Dubai Hotel Laws: The Essentials for Every Guest

If you’re heading to Dubai, the hotel scene feels luxurious, but there are rules that can catch first‑time visitors off guard. Knowing the basics can save you from awkward moments, extra fees, or even a fine. Below we break down the most common hotel regulations, from who can stay in a room to what you can bring inside.

Who Can Stay in the Room? Unmarried Couples & Visitors

Dubai hotels generally allow unmarried couples to share a room, but each property sets its own policy. Most mid‑range and high‑end hotels will ask for both guests' passports at check‑in. Some may require a marriage certificate for couples who appear to be married; it’s rarely enforced, but having it handy can smooth things over.

Having a friend or partner visit you in the room is usually fine, but there are a few things to watch:

• ID check: The visitor may be asked to show a passport or Emirates ID, especially after 10 pm.
• Extra charges: Some hotels charge a small fee for an additional overnight guest; others allow one extra person for free.
• Room occupancy limits: Most rooms are meant for two occupants. Adding a third person without permission can lead to a fine.

When in doubt, call the front desk before the visit. A quick confirmation avoids surprises.

Alcohol, Smoking, and Other Common Questions

Drinking alcohol inside a hotel room is permitted at most five‑star and many four‑star properties. The key is to keep the consumption private—no open bottles in common areas. Some hotels provide mini‑bars with a limited selection; if you bring your own liquor, check the hotel’s policy first.

Smoking rules are stricter. Only designated smoking areas or rooms labeled “smoking allowed” let you light up. If you’re caught smoking in a non‑smoking room, you could face a cleaning surcharge up to 5,000 AED.

Other items to watch:

• Vaping: E‑cigarettes are allowed in most rooms, but check for signs that forbid vaping.
• Chewing gum: No law bans gum, but it’s polite to keep it out of public areas.
• Pets: Only hotels with a pet‑friendly tag will let you bring a small animal, often with an extra fee.

And remember, Dubai’s noise curfew starts at 10 pm in many residential towers. If you’re staying in an apartment‑style hotel, keep TV volume low and avoid loud music.

Overall, the best strategy is simple: read the hotel’s FAQ, keep your passport handy, and respect the spaces marked “no smoking” or “no alcohol.” Most staff are friendly and will guide you if you ask politely. By following these basics, you’ll enjoy a smooth stay and focus on the fun parts of Dubai – the skyline, the food, and the shopping.