The country strictly prohibits the sale and trafficking of drugs, with drug use punishable by four years in jail. Other changes include reducing minimum sentences from two years to three months for first-time drug offenders and offering convicts rehabilitation at a detention facility separate from other felons.
How long do you go to jail for drug possession in UAE?
Repeated drug consumption or possession within three years of the first conviction can earn the offender a six-month jail term or a fine not less than Dh30,000 and not exceeding Dh100,000. However, a third-time offence brings a two-year prison term and a fine of at least Dh100,000.
What drug is legal in Dubai?
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United Arab Emirates has eased some of its harsh drug laws, relaxing penalties for travelers who arrive in the country with products containing THC, the main intoxicating chemical in cannabis.
Is drugs common in Dubai?
Drug use in Dubai and the UAE does occur but you won’t find ecstasy and the like in Dubai nightclubs as easily as in many western cities. Don’t be tempted to bring your own. Go without and wait till you get to Amsterdam or Berlin, unless you want to risk an unexpected extension to your Dubai visit.
What are the punishment for drug addicts?
Somewhat lighter penalties are prescribed for persons convicted of unlawfully possessing a narcotic drug: 3 two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000 for a first offense, 5–20 years and a similar fine for a second offense, and 10–40 years and the fine for subsequent offenses.
Is Dubai drug free?
Zero tolerance drug policy The Dubai authorities have been known to stop tourists on layovers at the airport and are now using extremely sensitive electronic detection equipment, including urine and blood screening, to search for traces of illegal substances.
Does the UAE have the death penalty?
While UAE law allows for the death penalty in certain cases, capital punishment is rarely carried out. The last-known executions were in 2011 and 2014, against two men convicted of murder.
Is Viagra legal in UAE?
Is Viagra legal in Dubai? Viagra is a brand name of sildenafil citrate. This drug is not featured on the MoH’s list of controlled drugs, so you should be able to take it into Dubai.
Can I Get Viagra in Dubai?
Again, Viagra is freely available in Dubai (no prescription needed) in any pharmacy. They frequently place it as an eye catcher. Prices are around AED 40-50 per pill (Viagra 100).
Can I bring Xanax to Dubai?
You need to follow the procedure given above for Xanax or any other prescribed medication. You are fine to bring it into Dubai.
Is there slavery in Dubai?
In the past two decades, the city of Dubai has experienced exponential growth, made possible by vigorous foreign investment and its robust tourism industry. However, beneath the glossy visage of the city lies a foundation of pervasive human rights violations; primarily slavery.
What happens if drugs are found in your house?
Fighting Drug Possession Charges If drugs are found in your home or vehicle, then you will usually be arrested, but that doesn’t mean you are guilty. Police will do whatever they can to get you to either confess or at least say something that will hurt your defense later on.
What is the sentence for drug use?
Persons convicted on federal charges of possessing any controlled substance face penalties of up to one year in prison and a mandatory fine of no less than $1,000 up to a maximum of $100,000. Second convictions are punishable by not less than 15 days but not more than two years in prison and a minimum fine of $2,500.
How long do you go to jail for drug possession in India?
More than small quantity but less than commercial quantity involves rigorous imprisonment up to 10 years and fine up to Rs. 1 lakh. Those activities involving commercial quantity of drugs attract rigorous imprisonment of 10 to 20 years and fine of Rs. 1 lakh to 2 lakh.
Highlights on penalties for use, possession of narcotics and illegal substances – Legal Developments
It is essential that all inhabitants, residents, and visitors to the United Arab Emirates are informed of the region’s zero-tolerance policy on narcotics. The United Arab Emirates has a strong drug policy with legislation in place that enforces a “zero tolerance” attitude for narcotics. In this post, we will discuss the most important elements of the UAE’s drug legislation, as well as the penalties that may be imposed if these rules are violated. The Federal Law No. 14 of 1995 on the Countermeasures Against Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (the “Narcotics Law”) criminalizes the procurement, import, export, manufacture, extraction, separation, production, possession, acquisition, and abuse of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, as well as all other types of activities and acts in connection with these activities and acts (collectively, the “Narcotics Law”) (Article 7).
Entities that are specifically licensed to handle controlled drugs are exempt from the provisions of the preceding article.
- Any of the chemicals listed in Schedules 1, 2, 3, and 4, which are attached to this Law, whether natural or synthetic, is referred to as a “narcotic drug.” The term “psychotropic drugs” refers to any of the compounds listed in Schedules 5, 6, 7 and 8, whether natural or manufactured, such as butalbital, barbital, aminorex, ethinamate, and opium, among other things.
Provisions to prevent medical abuse of banned substances:
Medical usage of any narcotic or psychotropic substance is prohibited in the United Arab Emirates under the provisions of Articles 24 and 27 of the Narcotics Law, which read as follows:
- Narcotic medications and psychotropic substances may only be dispensed by pharmacies with medical prescription from a treating physician who is duly licensed to practice medicine or veterinary medicine in the United Arab Emirates
- The management of a pharmacy is expected to maintain a record of medical prescriptions including narcotic medications or psychotropic substances, on which the date of dispensation and the number of the entry in the register are clearly marked
- Additionally, it is not permitted to use a medical prescription more than once.
