Dubai Police have arrested 14 members of an international criminal network and seized 2.3 tonnes of drugs valued at more than Dh115.1 million, foiling an attempt to distribute narcotics and psychotropic pills inside the country.

The force said specialised teams acted on intelligence that the gang was preparing to distribute a large quantity of drugs, then carried out targeted operations and field surveillance before detaining the suspects under what it described as a tight security plan.

What was seized in the operation

According to Dubai Police reporting carried by Virgin Radio Dubai, the haul — hidden inside 113 cartons — included:

  • Narcotic pills including Xanax, Tramadol and Lyrica
  • Alcon Mydriacyl drops
  • Crystal meth and marijuana
  • Paper laced with narcotic substances

The total weight came to 2.3 tonnes, with an estimated value above Dh115.1 million. The suspects will be handed to judicial authorities for further legal action.

Sealed evidence cartons stacked in rows at a Dubai Police facility
The drugs were hidden inside 113 cartons, police said.

What Dubai Police said

The authorities stressed that protecting the community — especially young people — from the dangers of drugs and psychotropic substances is a security priority. The announcement, shared on the force’s official channels on October 2, drew a strongly supportive response from the public.

For visitors, the practical takeaway is about Dubai’s strict approach: the UAE enforces severe penalties for drug offences, including for substances that may be legal or prescribed elsewhere. Travellers should check medication rules before flying — our UAE visa guide links onward to entry requirements, and our Dubai facts page covers local laws visitors most often get wrong. If you are unsure about a prescription medicine, verify it before travel rather than at the airport.

Staying on the right side of Dubai’s laws

Check prescription medication

Some medicines controlled in the UAE are freely sold abroad. Confirm your medication is permitted, and carry prescriptions for anything you bring.

Never carry items for strangers

Police cases repeatedly involve goods carried on behalf of others. Do not accept packages, luggage or cartons from anyone you do not know well.

Report suspicious offers

Dubai Police run the e-Crime platform for online offences and the 901 number for non-emergencies. Visitors staying in Deira and Old Dubai hotels or anywhere else in the city can use the same channels.

Dubai Police patrol vehicle on a city street at night
Police said protecting the community, especially young people, is a security priority.

Frequently asked questions

How many people were arrested?

Dubai Police arrested 14 members of what it described as an international criminal network.

How much were the seized drugs worth?

More than Dh115.1 million, weighing 2.3 tonnes in total and hidden inside 113 cartons.

What types of drugs were seized?

Narcotic pills including Xanax, Tramadol and Lyrica, plus crystal meth, marijuana, Alcon Mydriacyl drops and paper laced with narcotic substances.

What happens to the suspects now?

Police said the suspects will be handed to judicial authorities for further legal action.