India has notified the Baggage Rules, 2026, along with the Customs Baggage (Declaration and Processing) Regulations, 2026, marking a major update to customs procedures for international passengers. The new rules, issued by the Ministry of Finance and published by the Press Information Bureau, come into effect from February 2, 2026, replacing the earlier baggage framework that had been in place for several years.
The revised rules aim to simplify customs clearance, increase duty-free allowances, and align baggage regulations with current travel volumes. For travellers from the UAE, one of India’s largest overseas travel corridors, the changes are particularly relevant given the high frequency of family visits, business travel, and relocation between the two countries.
A key change is the increase in duty-free allowances. Indian residents and tourists of Indian origin arriving by air or sea can now bring goods worth up to ₹75,000 without paying customs duty, compared with ₹50,000 earlier. Foreign tourists not of Indian origin are eligible for a duty-free allowance of ₹25,000, up from ₹15,000. These limits apply per passenger and exclude certain restricted items.
For UAE-based Indian expatriates, who often travel with consumer electronics, gifts, and household items, the higher threshold reduces the likelihood of customs duties on routine purchases. According to Mr. Sharma, a Dubai-based logistics and travel consultant who frequently advises non-resident Indians, the revised limits better reflect current price levels and the purchasing patterns of Gulf travellers, particularly those returning after short stays.
Jewellery rules have also been simplified. The earlier value-based caps have been replaced with weight-based allowances. Eligible female travellers can carry up to 40 grams of jewellery duty-free, while other eligible travellers can carry up to 20 grams, subject to conditions. This change is expected to reduce valuation disputes at airports, a common issue for passengers arriving from the UAE, where gold purchases are common.
Another significant update concerns passengers who transfer their residence to India. The rules streamline duty-free entitlements based on the duration of stay abroad. Travellers returning after more than two years overseas can import household goods and personal effects duty-free up to ₹7.5 lakh, subject to prescribed conditions. This provision is relevant for long-term UAE residents relocating back to India after employment or business assignments.
The new baggage framework also places greater emphasis on digital processes. Passengers are encouraged to submit electronic or advance baggage declarations, which customs authorities say will help speed up clearance and reduce congestion at major airports. Mrs. Gupta, a frequent flyer between Abu Dhabi and Delhi, notes that advance declarations could be particularly useful during peak travel seasons when queues and manual checks tend to increase.
Existing concessions, such as the duty-free import of one laptop for passengers aged 18 or older, remain unchanged. Temporary import and re-export provisions also continue to apply for professional equipment and personal electronics, subject to documentation and time limits.
For UAE travellers, the Baggage Rules 2026 provide clearer guidelines, higher allowances, and a more predictable customs experience. While the rules do not change customs duty rates themselves, they redefine how allowances are calculated and applied. Travellers are advised to review the updated provisions before travel to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
