Dubai Airport Reiterates Lithium Battery Travel Rules as Winter Passenger Traffic Increases: All You Need To Know

Published on December 22, 2025

Operational guidance related to lithium-powered devices has been reiterated for departing and transiting passengers. The advisory was circulated through Dubai Airport as part of a broader aviation safety awareness effort linked to battery-powered personal electronics commonly carried by air travellers. The reminder coincided with updated onboard power bank policies introduced earlier in October by Emirates and flydubai, reinforcing handling and packing requirements for lithium-ion batteries during air travel.

The renewed focus reflects ongoing efforts within global aviation to reduce risks associated with improperly packed or damaged battery-powered devices, particularly during periods of high passenger volumes.

Managing Personal Electronics in Modern Air Travel

The widespread use of lithium-ion batteries across consumer electronics has reshaped how travellers pack and organise their belongings. Devices such as smartphones, laptops, cameras, e-cigarettes, and portable chargers are now considered standard travel items rather than exceptions.

As reliance on these devices has grown, so too has the need for clear handling protocols during air travel. Proper placement, protective measures for spare batteries, and awareness of airline-specific restrictions form part of routine travel readiness for passengers navigating busy international hubs.

The emphasis placed on correct battery handling reflects the evolving nature of travel logistics, where safety considerations are integrated into everyday passenger behaviour rather than treated as isolated procedures.

Safety Guidelines for Lithium-Powered Devices During Air Travel

Passengers travelling through Dubai Airport during the peak winter season have been reminded to follow established safety practices when carrying lithium-powered items. These devices, which include mobile phones, laptops, cameras, power banks, and similar electronics, are required to remain in hand luggage rather than checked baggage.

Spare batteries are required to have their terminals protected to prevent short circuits. This can be achieved through insulation methods such as terminal covers or original packaging. Devices with battery capacities exceeding 100 watt-hours are subject to additional scrutiny and require prior approval from the operating airline.

Specific attention has also been directed toward gate-checked baggage procedures. Passengers have been advised to remove all lithium-powered devices before any bags are checked at the gate. Any device that appears damaged, overheated, or emits smoke is expected to be reported immediately to cabin crew.

The guidance further recommends limiting the number of spare batteries carried and verifying individual airline policies before travel, as requirements may vary by carrier and jurisdiction.

Updated Power Bank Policies From Emirates and flydubai

Changes implemented by Emirates and flydubai in October introduced additional restrictions on power bank usage and placement onboard aircraft. Under the revised rules, each passenger is permitted to carry only one power bank, provided it does not exceed a capacity of 100 watt-hours.

Power banks are not permitted to be charged during the flight and are not allowed to be stored in overhead compartments. Instead, they must be kept under the seat throughout the journey. Placement of power banks in checked baggage remains strictly prohibited under the updated policies.

These measures align with wider aviation safety practices aimed at reducing fire-related risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, particularly during long-haul and high-density travel periods.

Travel Awareness During Peak Seasonal Movement

Periods of increased travel activity often bring heightened attention to operational safety measures within airports and aircraft cabins. During the winter season, passenger volumes typically rise as leisure and visiting travel demand increases, placing greater emphasis on consistent adherence to carry-on and packing regulations.

Battery-powered devices form an essential part of modern travel, supporting navigation, communication, and personal convenience. As such, ensuring these items are handled in accordance with aviation safety guidance has become a routine component of travel preparation. Awareness campaigns circulated during peak seasons aim to reinforce compliance without disrupting passenger movement.

By reiterating standard safety procedures during high-traffic periods, airports and airlines seek to maintain smooth operations while reducing the likelihood of onboard incidents linked to improperly handled electronic devices.

Data Highlights the Importance of Compliance

Research referenced by the International Air Transport Association indicates that while awareness of battery-related travel rules is widespread, incorrect packing remains a common issue. According to the data, a significant majority of travellers report familiarity with lithium battery regulations, yet nearly half continue to pack devices incorrectly, most frequently placing them in checked baggage.

This gap between awareness and compliance underscores the continued relevance of airport-led reminders and airline policy updates, particularly during high-demand travel seasons. Reinforcing consistent messaging aims to reduce risk while accommodating the growing presence of personal electronics in air travel.

Image Source: AI