Our travel expert answers your questions about routes and destinations
I have hypertension and use prescription medication. What is the exact procedure when taking medication out of SA to the United Arab Emirates? — Arlene Cameron
The UAE has very strict anti-drug laws and a number of commonly used drugs are banned. If at all possible, it is best not to travel with any drugs. However, if you need prescription medication daily there are a number of precautions you should take. The most important of these is to ensure that your medications are not on the banned “narcotics” list. This consists of a group of drugs that the UAE authorities believe could lead to addiction if not controlled. This includes common anti-depressants, sleeping tablets, painkillers and hormone replacement therapy. Some of them are available over the counter in other countries. If your medication is not on this list, you should carry it in your hand luggage, packed in the original packaging and with a valid prescription. To check that your medication can be carried legally and is not on the banned list, contact the UAE Ministry of Health’s Drug Control Department on +971 2611 7240 or e-mail drugcl.csc@moh.gov.ae.