Firearms in Dubai: Quick Guide to Laws, Licences and Regulations

If you’re curious about guns in Dubai, you’re probably wondering how strict the rules are and whether you can actually own a weapon for sport or protection. The short answer is: Dubai has very tight control over firearms. The government only lets a few people hold a licence, and the process is packed with checks and training requirements. Below you’ll find the key points you need to stay on the right side of the law.

Who Can Own a Firearm?

Only UAE nationals, long‑term residents and certain professionals such as security officers can apply for a gun licence. Tourists and short‑term visitors are completely excluded. Even for eligible residents, you must be at least 21 years old, have a clean criminal record, and pass a thorough medical exam. The authorities also look at your reason for wanting a gun – sport shooting or personal protection are the only accepted purposes.

How to Get a Licence

The licence process starts with an application at the Dubai Police General Department. You’ll need to submit ID copies, a passport‑size photo, proof of residence, and a letter stating why you need a firearm. After that, you undergo a background check, a psychological assessment, and a mandatory safety‑training course that covers handling, storage and legal responsibilities. Once you pass, you pay a fee that can range from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000 depending on the weapon type. The licence is valid for three years and must be renewed with a repeat of the medical and training checks.

Not all guns are permitted. Fully automatic weapons, high‑capacity magazines and large‑calibre rifles are banned outright. The most common licences cover handguns up to .38 calibre, shotguns for hunting, and specific rifles used in approved shooting clubs. Importing a firearm requires a special permit from the Ministry of Interior, and the weapon must be registered with the police before it can be used.

Violating the rules can lead to severe penalties. Illegal possession carries a prison sentence of up to five years, hefty fines, and a permanent ban on future licences. Even a minor breach, like storing a gun without a locked safe, can result in fines and possible confiscation. The Dubai Police conduct regular audits at shooting ranges and private homes to make sure owners follow the storage guidelines.

Bottom line: getting a firearm in Dubai is possible, but only if you meet strict eligibility criteria, complete extensive training, and respect the storage and usage laws. If you’re serious about sport shooting, join a licensed club first – they’ll guide you through the paperwork and help you stay compliant. Anything less than full compliance puts you at risk of heavy fines or jail time, so it’s worth doing it right the first time.