE against drug trafficking. Additionally, the Cabinet Decision No. 43/2024 outlines laws regarding the treatment of non-resident foreigners caught at UAE ports with possession of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances.
Prohibitions and Penalties for UAE Residents and Citizens
- Article 10: Prohibits the import, export, transportation, production, manufacture, possession, or acquisition of drugs listed in Schedules 1, 2, 4(1), and 5. This includes synthetic drugs like Alfentanil, Cocaine, Morphine, and natural substances like kava, Khat leaves, and ergot. Authorized medical and scientific use is permitted under supervision.
- Also prohibits drugs listed in Schedules 3, 6, 7, and 8 unless under strict authorization.
- Article 14: Allows controlled handling of naturally growing narcotics (e.g., cannabis, opium, peyote) under strict authorization.
- Articles 57 and 58: Violations can lead to fines and imprisonment, with penalties scaled to the quantity involved. Trafficking or gang involvement may result in the death penalty.
Consequences of Abusing Authority
Article 59: If someone authorized to possess substances violates their permitted use, they face at least five years in prison and a minimum fine of AED 100,000. If trafficking is involved, the death penalty may apply.
Travel Ban and Asset Seizure
Authorities can impose travel bans and freeze assets of the accused or their family if those assets are linked to drug crimes. Courts may restrict access to funds or impose travel bans until the trial concludes.
If the crime involves an organized gang operating across multiple emirates, prosecution orders are valid throughout the UAE.
Prohibitions and Penalties for Non-Residents
Non-residents caught with narcotic or psychotropic substances at UAE ports are subject to Cabinet Decision No. 43/2024. Unauthorized possession for personal use can result in fines, deportation, or permanent ban. Penalties depend on the drug type, quantity, and prior offenses.
Fines range from AED 10,000 to AED 100,000. Offenders are banned until the fine is paid.
Conclusion
The UAE has evolved its stance on drug-related offenses. While penalties for personal possession have softened slightly, drug trafficking remains a major crime with severe consequences.
