Things Not To Do In Dubai for a Smooth Travel Experience

Dubai, a glittering metropolis in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is known for its modern skyscrapers, luxurious lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage.

However, beneath its glamorous surface lies a strict adherence to cultural norms and laws that you must respect. As a tourist, understanding what not to do in Dubai is crucial to ensure a trouble-free and enjoyable experience.

This guide outlines key things not to do in Dubai to help travelers navigate the city with ease and cultural sensitivity. Here’s what it covers:

1. Do Not Use Your Left Hand To Greet Anyone

In Middle Eastern culture, the left hand is traditionally considered unclean due to its historical use in personal hygiene. Always use your right hand when greeting people, eating, or handing over items to show respect. Ignoring this custom may be perceived as rude or offensive, especially in formal settings.

2. Do Not Indulge In PDA

Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, can lead to fines or imprisonment. Holding hands is acceptable for married couples, but anything beyond that should be avoided. Always be mindful of your surroundings to avoid unnecessary trouble.

3. Do Not Dress Inappropriately

While Dubai is more liberal than other Gulf cities, modest attire is still expected. Avoid revealing clothing, such as shorts, tank tops, tight-fitting outfits, sleeveless shirts, especially in malls, markets, and religious sites. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches, pools, and waterparks, but it should not be worn in malls or city streets. Wearing respectful attire ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience in public places.

Suggested Read: How to Book Dubai Visa Appointment for Indians

4. Do Not Curse In Public

Getting into arguments or fights, even minor ones, can lead to arrest, fines, or deportation. Swearing, making rude gestures, or using offensive language in public are also punishable offences. Always maintain a respectful tone. Even casual use of profanity in conversations can be reported by locals.

5. Do Not Take Photographs Without Permission

Photography of government buildings, military sites, and strangers, especially women and children, is considered an invasion of privacy and is illegal. Do not take photos without permission. Always ask for consent before snapping photos of individuals and be mindful of signs indicating photography restrictions at certain sites. Violations can lead to serious legal consequences, including hefty fines.

6. Do Not Carry Prohibited Medicines

Some prescription medications legal elsewhere are banned in the UAE. Check this list for a detailed account of controlled medicines before traveling and carry a doctor’s prescription for permitted drugs. Carrying unapproved medication, even unknowingly, can result in detention at customs.

7. Do Not Eat-In Public During Ramadan

Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan is prohibited. Loud music, dancing, and parties should be kept to a minimum as a sign of respect for those observing the fast. You can eat in private spaces or designated restaurants that cater to non-Muslims. Dressing modestly and being discreet and respectful during this time is essential. Additionally, it is considered good manners to not refuse invitations to join others at Iftaar. Here is an official resource on Ramadan in UAE.

Suggested Read: Dubai Visa Photo Requirements for Indians

8. Do Not Make Rude Hand Gestures While Driving

Expressing frustration through rude hand gestures while driving can land you in serious legal trouble, including fines and deportation. Even minor road rage incidents can escalate quickly under UAE law.

9. Do Not Bring Prohibited Items

Dubai has strict customs regulations. Items such as drugs, pornography, explosives, and objects offensive to Islamic morals are strictly prohibited. Recreational drugs, including marijuana, are not allowed, and drug-related offenses are taken seriously, with severe penalties, including life imprisonment or even the death penalty for trafficking.. Always check the official guidelines before packing to avoid serious legal trouble.

10. Do Not Disrespect The Royal Family In Public

Criticizing or mocking the UAE royal family in public or on social media is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or deportation. Even sharing jokes or memes and showing disrespect in any form, including gestures, drawings, or statements, can have serious legal consequences. Avoid discussing sensitive political matters, passing negative remarks about the royal family, or engaging in debates about governance in public.

11. Do Not Cross-Dress

Cross-dressing is illegal in Dubai and can lead to arrest or deportation. Dress according to your gender identity while respecting local customs. Violations can result in immediate legal action and severe penalties.

