What is a smuggling allegation?
A claim that a controlled substance was brought into or taken out of the UAE.
It commonly arises at airports, ports and borders.
What do we do?
We examine the inspection, the ownership of the item, who packed it and what you knew.
We also advise on cooperation where it is sensible.
What about unknowing carriers?
Some people are used to carry items without knowing.
We investigate how the item came into your possession.
What should I do first?
Describe your journey
Where you came from and who packed.
Preserve tickets and messages
Dates and contacts.
Name who asked you to carry
If anyone did.
Avoid statements without advice
They are used later.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bag carried for someone else my responsibility?
It can be treated as yours if found with you. Knowledge is the key. We investigate it.
Are airport drug cases different?
They have their own features. The airport guide explains.
Related guides
Drug Offences overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewAirport 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 guideTrafficking and Supply
How UAE law treats importing, producing, possessing and supplying controlled substances, and why quantity and intent shape the whole case.
Read the guideAirport Arrest
Why people are stopped at UAE airports on arrival, departure or in transit, and what your rights are.
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.