New Baggage Rules 2026: How Much Duty is Payable on Dubai Gold?

India’s new Baggage Rules 2026, which came into effect on February 2, have brought greater clarity for travellers returning from abroad, especially those carrying gold jewellery from Dubai. With Dubai remaining a popular destination for gold purchases due to competitive prices and wide variety, understanding the updated rules is important to avoid surprises at Indian airports.

What Has Changed Under Baggage Rules 2026?

The Ministry of Finance has replaced the earlier Baggage Rules, 2016 with the Customs Baggage (Declaration and Processing) Regulations, 2026. The revised framework aims to simplify baggage checks, reduce disputes at airports, and clearly define what travellers can bring without paying customs duty.

One key update is the explicit allowance for duty-free import of jewellery by Indian residents and persons of Indian origin who have lived abroad for more than one year. The rules use the word “jewellery” broadly, which includes gold jewellery purchased in Dubai.

Duty-Free Limit for Dubai Gold Jewellery

Under the new rules, eligible passengers can bring gold jewellery from Dubai without paying customs duty, subject to weight limits:

• Female passenger: Jewellery up to 40 grams
• Passenger other than female: Jewellery up to 20 grams

These limits apply irrespective of whether the jewellery is newly bought in Dubai or previously owned. If the gold jewellery falls within these limits, no customs duty is payable.

When Does Duty Become Payable?

If the weight of gold jewellery brought from Dubai exceeds the prescribed limit, customs duty is charged on the excess weight only. Travellers must declare such jewellery in the Indian Customs Declaration Form.

Customs duty is calculated based on the value of the excess jewellery, determined as per prevailing customs valuation rules. Failure to declare excess gold may lead to penalties, confiscation, or additional charges.

Declaration Is Mandatory

Even when carrying jewellery within permissible limits, passengers are required to disclose whether they are carrying jewellery beyond daily personal use. For jewellery above the duty-free threshold, travellers must clearly mention the total weight of personal jewellery and the total jewellery being carried.

The new rules aim to reduce unnecessary detention of goods by making declaration requirements clearer and more transparent.

Why This Matters for Dubai Gold Buyers

Dubai is known for its attractive gold rates, making it a preferred shopping destination for Indian travellers. The updated baggage rules provide certainty on how much gold jewellery can be brought back legally without duty, helping travellers plan their purchases better and avoid last-minute issues at customs.

Read more: Indian Govt Notifies Baggage Rules 2026: Duty-Free Limit Raised to ₹75,000.

Conclusion

The Baggage Rules 2026 bring welcome clarity for travellers carrying gold jewellery from Dubai. While limited quantities of gold jewellery can be brought duty-free, exceeding the prescribed limits will attract customs duty. Declaring jewellery honestly and understanding the weight thresholds is essential for a smooth arrival experience in India.

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