Suggested Read: Dubai Visa Rejection for Indians

12. Do Not Drink In Public

While alcohol is available at licensed venues such as hotels and bars, drinking the same in public spaces is strictly prohibited. Public intoxication can lead to fines or arrest; therefore, consume alcohol responsibly within designated areas only. Always use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services if consuming alcohol to avoid legal trouble.

Suggested Read: Dubai 7 Days Itinerary

13. Do Not Dance In Public

Dancing in public places outside of licensed venues is considered provocative behavior and could attract unwanted attention from authorities. If you wish to dance, do so only within designated areas such as nightclubs or private events.

14. Do Not Disregard Traffic Rules

Dubai has strict traffic laws. Speeding, reckless or drunk driving, running red lights, and jaywalking are strictly forbidden, with a zero-tolerance policy that leads to heavy fines, imprisonment, and possible deportation. Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device is illegal. Always follow traffic regulations, as violations are monitored through an extensive CCTV network.

15. Do Not Use Social Media Irresponsibly

Criticizing the UAE government, sharing defamatory content, or posting offensive images on social media can lead to legal trouble. Avoid posting videos or any other content that could be deemed inappropriate or disrespectful. Taking unauthorized pictures of people, particularly women, and posting them online without consent is considered a crime. Even private messages and posts can be subject to scrutiny, so always think before you post.

Suggested Read: Dubai Visa Extension for Indians

16. Don’t Lose Track of Your Finances

Dubai is known for luxury shopping and experiences. Keep track of your spending to avoid financial stress. Budgeting in advance helps prevent overspending on expensive attractions and shopping sprees.

17. Don’t Disrespect Women

Treating women with respect is mandatory. Harassment or making inappropriate remarks can lead to serious legal consequences. Women’s rights are strongly protected under UAE law, and violations are taken very seriously.

18. Don’t Assume That Everything Is Permissible for Tourists

Gambling, certain streaming services, and same-sex relationships are restricted in Dubai. Do not assume that local laws would not be applied for tourists. Being uninformed about regulations does not exempt tourists from penalties.

19. Don’t Disrespect Local Laws and Customs

Dubai has strict laws against blasphemy and insulting Islam or Islamic practices and beliefs. Remain respectful towards local customs and traditions and refrain from making derogatory comments about Islam or engaging in debates that could offend locals. Familiarize yourself with the local regulations to avoid any legal complications.

Suggested Read: How to Check Dubai Visa Status in India

Why Choose OneVasco?

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey. 

• Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.
• Expert and Personalized Support 
• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process 
• Real-Time Tracking and Updates 
• Transparent Communication 
• Trusted by Millions

FAQs

What are the laws in Dubai for tourists?

Dubai has laws based on Islamic principles and federal laws of the UAE. Tourists should be aware of regulations regarding public behavior, dress code, alcohol consumption, photography, and respect for local customs.

Is it ok to wear shorts in Dubai?

Shorts are generally acceptable in tourist areas, but modest clothing is expected in public places, especially in religious sites or traditional areas.

Can unmarried couples go on holiday to Dubai?

Yes, as of recent changes in UAE law, unmarried couples are permitted to share a hotel room in Dubai.

Is it safe to visit Dubai as a solo traveler?

Dubai is considered a safe city for solo travelers, but it’s essential to remain vigilant, especially at night, and respect local customs.

What is the best month to go to Dubai?

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.

Can two male friends share a hotel room in Dubai?

Yes, there are no restrictions on male friends sharing a hotel room in Dubai.

What is not allowed in Dubai as a tourist?

Tourists are not allowed to engage in public displays of affection, consume alcohol in public, dress inappropriately, take photos without permission, use drugs, disrespect the royal family, or violate traffic laws.

What are the strict rules in Dubai?

Strict rules in Dubai include those related to public behavior, alcohol consumption, dress code, drug use, photography, social media usage, and respect for Islamic traditions and the ruling family.