Why are transit passengers stopped?
A warrant, a notice, a customs finding or an item in luggage may be detected during transit.
Being in transit does not stop UAE law from applying to what is found.
What do we do?
We establish the reason, attend, explain the position and act on release, onward travel and the underlying case.
We also advise on whether the case can be dealt with without the person remaining in the UAE.
What should you know before transiting?
Check what you carry, including medicines, and be aware of any past case.
A medicine legal at home may be controlled here.
What should I do first?
Contact us at once
Time pressure is high in transit.
Give your flight details
So that we can plan around them.
Show prescriptions
Medical papers for any medicine.
Avoid statements without advice
Explain only what is necessary.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Can a transit passenger be arrested?
Yes, if a case or an offence is identified. We act at once to limit the consequences.
Will my luggage be inspected?
It can be. Customs rules apply to transit baggage as well.
Related guides
Travel Bans, Deportation & Airport Cases overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewAirport Arrest
Why people are stopped at UAE airports on arrival, departure or in transit, and what your rights are.
Read the guideAirport Drug Cases
What happens when a controlled substance or prescribed medicine is found at a UAE airport, and how the law treats entering with a substance.
Read the guidePrescription Drug Offences
How the law treats controlled medicines: prescriptions, dispensing limits, medicines prescribed abroad and offences by doctors and pharmacists.
Read the guideSources
This page describes how we act in this type of case. It does not restate the law: the linked guides set out the statutory position and cite the official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, uaelegislation.gov.ae. The Arabic text prevails over translations.
This page is general information, not legal advice.