My girlfriend and I are flying from Ireland to Australia but have 2 stopovers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (about 3 hours in Dubai and 4 in Abu Dhabi, one self check-in and the other is just a connecting with no self-check in).
We have a vibrator, small and compact. Are we able to put this in checked luggage or under stow luggage…?
Not really wanting a fine or to be out in prison because of it. Would it be best to throw out?
Neither: you should leave your vibrator at home. You can easily buy a new one in Australia.
If you have a "self-transfer" in DXB or AUH, you will need to take all your luggage, both checked in and carry on, through Customs, and this often involves getting it X-rayed. Sex toys are illegal in the United Arab Emirates, so if it's spotted the consequences will be unpleasant, although most likely to be just a fine, not jail time.
Alternatively, instead of a naughty, illegal sex toy, you could bring along a perfectly legitimate handheld deep tissue massager like this one sold in the UAE.
There are two aspects to this question: The black and white legal answer, and then the reality of the situation on the ground. The legal answer is that sex toys are illegal, and if found, you will be subject to confiscation and/or a fine and/or jail time. As others have mentioned, just buy one at your destination and dispose of it before returning home.
The reality is that sex toys are readily available and people travel in and out (and through) the UAE with them regularly. Anecdotally, the worst case scenario is that you bag will be opened and the offending item will be removed, often without you even knowing (i.e. no TSA style "your bag has been checked" notice). But obviously your experience will vary - we were happy to take the risk!
