Travellers entering or exiting the UAE via Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah must now declare valuables worth over 60,000 dirhams (about $16,300) online before arrival or departure, under a new regulation designed to strengthen border security and combat illicit financial flows.

The rule, issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, applies to anyone aged 18 and above carrying cash, jewellery, precious stones, or other high-value items. For minors, a parent or guardian is required to submit the declaration.

Instead of completing paper forms at the airport, travellers are now required to submit their declarations in advance via the Afseh online platform before reaching customs.

The change adopts a pre-screening approach, allowing officials to review and approve declarations before travellers arrive at the counter.

The service is free and available via the Afseh app or at declare.customs.ae, with log-in supported through UAE Pass.

Passengers must provide their contact details, travel itinerary, and a detailed list of the items they are carrying, including exact cash amounts and currency types. Receipts or other proof of purchase for luxury goods may also be requested. Once approved, the declaration appears in the traveller’s “Approved Requests” section online, with notifications sent via SMS and in-app alerts.

The policy currently applies at Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah international airports, with plans to extend it to other entry points. Authorities say the measure aims to curb money laundering, stop the smuggling of high-value goods, and monitor major cross-border transactions.

Failing to declare valuables exceeding the 60,000-dirham limit can result in confiscation, fines, and possible criminal investigation. Customs officials have warned that ignorance of the rule will not be accepted as an excuse.

The threshold covers cash in any currency, traveller’s cheques, gold, diamonds, luxury watches, and other high-value personal items.