Yes,
Balisongs are legal in the UAE under strict conditions, but their import, sale, or possession requires prior approval from the Ministry of Interior (MOI) and adherence to Federal Law No. 3 of 2022 on Weapons and Ammunition. Recent 2026 compliance directives mandate enhanced verification for folding knives with blades exceeding 3 inches, aligning with heightened security protocols. Unauthorized possession risks confiscation or criminal liability under local emirate-level enforcement.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in United Arab Emirates
- Licensing Requirement: Possession or sale mandates a valid MOI-issued permit, with applications evaluated for legitimate purposes (e.g., collection or professional use). Tourists may not qualify under temporary visa terms.
- Blade Length Restrictions: Knives with blades over 3 inches (7.62 cm) trigger enhanced scrutiny; those under this threshold face fewer restrictions but still require registration.
- Prohibited Use: Carrying balisongs in public without justification (e.g., concealed or during high-security events) violates Federal Decree-Law No. 21 of 2023 on Cybercrimes and related local ordinances. Law enforcement may detain individuals for “suspicious intent” under Dubai Police Circular 2024-12.