Cannabis — United Arab Emirates

Cannabis is illegal in the United Arab Emirates in every form, including hashish, edibles, vape cartridges and oils. Using or possessing it for yourself carries at least three months in prison, or a fine of 10,000 to 100,000 dirhams, and a court must order the deportation of any foreigner convicted under the drugs law. A separate rule since April 2024 covers non-residents caught at the border with under 100 grams for personal use: a fine and entry on the first occasion, deportation and a three-year ban on the second, a lifetime ban on the third. That is a lighter penalty band, not permission. And being arrested at a place you know is kept for drug-taking is a separate offence even if you are carrying nothing and take nothing: six months to a year in prison and a fine of 10,000 to 20,000 dirhams.

Personal use or possession: at least three months in prison, or a fine of 10,000 to 100,000 dirhams, rising for repeat offences within three years. Deportation of a convicted foreigner is mandatory. Possession of 20 to 100 grams outside the border rule carries at least ten years; over 100 grams carries life. The death penalty applies where the offence is committed with intent to traffic or promote. Being arrested at a place you know is used for drug-taking: six months to one year plus a fine of 10,000 to 20,000 dirhams (art. 54). Managing, preparing or providing such a place: at least ten years plus a fine of at least 100,000 dirhams where the substance is one of those in Schedules 1, 2, 4 or 5 (art. 53).

Verified Sep 11, 2026