Penalties for use, possession of narcotics and illegal substances in the UAE:
- The following penalties shall be imposed on anyone who abuses, in any way, or personally uses, any of the narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances specified in Schedules 1, 2, 4 and 5: A penalty of imprisonment for a term of not less than four years shall be imposed on anyone who abuses, in any way, or personally uses, any of the narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances specified in Schedules 1, 2, 4 and 5. An additional fine of not less than ten thousand dirhams may be imposed by the court in addition to the previously mentioned punishment. In the case of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances specified in Schedules 3, 6, 7 and 8, a penalty of imprisonment for not less than one year but not more than three years shall be imposed on anyone who has abused, in any way whatsoever, or personally used, in circumstances other than those authorized, any of the narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances specified in Schedules 3, 6, 7 or 8. An additional fine of not less than ten thousand dirhams may be imposed by the court in addition to the previously mentioned punishment. (Article 40)
- For narcotic or psychotropic substances or plants that are not specifically listed in the schedules:Anyone who abuses in any manner any narcotic or psychotropic substance or plant that is not specifically listed in the schedules to the narcotics law, and that substance causes narcosis or any other adverse effect on the mind, shall be subject to a penalty of imprisonment of up to one year. (See Article 41.)
Anyone who has encouraged or incited another person to commit any of the crimes listed under the jurisdiction of the drugs legislation faces harsher punishment. A deportation order as well as a permanent travel ban will be issued to ex-pats in addition to the punishment, preventing them from re-entering the UAE indefinitely. The United Arab Emirates is one of the few countries in the world that has the authority to impose the death sentence for drug usage. Overall, the UAE is serious about its zero-tolerance policy on drug misuse, and the rest of the region is as serious about adhering to it.
Tourists and new residents should take special care to ensure that they are well-versed on the country’s narcotics laws, which are particularly important.
More fromAl Rowaad AdvocatesLegal Consultants
Anyone who has persuaded or incited another person to conduct any of the crimes listed under the jurisdiction of the drugs legislation is subject to harsher punishments. A deportation order as well as a permanent travel ban will be issued to ex-pats in addition to the punishment, which would prevent them from entering the UAE indefinitely. Affluent nations such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can impose harsh penalties, such as the death sentence, for drug usage. Overall, the UAE is serious about its zero-tolerance policy on drug misuse, and the rest of the region follows suit.
Tourists and new residents should take special care to ensure that they are well-versed on the country’s narcotics laws, which should be their first concern.
- Property rights, women’s safety, and consensual relationships are some of the topics included in the new UAE legislation.
- Treatment for first-time offenders under the new UAE drug legislation
- Clarification on deportation and harsher punishments
Heftier fines for promoting and selling drugs
Fines for offenses including encouraging and promoting drug usage, as well as assisting narcotics transactions, have been raised from Dh20,000 to Dh30,000. Any individual who instigates, incites, or enables drug usage for another person will face a minimum 5-year prison sentence and a minimum Dh50,000 fine under the new law, which goes into effect immediately. If the crime occurred in a public area, such as a gathering of people, an educational or sporting institution, or a place of worship, and included a female, a youngster, a person of determination, or someone under the influence of alcohol, the crime will be deemed an aggravating factor.
It is possible that the criminal will serve at least 10 years in jail and be fined at least Dh200,000 if substantial injury was inflicted.
Those who manage, prepare, or set up venues for drug consumption will be sentenced to at least 7 or 10 years in prison, depending on the substance assisted, and a minimum fine of Dh100,000, whichever is greater.
The new UAE anti-narcotics legislation is part of the most comprehensive package of legislative reforms in the nation’s history, which was revealed on Saturday as the country commemorates its 50th anniversary and prepares for the next five-decade phase of its development.
With the use of worldwide best practices, it seeks to protect public health while also combating the use of drugs, their sale, and manufacture throughout the country. [email protected]
New UAE drug law: Treatment for first-time offenders; deportation, tougher penalties clarified
Image courtesy of the file Published:Sunday, November 28, 2021, 12:30 p.m. The most recent update was made on Monday, November 29, 2021, at 3:19 PM. The United Arab Emirates has made modifications to its anti-drug law as part of the country’s most comprehensive set of legislative reforms in recent history. The new Federal Decree Law No. 30 of 2021 on the fight against drugs and psychotropic substances, which will take effect on January 2, 2022, makes significant revisions to the previous Federal Law No.
- Some of the most significant provisions of the drug legislation are the rehabilitation of first-time drug offenders, the possible deportation of expats convicted in drug-related crimes, and the imposition of harsher penalties on repeat drug offenders.
- The UAE government said on Saturday that 40 laws will be changed, marking the most significant legislative revisions in the young country’s 50-year history and the largest in the world.
- These sectors include investment, commerce and industry, commercial enterprises, residency, internet security, and social affairs.
- “It takes into consideration issues like as justice, public health, security, and family relationships,” Elhais explained.
