If you’re someone who travels with a backpack full of gadgets (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t these days?), there are some important new rules you should know before your next flight. Global airlines, including those in the UAE, have updated their policies on carrying electronic devices, and it’s all to keep passengers safe from the dangers of overheating lithium batteries. I have all the important details you need to know before your next flight, so keep reading to find out more.
Also read: UAE: Top Tips To Avoid Getting Your Visit Visa Rejected
Changes From Emirates
Over the past few years, airlines worldwide have been tightening restrictions on devices powered by lithium batteries. Which means your power banks, Bluetooth earphones, and even drones. These batteries can overheat and, in rare cases, catch fire mid-flight or even at the airport.
As part of these safety measures, Emirates has officially banned the use of power banks on board starting October 1. You can still bring them with you in your carry-on, but charging your devices mid-air using them? That’s a no-go.
What’s Allowed (And What’s Not)
Here’s a quick breakdown of what the UAE’s major airlines — Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai — say you can and can’t pack:
| Item | Carry-on | Checked Baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Batteries (max 20 spares) | Yes | No |
| Lithium batteries (100–160Wh) | Approval needed (Emirates) / Yes (Etihad, Flydubai) | No |
| Drones | No (Emirates, Flydubai) / Yes (Etihad) | Yes |
| Power banks | Yes | No |
| Smart bags with removable batteries | Yes | Yes |
| E-cigarettes | Yes | No |
| Hoverboards, rideable scooters | Not allowed at all | Not allowed at all |
| Hair curlers (with hydrocarbon gas) | Yes (with safety cap) | Yes (no refills) |
Important Things To Remember
- Always double-check your airline’s website before you pack. Rules can vary slightly between carriers.
- Power banks and e-cigarettes are only allowed in your hand luggage, and they must be turned off for the entire flight (no charging or using them onboard).
- Etihad Airways doesn’t allow certain Apple MacBook Pro models in checked baggage after a recall. If yours is one of them, it must stay switched off and unplugged during the flight.
- Dubai Airport allows a maximum of 15 mobile phones in luggage, and they need to be in their original packaging (your personal phone doesn’t count).
- Drones are okay if the battery is removable and doesn’t exceed 160Wh. But remember, you can’t fly or operate them at the airport or on the aircraft.
- Hair styling tools powered by hydrocarbon gas are fine to carry, but the safety cap must be securely in place, and gas refills aren’t allowed.
Stay Updated & Travel Smart
The rules might seem a bit technical, but they’re all about safety. Protecting both you and everyone on board.
So before you zip up your travel bag, take a quick look through your gadgets and make sure everything’s packed according to airline regulations. A few extra minutes of checking can save you from lots of last-minute airport drama.
