Hello folks. I posted this also in the Etihad forum, hoping someone can help. I will be transiting Abu Dhabi and have been prescribed some sleeping pills which I take on an occasional basis.
I have read that the UAE requires inbound travelers to register their controlled medication before they enter the country. Does this apply to residents and visitors alike? Judging from press reports and the UK FCDO website’s travel advice, it seems so. However, the UAE health ministry’s website seems to imply that it is optional for non-residents: https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-of-permit-to-import-medicines-for-personal-use
This service is optional for travelers visiting the country who wish to obtain electronic approvals, as it is allowed for those coming to the country to take narcotic medicine and psychotropics (controlled medications) with them within the limits of a quantity that does not exceed the patient's need for a maximum period of three months.
Does anybody know anything more certain? I will be in transit so I’m not even sure it applies to me (though I may want to explore the city during my transit).