- Through stiffer penalties for first-time drug offenders, the modifications to the drug legislation provide a chance for first-time offenders convicted of personal narcotics use and possession to receive treatment while also assuring a reduction in drug advertising, sales, and recurrent use.
Treatment of first-time drug offenders
One of the law’s most notable provisions is the substitution of therapy for punishment for first-time offenders convicted of personal drug use and possession. From January of the next year, judges will have expanded authority to sentence convicts to specialized rehabilitation and treatment centers that will be constructed around the nation in accordance with the law, where they will serve the remainder of their jail sentence. If the criminal has not been convicted of a repeat offense and a medical report of his or her case has been given to the supervisory medical committee within six months, the clause will apply to him or her.
- The length of the offender’s rehab stay should not exceed one year.
- In addition to rehabilitation, sports and vocational training, and social integration programs, Elhais stated that serving time in these facilities will aid in the reintegration of drug users back into society.
- The request of the criminal to be released from the facility is approved by the supervision committee.
- Local health authorities are required to build units that are comparable to these.
- If the supervising committee discovers any violations or crimes committed by the offender while the offender is admitted, the court has the authority to sentence the offender to prison, depending on the nature of the violation or crime.
The amount of time that the criminal spends in rehabilitation will be deducted from his or her overall jail sentence. ALSO CHECK OUT:
- Property rights, women’s safety, and consensual relationships are some of the topics included in the new UAE legislation.
- Devices used to distribute false news will be confiscated under a new UAE rule, and their content may be destroyed.
- UAE legal reforms: A new legislation makes digital signatures permissible in the country.
Tougher penalties on serial offenders
While first-time offenders who are convicted of personal drug use and possession may be eligible to have their sentence swapped for treatment under the new law, repeat offenders may face harsher punishments. The decree legislation establishes three levels of punishment for drug use and possession, each with a different severity. If convicted for the first time, they face a three-month jail sentence or a fine of not less than Dh20,000 and not more than Dh100,000. The fine, which can be substituted by therapy depending on the court’s judgment, is the more severe punishment.
A third violation, on the other hand, results in a two-year jail sentence as well as a fine of at least Dh100,000.
Heftier fines for inciting and facilitating drug use
Fines for offenses including inciting and encouraging drug usage, as well as assisting the sale of narcotics, have been doubled from Dh20,000 to Dh30,000. Anyone who incites, enables, or encourages the use of drugs for another person would face a minimum of five years in jail and a Dh50,000 fine under the new legislation. If the crime occurred in a public area, such as a gathering of people, an educational or sporting institution, or a place of worship, and included a female, a youngster, a person of determination, or someone under the influence of alcohol, the crime will be deemed an aggravating factor.
The criminal risks a minimum of 10 years in jail and a fine of at least AED200,000 if he or she has caused significant injury or death.
A minimum punishment of Dh100,000 and a prison sentence of at least 7 or 10 years, depending on the substance(s) enabled, await those who manage, prepare, or set up facilities for drug usage.
ALSO CHECK OUT:
- Extramarital relationships are now more permissible under UAE law, according to a recent reform.
- A tough stance against bullying, fake news, and online harassment is included in the UAE’s new law.
- UAE’s new rape legislation mandates a life sentence, which can be increased to death in the event of a child victim.
Optional deportation of expats
The new legislation repeals the prior requirement that expats convicted of drug misuse or possession for personal use be deported, instead allowing the courts to make their own decision on the matter. It also provides that tourists and visitors who bring food items or products laced with drugs into the nation for the first time will not be subjected to legal consequences.
According to Article 96, the articles will be confiscated at the port of entry and destroyed by the appropriate government authorities. Carrying such things will not be viewed as a violation of the laws governing the importation, transportation, or possession of controlled substances.
Medical use
According to the new law, physicians must now submit a request to the specialized medical authority before raising the amount of any drug that contains narcotics or psychotropic chemicals, if the patient’s condition needs it. Previously, clinicians were not required to do so. The provision of medical prescriptions for narcotics or psychotropic medications is limited to situations in which a patient’s condition demands it, and is based on the physician’s expertise and conformity with the percentages set forth in the decree.
It is possible to be sentenced to life imprisonment and a fine of not less than Dh100,000 but not more than Dh200,000 if the licence holder utilized the material for the purpose of promoting or dealing it.
Drug Trafficking Laws In Dubai – Food, Drugs, Healthcare, Life Sciences – United Arab Emirates
All that is required to print this article is that you be registered or logged into Mondaq.com. Whenever it comes to illegal drug trafficking, the United Arab Emirates maintains a stringent “zero-tolerance stance.” According to Federal Law No. 14 of 1995 on ‘the control of narcotics and psychotropic substances’ and its amendments, which is commonly referred to as the ‘Drug law,” the production, import, export, transportation, buying, selling, storing, and possessing of narcotics and psychotropic substances are all prohibited in the United Arab Emirates.
- When narcotics or psychotropic substances are categorized under schedules 3, 6, 7, or 8 of the UAE’s drug regulations, the punishment under Article 40 may include imprisonment for up to two years and a fine of up to 10,000 dirhams, depending on the severity of the offense.
- When the criminal is a foreign national, extra deportation will be imposed once the term has been completed.
