Gold shipments through Dubai, a significant global trading center supplying countries like Switzerland, Hong Kong, and India, have faced disruptions for approximately 10 days. This situation arose after the US–Israeli conflict over Iran caused numerous flight cancellations across the Middle East.
“A discount persists in the market, but due to thin trading, price variations can be significant, fluctuating between $10 and $30 per troy ounce,” a bullion dealer based in Dubai stated in the report.
Demand remains lackluster in both India, a major gold-consuming market, and the Middle East, as buyers hesitate to make purchases amid ongoing price volatility, the dealer remarked.
Spot gold prices in London have fallen nearly 6% since the initial surge as a safe haven following the conflict’s onset on February 28. The latest price for bullion was around $5,109 per troy ounce.
In this context, travelers going to the Gulf, a popular destination for Indian gold purchasers, may be curious about the amount of gold they can bring back to India.
Duty-free allowance for travelers
According to India’s updated baggage regulations, passengers returning from international trips are permitted to bring a specific amount of gold without incurring customs duty, subject to conditions like the length of their stay abroad.
As per the tax advisory service ClearTax, the duty-free limits are outlined as follows:
- Male passengers: Allowed to bring up to 20 grams of gold jewelry duty-free.
- Female passengers: Can bring up to 40 grams of gold jewelry without paying customs duty.
Travelers must keep purchase invoices and purity details for customs verification upon arrival in India.
If you exceed the duty-free allowance
Passengers can carry more gold than the duty-free limit, but customs duty applies to the quantity that exceeds this allowance.
Gold beyond the permitted duty-free limit must be declared at the red channel in airports. Not declaring dutiable gold could result in penalties or confiscation as per customs regulations.
Given that Dubai is often a primary bullion hub for India, the current price discount may attract buyers. However, travelers should consider the customs rules and associated duties before making purchases abroad.
First Published: Mar 10, 2026 9:03 AM IST
