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DubaiTravel

by Barbara Yakimchuk

Flying From the UAE? New Rules On Liquids And Power Banks

20 Aug 2025

Photo: Karolina Grabowska

In the past few weeks, two major updates to flights from Dubai have made the headlines: changes to liquid limits in cabin luggage and new restrictions on carrying power banks.
For most passengers, these changes might pass unnoticed. But for aerophobes (yes, that includes me!), they can feel unsettling. Why were these updates introduced? Do they really make flying safer, or could they add new risks?
If you have ever wondered the same, keep reading. And even if you aren't a nervous flyer, the story behind these changes is still interesting — so you are welcome here too.

Liquids in carry-on baggage

What is changing?
By the end of 2025, the long-standing 100 milliliter liquid rule for carry-on baggage will be updated. The new allowance will increase to 2 litres, meaning passengers will finally be able to bring along full-sized perfumes, water bottles, and toiletries.
Another major change is that travellers will no longer need to remove electronics or liquids from their bags at security. Thanks to new scanners, these items can be analysed directly inside the luggage.
Why is this happening?
The update comes with the introduction of next-generation 3D computed tomography (CT) scanners — specifically the HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX — now being installed across Dubai International Airport. These scanners, powered by AI, provide a far more accurate picture of what is inside each bag.
For those concerned about safety: the change doesn’t weaken security — in fact, it strengthens it. Threat detection becomes more precise and less dependent on human error.
Where is it happening?
The new system is already being rolled out at Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminals 1 and 3. Dubai is joining leading airports in Europe and the United States, which are also moving towards CT-based screening system.
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Source: mentalfloss.com

Power bank restrictions

What is changing?
UAE airlines have introduced stricter rules on carrying and using portable chargers onboard. Using a power bank to charge devices — or charging the power bank itself — is now prohibited during the flight.
The rules on carrying power banks have also been tightened. While power banks were previously allowed anywhere in carry-on luggage, they must now be stored only under the seat or in the seat pocket in front of you — overhead lockers are no longer permitted. In addition, each passenger may carry only one power bank with a capacity of up to 100 Watt.
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Photo: I'M ZION

Why is this happening?
Power banks run on lithium-ion batteries, which carry a risk of overheating — especially if damaged or in use. This can trigger what is known as the "thermal runaway effect": when a battery overheats uncontrollably, the temperature keeps rising until the cell ignites or even explodes, releasing flames and toxic gases. Several recent incidents have reinforced the need for stricter rules:
  • KLM (5 August 2025): A power bank ignited mid-flight, filling the cabin with smoke. The crew acted swiftly and doused the flames with water.
  • Virgin Australia (21 July 2025): A fire broke out in an overhead locker due to a power bank. The crew extinguished the blaze, and the aircraft landed safely.
  • Air Busan (28 January 2025): Shortly before take-off, an Airbus A321 suffered a serious fire caused by a power bank stored in an overhead locker. All 169 passengers and seven crew members were evacuated, with three sustaining minor injuries.
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Source: us.cnn.com

Although the UAE’s new regulations officially come into effect in October 2025, airlines are already enforcing them. And I can confirm this from my own experience — on a recent FlyDubai flight, crew members announced the rule before take-off, with reminders also shown on the in-flight screens during all the flight.
Where is this happening?
These rules apply across all UAE airlines — Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai, and Air Arabia. The UAE isn't alone, however: similar restrictions have already been introduced by other major carriers, including Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.
Small note for anxious flyers
Anxious flyers might wonder: what happens if someone packs a power bank in their checked baggage without telling the airline?
In practice, all checked luggage is scanned before being loaded. If a power bank is detected, the passenger is called to remove it and place it in their carry-on. If the passenger can't be reached, the suitcase will simply not be loaded onto the aircraft.