- If the crime of drug misuse is serious enough, the punishment in the UAE may include life imprisonment or even death, depending on the severity of the offence.
- Understanding that a person is guilty of drug trafficking when they are found to be in possession of narcotics is critical to understanding how the UAE courts define the offense.
- This is sufficient evidence to warrant the arrest of the accused, and any defense of non-consumption of narcotics is rendered moot in the eyes of the law.
- In recent years, the United Arab Emirates has implemented a number of proactive policies to combat drug usage in the community.
- Article 43 states that no criminal proceedings will be initiated against a drug abuser who voluntarily presents himself or herself to the investigative authorities and seeks treatment.
- The abuser will be kept in the unit until the decision is made to release him from custody.
- 3- The provisions of subsection (1) of this Article do not apply to an abuser who, in the opinion of the unit, has failed to adhere to the treatment plan that has been recommended.
- The information contained in this article is meant to serve as a broad introduction to the subject area.
- ARTICLES ON FOOD, DRUGS, HEALTHCARE, AND LIFE SCIENCES FROM THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ARE VERY POPULAR.
Healthcare data and information, as well as its evolution in terms of how this data and information is safeguarded, is a rapidly developing growth sector that presents challenges to both industry and the general public.
UAE’s new drug laws cut sentences and end mandatory deportation for expats
National Editorial: The most significant reform to UAE legislation to date The United Arab Emirates has changed its drug laws in order to reduce minimum terms, grant clemency to first-time offenders, and place a greater emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment. People convicted of drug use and possession will now serve their sentence in secure detention facilities that provide treatment and education programs rather than in jail alongside other offenders, as part of a series of significant reforms.
- Detailed descriptions of the modifications were published in the country’s Official Gazette.
- Previous to this, in 2016, the UAE decreased the minimum prison term from four years to two years.
- THC, present in cannabis, will no longer be considered a controlled substance.
- The new legislation was published in the Official Gazette and will take effect on January 2, 2019.
- Personal data will be better protected, copyright regulations will be more stringent, and false news will be addressed, among other things.
- Some are whole new pieces of law, while others are revised versions of previously enacted legislation.
Three-month sentence for first offence
According to Article 41 of the new law, first-time offenders will be punished to at least three months in jail and fined between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000 ($5,445 and $27,225), depending on the severity of the offense. If they commit the same offense again within three years, they will be sentenced to a minimum of six months in prison and a fine ranging from Dh30,000 to Dh100,000. When it comes to a third offense, a minimum term of two years will be imposed, as well as an additional punishment of at least Dh100,000.
Specialist detention centres instead of prison
The bill outlines intentions for the Ministry of Health and Prevention to build dedicated drug treatment facilities where persons convicted of drug use or possession will serve their prison sentences.
Treatment and rehabilitation programs, sports and vocational training, as well as familial, occupational, and social integration activities, will be provided through these organizations.
‘Recognising illness not crime’
Article 45 of the new law empowers courts to give priority to treatment for first-time offenders who have committed a crime. When it comes to drug use, “there is a clear acknowledgment of the necessity for a co-ordinated strategy that takes into account both criminal justice and public health,” says Dr Elhais, an attorney and legal adviser. “While justice is at the core of the new law, we can also see how the issue of drug use is being treated as a disease rather than a criminal offense,” says the author.
“However, under the new law’s article 75, deportation against expats is now discretionary for judges in circumstances of personal use, possession, or possession with the purpose to use,” Dr Elhais explained.
Second chance
People who have been convicted of smaller drug offenses should be given a second opportunity, according to Ahmed Ibrahim Saif, a former head justice of Dubai’s Criminal Courts. The National Institute of Standards and Technology A prominent judge at Dubai Civil Court and former chief justice of Dubai’s criminal courts, Ahmed Ibrahim Saif, said adjustments to the legal system were necessary in order to comply with UAE’s tolerant ideals. As a result of the recent move, “reform has been elevated to a higher priority, criminals are given second opportunities, and they are spared the loss of successful futures and good living they have earned in the nation,” he stated.
Saif stated that deportation can be a severe penalty, but that it is sometimes required in more extreme situations of criminal behavior.
In the prior legislation, someone who appeared in court for using a restricted substance without a prescription would have been deported, but under the new rule, they would be granted a second opportunity, according to the attorney.
Tough stance on trafficking remains in place
The penalties against offenders for inciting personal drug use, among other offenses, has been doubled from Dh20,000 to a minimum of Dh50,000, although the mandatory minimum jail sentence of five years has remained unaltered. The maximum fine would be Dh100,000 instead of the previous Dh20,000 if this occurred with the goal of inflicting injury to another person, however the minimum prison sentence of seven years would stay unchanged at Dh20,000.
The penalty for causing significant harm is a minimum of 10 years imprisonment and a minimum fine of Dh200,00, an increase from the previous fine of Dh20,000.
