
21/03/2025
Official: Dubai Fountain to close for six months from 19 April
News
What are the bans in Dubai?
Copy link
A trip to Dubai can be an unforgettable experience, as long as you respect local laws and cultural norms. Keep in mind that the restrictions for tourists are quite strict, and breaking them can lead to significant consequences. Therefore, it is advisable to carefully read up on the local regulations before your trip to avoid unpleasant situations and fully enjoy your stay in this extraordinary city. It is also a good idea to check which activities are prohibited in Dubai to avoid making any mistakes unknowingly.
When in Dubai, it is worth paying special attention to the rules that apply in public spaces. Here are the most important things to avoid:
1. Public displays of affection: Gestures such as kissing or hugging in public places may be considered inappropriate. In shopping centers or on public transportation, this type of behavior may result in a warning from security personnel. In extreme cases, violating the rules of conduct can lead to a fine or even legal consequences.
2. Alcohol consumption: Alcohol may only be consumed in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and selected restaurants. Drinking alcohol in public places such as beaches, parks or streets is prohibited. It is also worth remembering that drunk driving is severely punished and even the smallest amount of alcohol in the blood can lead to serious legal consequences.
3. Possession and use of drugs: Dubai has extremely strict laws regarding the possession of even small amounts of drugs. This can result in a hefty fine or even years in prison. The regulations also apply to some prescription drugs – before traveling, it is worth making sure that the medicines you are bringing into the country are not on the list of prohibited substances.
Not sure which medicines you can take to Dubai? Check out the article “List of drugs banned in Dubai.”
4. Taking unauthorized photos: Taking photos of people without their explicit consent, especially women, can be seen as an invasion of privacy and can have serious legal consequences. You should also avoid taking photos of government buildings, military facilities, and critical infrastructure such as airports and police stations.
5. Insulting Islam and its symbols: religion plays an extremely important role in Dubai, therefore any comments, gestures or actions considered offensive to Islam, its symbols, the Prophet Muhammad or the holy books can lead to severe legal consequences, including imprisonment. You should be especially careful in conversations as well as in posts on social media.
6. Foul gestures and swearing: Avoid any form of aggression or vulgarity in both speech and gestures. The use of foul language, rude gestures, or even arguments in public places can result in a fine or, in more serious cases, deportation.
7. Behavior on the beach: When visiting the beach, it is important to follow the dress code and behavior rules. Topless sunbathing, revealing swimwear, or noisy behavior can be frowned upon by both locals and security personnel.
Even though Dubai is a modern and cosmopolitan city, there are still certain dress codes that should be followed to avoid misunderstandings or unpleasant situations. Although in many places, especially in tourist areas, these rules are quite liberal, in more traditional areas or public institutions, the dress code should be adapted to local customs.
Dubai has strict laws and the penalties for various offenses can be very severe. Depending on the type of offense or crime, the consequences can include fines, arrest, deportation, and even prison sentences. It is worth remembering that even unintentional violations of the law can lead to serious consequences, so it is worth familiarizing yourself with local regulations before traveling.
Where can alcohol be consumed? Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed establishments such as bars, restaurants and hotels with the appropriate permits. It is not allowed to drink alcohol in public places such as beaches, parks or streets, and even carrying alcohol in a visible place can result in a fine. Furthermore, intoxicated behavior in public, even if the alcohol was legally consumed, can lead to arrest.
1. Is it acceptable to show affection in public in Dubai?
Showing affection in public, such as kissing or hugging, is not advisable in Dubai and may be perceived as inappropriate behavior. In more conservative places, such as shopping centers or public transportation, such gestures may be frowned upon by residents.
2. Can I smoke e-cigarettes in Dubai?
Yes, e-cigarettes are allowed in Dubai, but they are strictly regulated. They are not allowed in public places such as shopping malls, government offices or public transportation, and you may be fined if you break the rules. In addition, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the current customs regulations before traveling, as there may be restrictions on importing larger quantities of liquids for e-cigarettes.
3. What are the most important prohibitions in Dubai?
Dubai has strict prohibitions on alcohol consumption in public places, public displays of affection, and the possession and use of drugs, which carry heavy penalties and even deportation. It is also forbidden to insult Islam or the authorities or to use vulgar gestures and language in public places. Furthermore, restrictions also apply to clothing – overly revealing outfits may be met with negative social reactions or punishment.
4. Can I drink alcohol in Dubai?
Alcohol can be purchased in Dubai, but its consumption is only allowed in licensed establishments such as hotels, restaurants and bars. Drinking alcohol in public places such as beaches or streets is prohibited and punishable by law.
See also
21/03/2025
Official: Dubai Fountain to close for six months from 19 April
21/03/2025
Catalonia increases tourist tax
21/03/2025
Heathrow Airport closed until the end of the day due to a fire
20/03/2025
Sharia law in Dubai – what do you need to know?
20/03/2025
Is Dubai expensive? Living and tourism costs
20/03/2025
How old is Dubai?
20/03/2025
How much does a trip to Dubai cost?
20/03/2025
How much does a gram of gold cost in Dubai?
20/03/2025
Alcohol prices at Dubai airport
20/03/2025
Can I take seashells out of Dubai? Customs regulations