Hi All, I am relocating to Dubai in a week and half and am very concerned about whether or not I can take my daily supplements with me:
Chinese herbal teapills (2 different formulas),
SAM-e (natural anti-depressant),
Chlorella tablets (green algae like Spirulina),
B-Vitamins,
and Fiber pills (psyllium husk and herbs).
I'd also like to take some Ginseng pills. (I plan to work a lot!)
I would also need to take several bottles of each to to ensure availability and good pricing. (I have already checked on my Chinese herbal pills with an acupuncture clinic there. They only had one, and charge the equivalent on $85 for a 10 day supply!) I need to take them ongoing for months.
All of this is bought over the counter in the US, and 100% natural. They all say "Dietary Supplement"
There are no "pharmaceuticals", but the SAM-e says, "pharmaceutical grade"...
Can anyone living in or having traveled to Dubai tell me if there is ANY chance of having a problem with bringing these items in my checked luggage?
I hear chances of being searched are pretty rare, but I am a brown woman with long dreadlocks (albeit neat and clean ones;) I might stand out...
If there is any chance of arrest or detainment (read about someone being locked up for having Melatonin! which is all natural and not on the "banned" list either), than I would prefer to buy these there. There's also that Aussie couple who got detained for having Celebrex - arthritis medication - not on the banned list - just so the Emirates could take the time to figure out what it was...
I know you need prescription and maybe doctor's note, then have it attested in home country before travel - for prescription medications, but these are not in that category. I just hope they would not be treated as such - out of their confusion.
Does anyone think it would help/be fine if they are factory-sealed and I have printouts describing what they are?
I am working on getting prescriptions for my Chinese herbs, and will get them attested if I have the time before the company flies me out, but I might fly on the 1st (don't even know my ticket date yet!)
Can anyone living there tell me where I could find any of these items in Dubai? And at affordable prices?
I've just placed a big online order, but am second-guessing bringing these supplements...
Please help with any info you have!
Thank you!!!