UAE’s legal reforms
The legislation has been changed to decriminalize consensual partnerships outside of marriage and to allow for the recognition and care of any children conceived as a consequence of such a connection. Photographs courtesy of Getty Images Updated at 7:23 a.m. on November 29th, 2021.
uae: UAE eases drug laws: No more jail for travellers bringing in cannabis – Times of India
A number of draconian drug prohibitions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been relaxed, including the penalties for visitors who enter in the nation with items containing THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient found in cannabis. According to the new rule, which was published on Sunday in the United Arab Emirates’ official gazette, persons who are discovered bringing food, beverages, and other things containing cannabis into the nation will no longer be imprisoned if it is their first offense.
- The law represents a significant shift for one of the world’s most restrictive countries when it comes to the importation of ordinary drugs for personal use, including cannabis and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals such as opioids, sedatives, and amphetamines, among other substances.
- Others include cutting the minimum penalties for first-time drug offenders from two years to three months, and providing prisoners with rehabilitation in a detention center that is isolated from the rest of the inmate population.
- The amendments are part of a broader legislative overhaul proposed as the United Arab Emirates commemorates its 50th anniversary of independence and strives to improve its image as a cosmopolitan center that attracts visitors and investment.
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Drug Laws in the UAE: What Travelers Need to Know
Image courtesy of iStock/Francoisjabre Tourists should be cautious while bringing prescription pharmaceuticals into the UAE, since they may be regarded as an illegal or prohibited substance. It is simple for travelers to make mistakes when bringing prescription medications into the nation. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) approved laws in 1996 that authorized the death sentence for narcotics trafficking. If we talk about drug policy in general, the United Arab Emirates has a zero-tolerance attitude regarding narcotics, which is applied in a number of different methods.
- Drug Laws in the United Arab Emirates
- Blood and Urine Tests
- Prescription Medicine
Drug Laws
It is illegal to possess even trace amounts of narcotics in the United Arab Emirates, and travelers caught with even tiny amounts of drugs have been sentenced to prison terms of up to four years. This has happened multiple times since 2006, and even little amounts of marijuana, such as 0.05 grams or less, can result in a conviction. If you are traveling to the UAE from a country where the drug regulations are considerably different from the UAE’s, be very mindful of this. Even 0.05 grams is a little quantity of material, and a tiny amount of it may easily be picked up on the soles of your shoes or the inside of another piece of clothing and placed in your luggage.
The selling and trafficking of narcotics is absolutely prohibited, and those who do so will face prison time or, in the worst case scenario, execution.
Blood and Urine Tests
The presence of illicit drugs identified in blood or urine testing is also considered possession, and yes, you may be prosecuted, fined, and perhaps imprisoned if you are found to be under the influence of narcotics that are illegally obtained.
Prescription Medication
To be clear, the UAE’s drug regulations are quite stringent, as you may have already seen. It is possible that prescription or over-the-counter medications will be classed as illegal or prohibited substances in the United Arab Emirates, and it is quite easy to make this error. A British tourist was sentenced to prison in 2005 after testing positive for codeine in her bloodstream. You’re probably familiar with codeine, which is often present in cough syrup and numerous over-the-counter pain relievers such as Nurofen, among others.
Because it is so easy to forget, double-check to see if you have any type of headache or pain relief medications in your luggage or on your person that may contain codeine before leaving the house.
Prior to entering the nation, permission must be obtained from the Ministry of Health of the United Arab Emirates.
Purchases may be made at home or while traveling, and claims can be made online from any location in the globe.
Illegal Drugs in UAE: The Criminal Charges for Possession – Al Rowaad
The rules governing the possession and use of narcotic drugs have received a great deal of attention in recent years, particularly in the United States. Aside from a few nations, all other countries outlaw or severely limit the use of narcotics and illicit drugs such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, ecstasy, and other similar substances. According to the figures, the United Arab Emirates has seen a horrific surge in the use and possession of illegal narcotics in 2018. The legality or illegality of a drug is often determined by its intended use, which is defined as the purpose for which the substance will be used.
For example, marijuana has been shown to aid in the treatment of cancer, amphetamines are used to treat attention deficit disorder, and barbiturates are used to treat anxiety disorders.
In order to regulate or ban the unlawful use of narcotics and illegal substances in their own countries, every government passes legislation.
Those who come to the United Arab Emirates carrying unprescribed medications and illegal pharmaceuticals for personal use should exercise caution.
According to recent amendments to the Drugs Law, the authority has established an Addiction Treatment Unit supervised by the Treatment Supervision Committee (the Committee), which will treat the individual as a patient rather than as an addict, thereby assisting him in his progress toward rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
As stated by the UAE Government, the foreign revisions are in the best interests of society as a whole because drug users are frequently socially shunned, and the procedure will assist them in maintaining their healthy lifestyles.
The Criminal Lawyers of Dubai hope that this article will help its readers comprehend the legal and criminal ramifications of having illicit and narcotic substances in the United Arab Emirates. The article will also provide a comprehensive list of illegal substances that are outlawed in the country.
- What laws govern the possession of narcotics and illicit substances in the United Arab Emirates
The possession and use of narcotics substances are governed by Federal Law Number 8 of 2016 about the Combatting of Narcotics Substances (the Drugs Law). The legislation imposes severe penalties on those who produce, sell, use, possess, or import-export illegal narcotics into the nation, as well as those who import-export them. As stated in Article 6 of the Drugs Legislation, it is highly banned to import, export, manufacture, produce, possess, obtain, or misuse any of the narcotic drugs listed in the law.
