United Arab Emirates bans lithium batteries for energy storage

Can you take power banks on a plane in UAE?

Power banks must stay in hand baggage under the seat or in the seat pocket, not overhead. Following Emirates’ recent announcement on power bank restrictions, flydubai has issued updated guidelines for passengers travelling from 1 October 2025. The move comes as UAE airlines tighten rules on the use of portable batteries onboard for safety reasons.

How many lithium ion batteries can a passenger carry?

In general, most airlines allow each passenger to carry a maximum of two lithium-ion power banks of 100-160 Watt-hour (Wh) into the cabin. However, most power banks on the market use the unit milliamperes per hour (mAh) to measure the battery’s capacity. So, look for ones that are no more than about 43,000 mAh to comply with most airline rules.

Why are lithium-ion batteries used in power banks?

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in power banks due to their high energy density and relatively low cost, according to Chrystal Zhang, associate professor, STEM College at RMIT University. The batteries can store a large amount of power without being excessively bulky, making them a popular choice for high-capacity power banks.

Can you carry lithium batteries on a plane?

Travelers often pack lithium-ion battery power banks to charge their devices. Several airlines in Asia are tightening rules on carrying lithium batteries on planes following a series of overheating and fire incidents on board.