New UAE drug law: Optional deportation for expat convicts

The new amendments of the UAE's anti-narcotics law provide the court with the option of deporting expats convicted in drug-related cases.

The federal decree law no. 30 of 2021 on combating narcotics and psychotropic substances changes the previous mandatory deportation of expats convicted with drug consumption or possession of narcotics for personal use.

The law, to be effective from January 2, 2022, brings key amendments to the Federal Law no. 14 of 1994.

It also stipulates that tourists and visitors carrying food items or products mixed with narcotics while entering the country for the first time will not face legal action.

According to article 96 of the new decree law, the items will be confiscated at port entries and destroyed. Carrying such items will not be treated as import, transport or possession of drugs.

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Sherouk@khaleejtimes.com