The United Arab Emirates has signed a number of treaties and conventions relating to drugs and psychotropic substances, as well as their use.
The following are the primary aims of the convention:
- Drugs like heroin and psychotropic substances should only be used for medical and scientific purposes
- They should be prohibited from being used illegally. Drug trafficking must be eliminated.
While the Drugs Law allows for the implementation of international treaties on drugs, Federal Law Number 4 of 1983 governing the Pharmaceutical Profession and Establishment outlines the fundamental standards for the procurement and selling of prescription medicines.
- What criminal charges can be brought against a person who has been apprehended because they were in possession of illicit drugs or who was traveling with illegal drugs in the nation
- And
As stated in Article 6 of the Drugs Law, the possession, manufacture, and sale of narcotics drugs are all criminally punishable by imprisonment. As a result, anyone detected in possession of illicit narcotics will be detained immediately, either at the airport if traveling to the UAE or elsewhere. After that, the case will be sent to the public prosecutor, who will produce a report after getting the test results on the substances in question in order to assess if the offender had a criminal intent.
Once the report has been completed, the issue will be presented to the criminal court for appropriate punishment to be administered.
The bare minimum term for such an offense is 4 (four) years in prison, as well as a fine of not less than AED 10,000 and, in some circumstances, deportation.
- What are the fees and taxes associated with importing, exporting, and transporting narcotics drugs into the country?
In accordance with Article 10 of the Substances Law, the import and export of narcotic and psychotropic drugs are forbidden unless they have received prior written clearance from the Competent Administrative Authorities. Article 11 of the Convention establishes a list of competent authorities, whose written confirmation can be used in the importation and exportation of narcotic narcotics. These authorities are as follows:
- Government or licensed hospitals or clinics in the UAE
- Licensed scientists, chemical analyzers or laboratories in the UAE
- Government or licensed hospitals or clinics in the UAE Pharmacies, drug stores, and pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities that are licensed
- Agents of pharmaceutical businesses or manufacturers who have been granted permission to practice their profession
The authorization shall be in the name of the director or the appropriate person, and it shall be granted on the basis of the application that has been duly signed.
It is within the discretion of the competent authorities to accept or reject the application, as well as to restrict the number for security concerns. Furthermore, the legislation restricts the authorisation to the following people, as specified under Article 12 of the Drugs Law :
- Anyone who has been charged with a breach of trust is eligible to apply. Anyone who is convicted under this statute
- Anyone who has been convicted of violence, corruption, or any other property-related offense
According to Article 13 of the Substances Law, narcotic drugs that have arrived at the UAE’s customs can only be released if they are accompanied by a written withdrawal authorization that has the signature of the entity’s director and is in the appropriate format. It is important to note that if the import and export permission is not used within 60 days, it would be regarded null and invalid.
- The punishments for having and utilizing narcotics drugs in the nation are as follows:
Under the Drugs Legislation, drug addicts who take drugs in any form or for personal use without a prescription are subject to a penalty. The law specifies what constitutes a legal prescription. In accordance with the nature of the offense, different punishments are imposed on different people. Several lawyers in Dubai have put up a list of offences that fall under the purview of the Dubai Drugs Law, along with the corresponding punishments:
| S.No. | Offence | Imprisonment | Fine |
| 1. | Anyone who abuses drugs mentioned in Schedule 1,2,4 and 5 without specific authorization | Not less than 4 years | Not less than AED 10,000 |
| 2. | Anyone who abuses mentioned in Schedule 3,6,7, and 8 without authorization | Not less than 1 year and not more than 3 years | Not less than AED 10,000 |
| 3. | Anyone who abuses the narcotic drug or plant which is conducive to narcosis or harmful effect on the mind with such intention | Not less than 1 year and not more than 3 years | Not less than AED 10,000 |
| 4. | Anyone who induce or incite another person to commit an offence under this law or facilitate the person with illegal drugs | Not less than 5 years | Not less than AED 20,000 |
| 5. | Anyone with the intention of causing harm induces or incite other and thereby caused harm | Not less than 7 years | Not less than AED 20,000 |
| 6. | Anyone who manages or set up a place for using narcotic drugs mentioned in Schedule 1,2, 4 and 5 | Not less than 10 years and not more than 15 years | Not less than AED 20,000 |
| 7. | Anyone who manages or set up a place for using narcotic drugs mentioned in Schedule 3,6, 7 and 8 | Not less than 7 years | Not less than AED 20,000 |
| 8. | Anyone who is aware of such a place or is apprehended that the person was his wife or husband | Not less than 6 months and not more than 1 year | Not less than AED 10,000 |
| 9. | Anyone who imports, introduce, export, manufacture, produce or separated any drugs mentioned in schedule 3,6,7 and 8 | Not less than 7 years and not more than 10 years | Not less than AED 50,000 and not more than AED 200,000 |
| 10. | Anyone who traffics or promotes the usage of such drugs | Imprisonment for life | Not less than AED 50,000 and not more than AED 200,000 |
