Is CBD Legal in United Arab Emirates?

CBD is restricted in the UAE and not freely available as a consumer product. Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 retains cannabis and its derivatives on Schedule I unless specifically registered for medical use. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) Pharmaceutical Affairs Department and emirate health authorities (DOH Abu Dhabi, DHA Dubai) can register CBD-based pharmaceutical products on a case-by-case basis, but no over-the-counter CBD market exists.

Travelers carrying CBD oils, tinctures, or gummies - even products labeled as zero-THC - risk seizure at customs and historically arrest. The 2021 reform reduced criminal exposure for unintentional importation, but products are still confiscated and travelers may face administrative hold. Pharmaceutical CBD such as Epidiolex (cannabidiol oral solution) has been registered under prescribed pathways for refractory epilepsy patients with MOHAP approval. Cosmetic CBD remains effectively banned.

This information is for orientation only and not legal advice. Anyone considering bringing CBD products into the UAE should obtain written guidance from MOHAP and consult a UAE-licensed attorney first.