Gold From Dubai: Kerala Travelers Face No Change in Duty Allowances - what are the current laws?

For many Keralites, a trip to Dubai is synonymous with dazzling gold souks and the allure of bringing back precious ornaments. However, navigating customs regulations with these treasures can be confusing. Here's a breakdown of the current duty-free allowances for gold ornaments travelers can carry between Kerala and Dubai, as no recent updates have been implemented.

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) of India dictates the guidelines for duty-free allowances. It's important to remember that these allowances apply to all Indian airports, including those in Kerala. 

Understanding the Duty-Free Limits:

The amount of gold jewellery you can bring back duty-free depends on your gender and residency status:

Male Passengers:  If you've been residing outside India for more than a year, you can bring back gold jewellery worth up to ₹50,000 (roughly equivalent to 20 grams of gold) without paying customs duty. 

Female Passengers:  Female passengers who have resided abroad for more than a year enjoy a higher duty-free allowance of ₹1,00,000 (approximately 40 grams of gold) on gold jewelry.

Exceeding the Allowance:

If your gold ornaments exceed the aforementioned limits, customs duty will be levied on the excess amount.  It's crucial to declare all the gold you're carrying at customs to avoid any complications. The customs department will assess the value of your gold and calculate the applicable duty.  

Planning Your Purchase:

Here are some additional points to keep in mind when planning your gold purchase in Dubai:

Proof of Purchase:  Always carry receipts or bills from the Dubai jeweler as proof of purchase and value for any gold exceeding the duty-free limit. This documentation will help facilitate a smooth customs clearance process.

Gold Purity and Value:  Be aware of the current gold prices in both India and Dubai. This will help you determine if there's a significant price difference that justifies the purchase after considering the duty implications. You can find reliable gold price information from resources like https://www.goodreturns.in/topic/gold-price or https://www.cnbc.com/quotes/XAU=

Declare All Valuables:  Customs regulations in India extend beyond gold. Remember to declare other valuables you're carrying, such as electronics, perfumes, and branded goods, to avoid any issues at customs. You can find a comprehensive list of dutiable items on the Indian Customs Department website https://www.cbic.gov.in/

Staying Updated:

While there haven't been any recent changes, customs regulations can be subject to revisions.  For the most up-to-date information on duty allowances, it's always recommended to consult the official resources of the Indian government:

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) website: [https://www.cbic.gov.in/](https://www.cbic.gov.in/)

Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi: [Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. customs guide for travellers ON indembassyuae.gov.in]

By understanding these regulations and planning your purchase carefully, Kerala travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience while bringing back their precious gold finds from Dubai.