UAE-Pakistan travel: Will personal items be seized under $1,200 baggage rule?
FBR addresses misunderstanding as confusion spread over proposed amendments
DUBAI: Pakistan’s Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has cleared the air over a recently proposed amendment to the country’s baggage rules, which had sparked confusion regarding the handling of personal items exceeding $1,200 (Dh4,400).
A number of media outlets in Pakistan reported that goods worth more than $1,200 would be confiscated at the airport under a new law, causing significant concern among the Pakistani community, especially those living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
FBR's clarification
In a statement issued yesterday, the FBR clarified that the proposed amendment to the Baggage Rules, 2006, was aimed at curbing the misuse of the baggage facility by commercial carriers, not affecting personal luggage. The notification, initially issued on December 6, 2024, had led to widespread misinterpretation, particularly on social media, where it was believed that any personal baggage valued over $1,200 would be seized.
The FBR explained that the $1,200 limit applied only to goods that could be deemed to be in "commercial quantity," meaning goods intended for trade or pecuniary purposes. These items would be subject to confiscation if they exceeded the set value. However, this limit does not apply to items meant for personal use or as gifts.
Misinterpretation of rules
A key concern for passengers travelling from the UAE to Pakistan is the frequent purchase of expensive items, including electronics and luxury goods, intended as gifts for family and friends. Many of the 1.7 million Pakistanis residing in the UAE, as well as hundreds of thousands of visitors, regularly carry such items. The confusion around the baggage rules had caused panic among those returning to Pakistan, fearing that their personal belongings could be seized.
In the original draft, which was part of a wider review of the Baggage Rules, the FBR sought to define what constitutes “commercial quantity.” Under this proposal, goods valued over $1,200 and intended for trade or profit would be treated differently from personal belongings and gifts. The amendment also suggested that passengers could only bring one additional mobile phone, aside from the one in regular use.
Withdrawal of notification
To address the growing public concern, the FBR announced that it would withdraw the notification to avoid further confusion. The tax authority emphasized that the $1,200 cap only applies to items that are clearly for commercial use, not to personal or gift items. The FBR strongly rebutted the rumours circulating in the media and social platforms, reiterating that customs authorities would not confiscate personal baggage over the $1,200 value.
The notification was initially part of an effort to review and tighten the enforcement of baggage rules for incoming passengers. However, given the misunderstanding caused, the FBR has withdrawn the proposed amendments to ensure the public is properly informed and no further anxiety is caused.
Personal use exemption
In light of the confusion, the FBR confirmed that the value limit would not affect personal belongings, including gifts for family and friends, as long as they are not deemed to be for commercial purposes. Passengers can continue to carry items worth more than $1,200, provided they are for personal use and not intended for resale or financial gain.
The FBR has assured the public that this clarification should help alleviate concerns and ensure smooth travel for those bringing items into Pakistan from abroad. As the confusion began to spread widely through social media, the FBR acted quickly to correct the narrative and maintain clarity regarding the baggage rules.