Why Dubai Customs wants you to keep valuables in sight when flying

Dubai: Whether you are heading off on a long-awaited holiday or a quick business trip, the last thing you want is to run into problems with lost valuables or customs delays. Luckily, a few simple habits can make your journey much smoother—starting with how you pack and how you handle customs, according to a senior customs officer in Dubai.

One of the golden rules for travellers, according to Khalid Ahmed, Director of Passenger Operations at Dubai Customs, is to always carry your valuable items in your hand luggage, not checked-in baggage.

“I advise all our fellow travellers—citizens and residents alike—not to pack valuable items in their checked-in luggage. Instead, keep them with you, in your own hands. It’s simply safer,” he said during an interactive session on Noor Dubai radio channel.

Why? Because when your valuables are with you, you’re in control. That means less worry about theft, damage, or loss.

“It’s a precaution that allows you to protect your belongings personally,” Ahmed adds.

Many travellers get nervous around customs, but there’s really no need to be. The best approach? Be open and proactive.

“The moment you reach a customs checkpoint—whether here at home or in another country—take the initiative to declare what you’re carrying,” Ahmed explains. “Just say, ‘We have such-and-such item.’”

Airports around the world have made this process easier by setting up designated declaration zones. These areas are clearly marked and designed to help you comply with customs regulations quickly and easily.

“All major airports have dedicated declaration zones. Use them. Step up and declare what you need to—it’s that simple,” Ahmed advises.

If you're departing from Dubai, there's an added convenience: Dubai Customs has offices even after the police security checks in the departure terminals.

“If you're leaving from Dubai, you can still declare items before you fly,” Ahmed says. “Dubai Customs has offices beyond the police checkpoints, where travellers can declare and get official documents as proof.”

This step can be a real lifesaver if you're travelling with items that might raise questions at your destination. With official documentation in hand, you’re far less likely to face issues down the line.

Ultimately, these small steps are about protecting yourself—both legally and financially.

Proactively declaring items helps you steer clear of legal trouble in another country. And keeping your valuables close means they’re less likely to disappear mid-journey.

“There’s no downside,” Ahmed said. “By taking these steps, you protect yourself and avoid unnecessary trouble abroad. No one will be asking you later, ‘Where did this come from?’”