UAE residents and visitors carrying cash, gold, jewelry, diamonds, or other valuables exceeding a value of Dh60,000 while traveling now have the option to disclose these assets to the government using the Afseh mobile application.

It is compulsory for all passengers entering or leaving the UAE with assets exceeding Dh60,000, or the equivalent amount in any other currency, financial assets, precious metals, or gemstones, to declare these to customs officers. This regulation applies to both residents and visitors using airports, ports, and land borders for entry or exit. This measure is part of the UAE's ongoing efforts to combat money laundering. Each family member aged 18 or older is allowed to carry a sum not exceeding Dh60,000, or its foreign currency equivalent, without the obligation to declare it to customs officers.

The Afseh app has been developed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP).

Residents and nationals will need to provide information through a six-step process and declare the amount or value of cash and valuables. As this information can be edited, individuals have the flexibility to update the value if it changes while they are entering or leaving the country. Upon completion, residents will receive a QR code via SMS and email. At the airport or border, they can simply display the email to customs officials.

This new system will also simplify currency exchange for visitors and residents, as they can display the approval of their declaration form received from the ICP. Users can also register with Afseh through the UAE Pass, and the application is available on both Android and Apple platforms. Importantly, this service is provided free of charge, and individuals can also declare their assets through the ICP's website