Case Study : AE Airlines Update Electronic Device Rules 2025

10 Oct, 2025

UAE Airlines Update Rules for Electronic Devices: What Travelers Need to Know in 2025

If you’re someone who packs multiple gadgets every time you travel, here’s an important update: major UAE airlines — Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai — have introduced new rules for carrying electronic devices onboard. These changes aim to enhance passenger safety, especially with the rising risks linked to lithium batteries overheating mid-flight.

Below is a complete, traveler-friendly breakdown of what’s allowed, what’s not, and what you should double-check before heading to the airport.

Updated Rules for Electronic Devices (UAE Airlines)

Airlines across the globe have tightened safety measures over the years due to the risks of lithium batteries catching fire. This includes devices like drones, power banks, Bluetooth gadgets, laptops, and more.

What’s Allowed & What’s Not

Item	Carry-on	Checked Baggage
Batteries (max 20 spares)	✔️ Yes	❌ No
Lithium batteries (100–160Wh)	✔️ Approval needed (Emirates) / Allowed (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	❌ Not allowed
Hair curlers (hydrocarbon gas)	✔️ Allowed with safety cap	✔️ Allowed, no refills

Important Update From Emirates

Starting October 1, Emirates has banned the use of power banks onboard.
You can still bring your power bank in your carry-on (not checked baggage), but you cannot use it to charge devices during the flight.

This rule aligns with global aviation safety measures to prevent battery overheating incidents.

Key Things Every Traveler Should Remember

✔ Check your airline’s official website before packing. Rules vary slightly between carriers.
✔ Power banks and e-cigarettes must always be in your hand luggage — and must stay switched off throughout the flight.
✔ Certain Apple MacBook Pro models recalled by the manufacturer are not allowed in checked baggage by Etihad. They must remain off and unplugged at all times.
✔ Dubai Airport limits passengers to 15 mobile phones in luggage (not including the one you carry personally). They should ideally be in original packaging.
✔ Drones are permitted only if the battery is removable and below 160Wh. Operation of drones at airports or aircraft is strictly prohibited.
✔ Gas-powered hair styling tools are allowed only with a secure safety cap. Gas refills are not permitted.

Travel Smart & Stay Updated

These rules may seem strict, but they’re in place to keep all passengers safe. A few minutes of checking your devices before you leave home can save you from delays, fines, or having your gadgets confiscated at the airport.

Whether you're traveling for business or holiday, staying informed ensures a stress-free journey.