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Smuggling / customs offencesVerified against official source

Verified against official source

This range was checked against the official legal text. Last verified: 2026-10-19.

Statutory range

Art. 145 — smuggling goods subject to high customs duties (and attempt)

Imprisonment: Imprisonment 1 month–1 year
Fine: Fine: not less than double the payable customs duties and not more than double the value of the goods

Fine and imprisonment, or either.

Art. 145 — smuggling other dutiable goods (and attempt)

Imprisonment: Imprisonment 1 month–1 year
Fine: Fine: not less than double the payable customs duties and not more than the value of the goods

Fine and imprisonment, or either.

Art. 145 — smuggling goods exempted from customs duties (and attempt)

Imprisonment: Imprisonment 1 month–1 year
Fine: Fine: 10%–100% of the value of the goods

Fine and imprisonment, or either.

Art. 145 — smuggling prohibited goods (and attempt)

Imprisonment: Imprisonment 6 months–3 years
Fine: Fine: 1×–3× the value of the goods

Fine and imprisonment, or either.

Note on this entry

Confiscation of smuggled goods (or a fine equal to their value if not seized) and of transport means/tools applies in all cases.

Source

Statute: GCC Common Customs Law, Art. 145
Official source: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (icp.gov.ae) — official authority text of the Common Customs Law
Verification status
Last verified: 2026-10-19

Not legal advice. This range is the statutory penalty as written in the law — it is not “your sentence.” What is NOT accounted for here: Priors, plea, discretion. If you face a real charge, consult a licensed lawyer in the relevant jurisdiction.