Dubai Hotel Guidelines: What You Must Know Before Booking

Planning a trip to Dubai? The city’s hotels are world‑class, but they also have a handful of rules that can surprise first‑timers. Knowing the basics saves you time, money, and awkward moments at the front desk.

Check‑In, ID & Payment Basics

Almost every hotel in Dubai asks for a passport, a credit card for incidentals, and sometimes a local contact number. If you’re staying for less than a week, be ready to pay the full amount upfront or provide a pre‑authorisation. Some budget hotels may only accept cash, so carry a little extra just in case.

Don’t forget to ask about the check‑in window. While most places start at 2 pm, a few boutique spots open at 3 pm. Arriving early? You might be charged a “early‑check‑in” fee or asked to wait in the lobby.

Visitor Policies: Can Your Partner Stay?

Unmarried couples can share a room in most Dubai hotels, but a few upscale resorts still request proof of marriage. The safest move is to confirm the policy when you book. If you’re travelling with a friend of the opposite sex, you’ll usually need to present both passports at check‑in.

Two men sharing a room is completely fine and common among business travelers. The same goes for same‑sex couples—most hotels treat them like any other guests, though the level of discretion can vary. If privacy matters, ask the front desk about “discrete rooms” or request a higher floor.

When you have a visitor staying overnight, the hotel may charge a small fee and require the visitor’s ID. This applies to friends, relatives, or even a partner after hours. Some properties allow “day visitors” without extra cost, but they must leave before the designated night‑time curfew, usually around 10 pm.

Smoking is another hot topic. Most hotels enforce a strict non‑smoking policy inside rooms and public areas. Designated smoking zones are often on balconies or outside the lobby. If you light up where it’s not allowed, expect a cleaning fee that can reach up to 300 AED.

Alcohol consumption follows the same rule—only licensed hotel bars and restaurants can serve drinks. Bringing your own bottles into the room is prohibited and can lead to fines. If you’re attending a private party, verify that the venue permits alcohol before you bring any.

Pets are rarely allowed, except for service animals with proper documentation. Some boutique hotels welcome small cats or dogs for an extra fee, but you’ll need to inform them in advance.

Lastly, be aware of noise curfews. Most hotels ask guests to keep noise down after 10 pm, especially in shared corridors. If you’re planning a celebration, book a suite or a room with a private balcony to avoid complaints.

By checking these guidelines ahead of time, you’ll breeze through check‑in, avoid surprise charges, and enjoy a hassle‑free stay in Dubai’s glittering hotels.