What Are the Don'ts in Dubai? Essential Rules Every Visitor Must Know
Nov, 15 2025
Dubai is a city of contrasts-glittering skyscrapers, desert dunes, luxury malls, and deep-rooted traditions. But beneath the glamour lies a strict legal and cultural framework that visitors often misunderstand. Many tourists arrive thinking Dubai is like any other global city, only to face fines, detention, or deportation for simple mistakes. The truth is, Dubai doesn’t tolerate disrespect for its laws, religion, or social norms. Whether you’re here for business, tourism, or transit, knowing what not to do can save you from serious trouble.
Don’t Publicly Display Affection
Holding hands with your partner is generally okay, but anything beyond that-kissing, hugging, or even prolonged physical contact-is considered offensive. In public spaces like malls, metro stations, or beaches, even a quick peck on the cheek can draw attention from authorities. In 2023, a British couple was fined over 2,000 AED and deported after being caught kissing at a popular beach. Public displays of affection are not just frowned upon-they’re illegal under Article 357 of the UAE Penal Code. This rule applies to everyone, regardless of nationality or religion. If you’re with your partner, keep it subtle. Save the romance for your hotel room.Don’t Take Photos of People Without Permission
Dubai has strict privacy laws. Taking a photo of a local woman, especially one wearing traditional attire like an abaya, without asking is a major offense. Even photographing government buildings, military sites, or police stations can land you in serious trouble. In 2024, a tourist was arrested for snapping a picture of the Dubai Police Headquarters from a rooftop. The penalty? Up to six months in jail and a fine of 50,000 AED. Always ask before taking photos of people, and never point your camera at anything that looks official or secure. If in doubt, don’t shoot.Don’t Drink Alcohol in Public or Without a License
Alcohol is legal in Dubai-but only in very specific places. You can drink in licensed hotels, bars, or private clubs. But walking down the street with a bottle, drinking in a park, or consuming alcohol in your car is illegal. Tourists often assume that because they’re in a luxury city, alcohol rules are relaxed. They’re not. In 2025, over 300 foreigners were arrested for public drinking in Dubai alone. To legally buy alcohol, you need an official liquor license, which is only available to residents. Tourists can buy alcohol at duty-free shops in the airport, but you must take it straight to your hotel. Never open a bottle in public. The penalties include jail time and deportation.Don’t Use Profanity or Raise Your Voice in Public
Dubai has zero tolerance for verbal aggression. Swearing, yelling in anger, or even speaking loudly in a public space can be considered insulting behavior. In 2023, a group of tourists was detained after arguing loudly in a taxi-because they used the word “f***” during their argument. The driver reported them. Under UAE law, verbal insults are treated as criminal offenses. Even if you’re just frustrated by traffic or a long queue, keep your voice low and your temper in check. What might seem like normal frustration back home could be seen as a threat here.
Don’t Bring Drugs Into the Country-Even Prescription Medications
Dubai has some of the strictest drug laws in the world. Possession of even a single pill of a controlled substance can lead to a minimum of four years in prison. This includes common medications like Adderall, Xanax, or codeine-based cough syrups. Many travelers don’t realize that drugs legal in their home countries are banned here. Always check the UAE’s list of controlled substances before packing. If you need prescription medication, carry a doctor’s note and the original packaging. Even then, some medications are still prohibited. It’s better to leave them behind and get local alternatives if needed.Don’t Dress Inappropriately in Public Places
While Dubai is modern, it’s still a Muslim country with conservative values. In public areas like malls, markets, or government buildings, avoid wearing revealing clothing. That means no bare shoulders, short shorts, mini skirts, or tight outfits. Beachwear is fine only on designated beaches or at hotel pools. Walking through the Dubai Mall in a crop top and shorts will draw stares-and possibly a warning from security. In 2024, a female tourist was asked to leave a museum because her dress was deemed too short. Cover your shoulders and knees when not at the beach or pool. It’s not about judgment-it’s about respect.Don’t Eat, Drink, or Smoke in Public During Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Non-Muslims are not required to fast, but they are legally required to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. This includes sitting in a car with a drink or chewing gum on the street. Violating this rule can result in fines or arrest. Even if you’re in a hotel, don’t eat in the lobby or hallway during fasting hours. Some hotels have private dining areas for non-Muslims-ask staff. The same applies to smoking. It’s not just about law-it’s about showing respect to the local community during their most sacred time.Don’t Use Your Phone While Driving
Using your phone while driving-even at a red light-is illegal in Dubai. The penalty? A 800 AED fine and 4 black points on your license. Repeat offenders face license suspension. Police use automated cameras and patrols to catch offenders. Even holding your phone to check a map is enough to get you pulled over. Use hands-free systems or pull over safely before using your phone. Dubai takes road safety seriously. One distracted driver can cause a chain reaction in this high-speed city.
Don’t Criticize the Government, Religion, or Royalty
Dubai’s political and religious systems are deeply protected by law. Making jokes about the royal family, Islam, or government policies-even in private conversations-can lead to arrest. Social media posts that are seen as disrespectful are also monitored. In 2025, a Canadian tourist was detained after posting a sarcastic comment about Dubai’s traffic laws on Instagram. He didn’t realize his post was tagged with a local hashtag and flagged by authorities. Avoid political talk, religious debates, or mocking local customs. When in doubt, stay neutral. Curiosity is fine; criticism is not.Don’t Assume All Rules Are the Same as Home
Many visitors assume Dubai is a Western-style city with liberal attitudes. It’s not. Dubai blends global modernity with strict Islamic values. What’s normal in New York, London, or Sydney may be illegal here. Don’t rely on assumptions. Before you arrive, read up on local laws. Talk to your hotel staff. Ask questions. The more you understand, the less likely you are to make a mistake. Dubai doesn’t warn you twice. One misstep can ruin your trip-or your freedom.What Happens If You Break the Rules?
Penalties vary depending on the offense. Minor violations like dressing too casually might just get you a warning. But serious offenses-public intoxication, drug possession, or insulting Islam-can lead to jail, fines, or deportation. Tourists have been detained for months while cases are processed. Your embassy might help, but they can’t override UAE law. The best defense? Know the rules before you go.Can I hold hands with my partner in Dubai?
Yes, holding hands is generally acceptable. But avoid kissing, hugging, or any overt physical affection in public. What’s considered romantic in other countries may be seen as offensive here. Keep it subtle.
Is it legal to bring prescription drugs to Dubai?
Only if they’re on the approved list and you have a doctor’s note with the original packaging. Many common medications-including ADHD pills, painkillers, and anxiety meds-are banned. Always check the UAE’s controlled substances list before traveling.
Can tourists buy alcohol in Dubai?
Tourists can buy alcohol at duty-free shops in the airport but cannot drink it in public. To consume alcohol legally, you must be in a licensed venue like a hotel bar. No liquor license is required for tourists to drink in these places, but you cannot take bottles to your room unless you’re a resident.
What should I wear in Dubai’s malls?
Cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid tight clothing, short shorts, or revealing tops. Most malls have a relaxed dress code compared to religious sites, but conservative attire is still expected. When in doubt, choose loose, modest clothing.
Is it okay to take photos of the Burj Khalifa?
Yes, you can photograph the Burj Khalifa and other landmarks from public areas. But never photograph military installations, police stations, or government buildings. Security cameras and patrols are everywhere-don’t risk it.