Are Hemp Foods Legal in the UAE?

Understanding Hemp Food Products

Hemp foods have become increasingly popular in many parts of the world. Products such as hemp seeds, hemp seed oil, and hemp protein powder are often used in food products because they come from the hemp plant and contain various nutrients.

However, since hemp belongs to the cannabis plant family, many people ask are hemp foods legal in the UAE and whether these products can be sold or consumed in the country.

To answer this question, it is important to understand how UAE law regulates hemp and cannabis-related substances.

Cannabis Laws in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates has strict laws when it comes to cannabis and controlled substances.

Products containing THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, are illegal in the country. This includes items such as marijuana, THC oils, cannabis edibles, THC gummies, and cannabis vape products.

Possession, import, or distribution of these products can lead to serious legal consequences under UAE narcotics laws.

Because hemp plants belong to the cannabis family, hemp-derived products are also carefully regulated.

Hemp Foods and Regulations

For those asking are hemp foods legal in the UAE, the answer depends on the specific product and its regulatory status.

Globally, hemp seeds and hemp seed oil are used in food products because they come from parts of the plant that naturally contain very low levels of THC. However, in the UAE hemp-related food products fall under strict regulatory oversight.

Importing or selling hemp food products may require regulatory approvals, testing, and compliance with food safety regulations. Hemp-derived ingredients cannot be freely introduced into the market without meeting legal requirements.

Industrial Hemp Law in the UAE

The UAE introduced Federal Decree-Law No. 24 of 2025, which regulates industrial and medical uses of hemp.

Under this framework, industrial hemp used in regulated activities must contain extremely low levels of THC, generally below 0.3 percent.

However, this legal framework primarily focuses on industrial materials, research, and pharmaceutical development rather than consumer cannabis products.

As a result, hemp-related food items are not widely available in regular retail markets in the UAE.

Important Advice for Travelers

Travelers visiting the UAE should avoid carrying hemp food products unless they are certain the products comply with UAE regulations.

Even if hemp foods are legal in other countries, bringing them into the UAE without approval could lead to issues with customs authorities.

Understanding local laws before traveling helps avoid unnecessary legal complications.

Conclusion

The question “are hemp foods legal in the UAE” reflects the strict regulatory approach the country takes toward cannabis-related substances.

While industrial hemp is regulated under controlled frameworks, recreational cannabis products remain illegal, and hemp food products are not commonly available in consumer markets.

Anyone interested in hemp-derived foods in the UAE should always check official regulations and ensure compliance with national laws before importing or using such products.