10 Rules to Avoid Jail in Dubai

If you are considering travelling to the UAE or moving there for work, it is best to keep some dos and don’ts in mind. Dubai is predominantly a Muslim country, and with this comes traditions and laws unlike other countries. To ensure a memorable stay in Dubai (for all the right reasons) the 10 rules below will help keep both Emirati nationals and travellers happy.

What to wear in Dubai

Like all countries within the UAE, Emiratis in Dubai dress conservatively or in traditional wear. Expats and tourists visiting the country are expected to adhere to these same rules. It is imperative to dress appropriately in public areas such as shopping malls and restaurants.

Generally, nothing should be too short, i.e. not above the knees, shoulders should be covered, and the material should not be see-through – this applies to men and women. Clothes emblazoned with logos or slogans that could be offensive should be avoided. It can be best to follow these rules in every public area, but modest clothing will be a must if you visit historical and/or cultural sites. If you visit a mosque, arms and legs will need to be completely covered and women may be asked to wear a headscarf.

Tasteful swim shorts, bikinis and swimsuits are suitable for the beach, poolside or at water parks. Once visitors have left these areas, they must cover their bodies with appropriate clothing. Topless sunbathing will be viewed as public indecency, and you could end up in prison.

You can find out more information in our guide on what to wear in Dubai as a tourist or expat.

Religious considerations in Dubai

Despite Dubai being a Muslim nation, expatriates and visitors are allowed to follow their own religion without repercussions.

Muslims are called to pray five times a day and expats and visitors should not disturb roads and areas around Mosques.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Throughout this period eating, drinking, smoking, playing loud music and dancing in public places during daylight hours is strictly forbidden. Muslims and non-Muslims will face punishment by law for breaking these rules.

Dubai rules for couples

Sexual relationships or unmarried couples cohabiting is illegal in Dubai. Cohabiting, including in hotels, is also illegal, however, most hotels in Dubai do not enforce an ‘only married couples’ rule. The luxury hotels which mostly cater to foreigners are especially relaxed. At check-in to these hotels, guests will be required to show their passports, but having different surnames will not raise any eyebrows.

Some visitors refer to their partners as ‘Husband’ and ‘Wife’ during their time in Dubai, as opposed to ‘my girlfriend’ or ‘my fiancé’. This can help prevent potential problems and give visitors peace of mind.

If you are a married couple, the extent of your public displays of affection is limited to hand-holding. Couples who are not married cannot engage in any form of public affection. Kissing and hugging in public is not tolerated and couples who are caught could be fined or imprisoned.

Is it illegal to be gay in Dubai?

Homosexuality is a criminal offence in Dubai and travellers can be deported, imprisoned or fined. Same-sex couples travelling to Dubai could find it beneficial to book a room with twin beds to avoid issues. As with unmarried heterosexual couples, public displays of affection should be avoided.

Sexual harassment in Dubai

In Dubai no man should address an Emirati lady in public if he does not know her. Furthermore, following a lady or taking photos of her without permission is viewed as disrespectful and unacceptable behaviour.

Can you drink in Dubai?

Alcohol is not illegal in Dubai but there are several rules pertaining to consumption. Non-Muslims are allowed to drink alcohol in licensed areas, usually hotel restaurants, bars and clubs. These facilities must hold a license to serve alcohol.

In Dubai, it is illegal to purchase alcohol and consume it in your own home. However, nationals can apply for a liquor license so that alcohol can be bought and enjoyed at home.

In the UK, you are deemed safe to drive if less than 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. However, Dubai has a zero-tolerance stance. If you are caught driving in Dubai with any trace of alcohol in your system you will be imprisoned and, if not an Emirati, face deportation.

Being drunk in public is also not tolerated and you can be arrested. Particularly if caught making a scene or acting inappropriately.

You can find out more information in our Guide to Alcohol in Dubai.

Are drugs banned in Dubai?

Drugs are strictly forbidden in Dubai, even some prescription medications. Consuming, carrying, buying or selling narcotics is a serious crime that can face life imprisonment.

In terms of prescription drugs, anything containing codeine is forbidden for personal use. However, it can be used with a specific doctor’s prescription detailing the period of use. It is best to check the banned substances list from your embassy.

For those who will be using prescription drugs whilst visiting Dubai, it is best to carry a doctor’s note. The letter should mention the period of travel, the illness, and the specific dosage. You will only be able to bring in enough drugs to cover your trip, and no more.

You can find out more in our blog Which Medications Are You Allowed to Take into Dubai?

Hand and feet etiquette in Dubai

In Dubai, you should accept refreshments and food whenever it is offered. However, it is best to use your right hand for drinking and eating as the left hand is regarded unclean by Muslims as it is used for hygiene purposes.

Visitors should also refrain from showing the soles of shoes or their feet, as this would indicate to an Emirati that you think they are ‘dirt’. Keeping feet flat on the ground and not crossing your legs is a great way to avoid offending anybody.

However, Emiratis are fully aware that expats and visitors may slip up from time to time and will not take any offence. Mostly it is the traditional areas where etiquette should be followed more closely.

Cheques in Dubai

Compared to other countries, cheques are widely used in Dubai. Expats often use them as they can struggle to get credit. However, bouncing a cheque is illegal in the UAE. If a cheque is presented without adequate funds to cover the amount, individuals could face criminal charges. In Dubai, a cheque is classed as a financial agreement in the eyes of the law. If the person ends up serving a jail sentence, they will not be able to leave the country until the funds have been paid in full.

Is it illegal to swear in Dubai?

Public profanities can earn travellers 30 days in prison in Dubai. Although attitudes towards vulgar language can be somewhere blasé in the UK, you will need to be more careful in Dubai to avoid causing offence and even jail time.

Any individual who spouts blasphemous remarks about Islam should be prepared to face serious repercussions; many foreigners have been jailed for making off-the-cuff comments. It is best to adopt a little cultural sensitivity and use your common sense.

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