| 11. | Anyone who kills the public official in charge for implementation of the law | Death Penalty |
A non-exhaustive list of medications is provided in the Drugs Law, which is classified into numerous schedules, each of which is forbidden or limited in use unless specifically permitted by the Law. The substances on the list are in accordance with the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, to which the United Arab Emirates is a signatory. The following are schedules indicating medications that are forbidden in the United Arab Emirates: 1st Schedule
| Acetorphine | Acetyl – alpha – methlfentanyl | Acetylmethadol | Alfentanil | Allylprodine | Opium |
| Alphacetylmethadol | Alphameprodine | Alphamethadol | Alpha – methylfentanyl | Alphaprodine | Pethidine – intermediate – A |
| Anileridine | Benzethidine | Benzylmorphine | Betacetylmethadol | Betameprodine | Phenazocine |
| Betamethadol | Betaprodine | Bezitramide | Cannabis | Clonitazene | Proheptazine |
| Coca leaf | Cocaine | Codoxime | Concentrate of poppy straw | Desomorphine | Sufentanil |
| Dextromoramide | Diampromide | Diethylthiambutene | Difenoxin | Dihydromorphine | Opium |
| Dimenoxadol | Dimepheptanol | Dimethylthiambutene | Dioxaphetyl butyrate | Diphenoxylate | Pethidine – intermediate – A |
| Dipipanone | Drotebanol | Ecgonine | Ethylmethylthiambutene | Etonitazene | Oxycodone |
| Etorphine | Etoxeridine | Fentanyl | Furethidine | Heroin | Pethidine – intermediate – B |
| Hydrocodone | Hydromorphinol | Hydromorphone | Hydroxypethidine | Isomethadone | Phenomorphan |
| Ketobemidone | Levomethorphan | Levomoramide | Levophe nacy lmorphan | Levorphanol | Properidine |
| Metazocine | Methadone | Methadone – intermediate | Methyldesorphine | Methyldihydromorphine | Thebacon |
| Methylfentanyl | Metopon | Moramide – intermediate | Morpheridine | Morphine | Noracymethadol |
| Morphine Methobromide | Morphine – N – Oxide | MPPP | Myrophine | Nicomorphine | Noracymethadol |
| Oxymorphone | Oxymorphone | Normethadone | Normorphine | Norpipanone | Phenoperidine |
| Piminodine | Piritramide | Piminodine | PEPAP | Pethidine | Racemethorphan |
| Thebaine | Tilldine | Trimeperidine | Phenodoxone | Phenampromide |
Schedule number two.
| Acetyldihydrocodeine | Codeine |
| Dextropropoxyphene | Dihydrocodeine |
| Ethylmorphine | Nicocodine |
| Nicodicodine | Norcodeine |
| Pholcodine | Propiram |
Table of Contents, Second Edition
| Preparation of:a) Acetyldihydrocodeine b) Codeine. c) Dihydrocodeine. d) Ethylmorphine. e) Nicocodine. f) Nicodicodine. g) Norcodeine. h) And Pholcodine.The drugs above when a compounded with other ingredients and comprise not more than 100 milligrams of the drug on single dosage of a unit and with a concentration of not more than 2.5 percent. |
| Preparations of propiram comprised of at least 100 milligrams of propiram for every dosage and compounded with the same amount of methylcellulose. |
| Preparations for oral use consisting of not more than 135 milligrams of dextropropoxyphene base per dosage or with a concentration of not exceeding 2.5 per cent, subjected that such developments are not containing any substance controlled under the 1971 convention on Psychotropic Substances. |
| Preparations of cocaine containing not exceeding 0.1 per cent of cocaine calculated as cocaine base and preparations of opium or morphine containing not more than 0.2 per cent of morphine estimated as anhydrous morphine base. It is compounded with one or more other ingredients and in such a manner that the drug cannot be recovered by readily applicable procedures or in a yield which would lead to a risk to public health. |
| Preparations of difenoxin containing, per dosage unit, not more than 0.5 milligrams of difenoxin and some amount of atropine sulfate equivalent to at least 5 percent of the dose of difenoxin. |
| Preparations of diphenoxylate comprising of per dosage unit, not exceeding 2.5 milligrams of diphenoxylate calculated as base and some amount of atropine sulfate equivalent to at least one percent of the dose of diphenoxylate. |
| PULVIS IPECACUANHAE at EPII COMPOSITES:·10 percent opium in powder.·10 percent ipecacuanha root, mixed well in the dust.·80 percent of some other powdered substance containing no drug. |
Schedule No. 2
| PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3 |
| Ergot mushrooms | Cannabis, male or female, in all its designations, such as hashish, Kamanja, bangoo, etc | Narcotic fibres of cannabis stems |
| Seeds and inhalants of the plant known as “al-qubba | Poppy | Cannabis seeds which are roasted so as to definitely ensure non-germination |
| Mushroom is known as “Crow nest.” | Papaver | Poppy seeds which are roasted so as to definitely ensure non-germination |
| Fruits and stems of the plant known as “Tabernananna”; | Coca | |
| Bast of the tree known as “Kaujnanth yohembi | Kat | |
| The base of the plant known as “Mahar Babuna.” | Datura | |
| Seeds of the plant known as “Convolvulus tricolour.” | The plant is known as “Sakran.” |
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UAE eases drug laws: No jail for bringing in THC, reduced sentences for first-time drug offenders
In conjunction with the UAE’s 50th anniversary celebrations and efforts to improve its image as a cosmopolitan city, the government has promised a broad law change. Image that serves as a representation. Reuters Dubai: Travelers who bring items containing THC, the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, into the United Arab Emirates will face less severe penalties than they would otherwise face, according to the country’s new drug policy. According to the new rule, which was published on Sunday in the UAE’s official gazette, persons who are detected bringing cannabis-laced food, drinks, or other things into the nation will no longer be imprisoned if it is their first offense.
