If you are flying to the UAE, or any other Gulf country, you may want to think twice about what exactly you pack in your bags. Sometimes, even a simple homemade sweet can land you in serious trouble! This is exactly what happened to an Indian expatriate from Bihar, who was detained at Abu Dhabi International Airport on July 23rd for carrying a traditional Indian sweet called Raskadam.
What Exactly Happened At The Airport?
The man was reportedly stopped by airport authorities after they found Raskadam in his luggage. This sweet, which is loved across India, contains poppy seeds, known in different parts of the country as khaskhas, postadana, or gasagase. Poppy seeds are a common ingredient in Indian kitchens. It is used in curries, gravies and desserts. However, in the UAE, Oman, and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, poppy seeds fall under a completely different category. They are treated as a narcotic substance because of their link to the opium poppy plant.
As per the Royal Oman Police, poppy seeds are on the list of banned narcotic items. The Times of Oman also reported that bringing such items into the country, whether for personal use or as a gift, can lead to legal trouble. The traveller's family reached out to the Embassy of India in the UAE and India's Ministry of External Affairs, asking them to step in and help secure his release. His employer also approached the local authorities to assist with the matter.
This incident serves as a reminder that food laws are not the same everywhere. A dish that is completely normal in your home country could be seen as illegal elsewhere. Many expats and travellers carry home-cooked snacks and sweets for family members abroad, without realising that a single ingredient could cause a major problem at customs. Before you pack any food item, it is wise to check the rules of the country you are travelling to.
Things You Should Strictly Avoid Carrying During Air Travel
Poppy Seeds And Poppy Seed Products
As seen in this case, poppy seeds are banned in several Gulf countries. Avoid carrying sweets, snacks or spice mixes that contain them, even in small amounts.
Prescription Medicines Without Documentation
Some medicines that are legal in India, such as strong painkillers or sleeping pills, are banned in other countries. Always carry a doctor's prescription and check the destination country's drug list beforehand.
Fresh Fruits, Vegetables And Plants
Many countries restrict fresh produce, seeds, and plants to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Even a single fruit in your bag can be confiscated, and in some cases, can lead to fines.
Meat And Dairy Products
Homemade pickles, meat items, or dairy-based sweets can be stopped at customs, especially if they are not sealed or properly labelled. Some countries have a complete ban on carrying meat products from abroad.
Alcohol Beyond The Permitted Limit
Every country has a fixed duty-free limit for alcohol. Carrying more than the allowed quantity can lead to confiscation or fines.
Cash Beyond The Declared Limit
Most countries require travellers to declare cash above a certain amount. Failing to do so, even unintentionally, can raise red flags with customs officials.
Sharp Objects And Tools
Items like knives, scissors, or tools with blades should never be packed in hand luggage. Even nail cutters with sharp edges can be taken away at security checks.
Counterfeit Or Pirated Goods
Fake branded items, pirated CDs, or counterfeit products can be seized at customs and may lead to penalties in certain countries.
E-cigarettes and Vaping Products
Several Gulf countries, including some emirates in the UAE, have strict rules around vaping devices and e-liquids. Carrying them without checking local laws can result in confiscation.
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