Emirates Carry-On Restrictions: What You Cannot Bring in the Cabin
Emirates enforces strict carry-on rules aligned with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, UAE GCAA, and global aviation security. Violations cause delays, confiscation, or denied boarding. Here’s the definitive prohibited list (updated 2024).
1. Dangerous Goods (Absolute Ban)
- Explosives: Fireworks, flares, party poppers, ammunition, caps, gunpowder.
- Compressed Gases: Butane/propane canisters, CO₂ cartridges, scuba tanks, oxygen cylinders, aerosol cans >100ml (except toiletries/meds).
- Flammables: Lighter fluid, gasoline, kerosene, ethanol, paint thinners, strike-anywhere matches.
- Oxidizers/Organic Peroxides: Bleach, hydrogen peroxide (>3%), nitrate fertilizers.
- Toxic/Infectious: Pesticides, rodenticides, virus cultures, medical waste.
- Radioactive: Isotopes, contaminated materials.
- Corrosives: Acids, alkalis, mercury, wet-cell batteries (car batteries).
2. Weapons & Sharp Objects
- Firearms, parts, replicas, air guns, BB guns, tasers, pepper spray.
- Knives: All blades >6 cm (including pocket knives). Scissors >6 cm blade. Box cutters, razor blades (loose). Exception: Disposable cartridge razors (blade enclosed).
- Tools: Crowbars, hammers, drills, saws, screwdrivers >7 cm, wrenches, pliers (blunt tools in checked).
- Sports Equipment as Weapons: Bats, clubs, cues, ski poles, hiking poles, martial arts weapons.
3. Electronic Cigarettes & Vaping (Total Ban)
- Devices, batteries, e-liquids, pods — prohibited in BOTH carry-on AND checked baggage (UAE Federal Law No. 15/2009, GCAA). Confiscated at security. Fines possible.
4. Liquids, Gels, Aerosols (LAGs) — The 100ml Rule
- Containers ≤100 ml (3.4 oz) each.
- All fit in 1 transparent, resealable 1-liter bag (20×20 cm).
- One bag per passenger.
- Exemptions (declare at security): Medications (with prescription/doctor’s note), baby food/milk (for infant on board), special dietary needs.
- Duty-free purchases: Sealed in STEB (Security Tamper-Evident Bag) with receipt — allowed if connecting through Dubai (DXB) or final destination.
5. Bulk Personal Items
Excessive clothing, toiletries, or goods exceeding carry-on allowance (1 bag 7 kg Economy/10 kg Business/First + 1 personal item) — may be forced to check.
6. High-Value & Fragile Items (Advised Carry-On, Not Prohibited)
- Jewelry, cash, electronics, documents, keys, medication, passports — keep in carry-on. Emirates not liable for loss in checked bags.
7. Large Electronics
- Laptops, tablets, power banks (≤100 Wh; 100–160 Wh needs airline approval; >160 Wh forbidden), cameras — carry-on only. Remove for screening.
8. Animal Products
Restricted by destination country (CITES, veterinary certs). UAE bans many meat/dairy/untreated products. Check MOCCAE (UAE Ministry) before travel.
Quick Reference
| Category | Carry-On | Checked |
| Vapes/E-cigs | ❌ | ❌ |
| Power bank ≤100 Wh | ✅ | ❌ |
| Liquids ≤100ml + 1L bag | ✅ | ✅ |
| Knife >6 cm | ❌ | ✅ |
| Scuba tank | ❌ | ❌ (unless empty, valve open) |
Always verify at emirates.com/baggage or GCAA.ae before packing. Rules change; ignorance isn’t a defense at security.