The law represents a significant shift for one of the world’s most restrictive countries when it comes to the importation of ordinary drugs for personal use, including cannabis and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals such as opioids, sedatives, and amphetamines, among other substances.
Others include cutting the minimum penalties for first-time drug offenders from two years to three months, and providing prisoners with rehabilitation in a detention center that is isolated from the rest of the inmate population.
The amendments are part of a broader legislative overhaul proposed as the United Arab Emirates commemorates its 50th anniversary of independence and strives to improve its image as a cosmopolitan center that attracts visitors and investment.
For decades, the country’s legal system, which is based on Islamic law, or Shariah, has often placed expats and tourists in jail for conduct that few Westerners would consider to be crimes under normal circumstances.
Faisal Alzarooni
Is it possible that you’ve been accused of a narcotics offence in Dubai? You should speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible in order to defend your legal rights. Our attorneys and advocates at The Law Offices of Faisal Alzarooni are professionals in the field of criminal law, having worked as experienced criminal defense lawyers in Dubai for many years. Throughout the United Arab Emirates, we provide counsel to people in all areas of complicated drug offences matters, including the following:
Drug Possession and Personal Consumption
Individuals found in possession of a restricted drug in Dubai are arrested at a higher rate than anywhere else in the country. In the United States, controlled substances are described as illicit narcotics that have been recognized by the government as being hazardous. As reported by the Dubai Department of Corrections, 2,000 of the city’s 16,000 convicts are being held in jail or prison for drug-related offenses. Drug possession is often associated with drug sales, as is the case in most cases.
- When narcotics are discovered in your possession, you may be prosecuted with possession with intent to sell by law authorities, even if the drugs were intended only for your own use.
- The type and amount of drugs in your possession, your intent to sell or distribute them, your previous criminal history, and the circumstances surrounding your arrest determine the severity of your punishment.
- Because of their legal credentials and courtroom experience, our criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Faisal Alzarooni are well suited to represent you in court.
- When it comes to drug possession cases, having an experienced criminal defense attorney may make all the difference.
- An expert criminal defense attorney will fight for your constitutional rights and will do all in his or her power to keep you out of prison.
- Make an appointment with our office now to talk with a knowledgeable drug criminal defense attorney.
Drug Trafficking
A drug trafficking crime in Dubai can result in a felony criminal conviction if the act is not reported immediately. In the United States, drug trafficking is defined as “the trade or dealing in unlawful substances, as well as the sale or exchange of illicit drugs.” Heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and Tramadol are the most often encountered narcotics in drug trafficking investigations. When it comes to the fight against narcotics, Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy. The accusations that may be filed against you for drug trafficking activities are quite serious, and the punishment can range from life imprisonment to death if you are convicted a second time.
Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can ensure that you have the most favorable outcome possible in your drug trafficking case.
Our criminal defense attorneys and advocates are experienced in handling a wide range of criminal defense cases.
Our drug trafficking defense attorneys have the education and dedication necessary to successfully defend you against your drug trafficking allegations.
We encourage you to contact our offices immediately so that we may analyze the facts of your case and create a working relationship with you in order to guarantee that you obtain the best possible outcome in your drug trafficking case in Dubai.
Drug Transporting
The rules against the unlawful transportation of drugs (also known as narcotics or restricted substances) in Dubai are intended to penalize large time traffickers and repeat offenders with severe penalties, including imprisonment. Transportation of prohibited substances is defined as the illicit transit of a restricted drug from one site to another. This can be accomplished through airplane, automobile, boat, rail, or any other mode of transportation. The punishment for a drug trafficking violation might include a variety of different consequences.
Drugs smuggled into Dubai from foreign countries are subjected to the harshest sanctions and punishments possible.
We will guarantee that your rights are safeguarded in Dubai and that you obtain outstanding legal counsel in your drug transportation case if you retain the services of The Law Offices of Faisal Alzarooni.
The repercussions might include a jail or prison sentence, fines, and probation, to mention a few options.
As a result, persons convicted of drug trafficking face extremely harsh penalties in Dubai’s courts.
If you are under investigation, have been charged, or have been arrested for the crime of drug transportation, you should contact our criminal defense attorneys immediately.
We provide a free first consultation during which we will go through your drug transportation case with you and answer any concerns you may have about the process.