While Dubai is a stunning destination known for its beauty, business opportunities, and vibrant tourism scene, it is important to remember that the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country with strict laws and regulations. Every visitor is required to be aware of and follow the Dubai laws and rules, as failing to do so can lead to serious consequences for tourists.
Customs regulations in the UAE
According to Dubai laws and regulations, each adult non-Muslim visitor is allowed to bring up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 500 grams of tobacco, and up to 4 liters of alcoholic beverages or 2 cartons of beer into the UAE. The import of weapons, drugs, or any pornographic materials is strictly prohibited and may result in imprisonment. All printed and video materials may be inspected upon arrival; if no illegal content is found, these items are usually returned within two days.
What You Cannot Bring
Certain items are strictly prohibited from being imported into the UAE due to customs regulations in the UAE and local laws. These include:
- Any items that contradict Muslim ethics and morals
- Gambling devices and materials
- Poultry meat
- Pork and pork products
- Birds, some breeds of dogs, and any animals listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
- Large quantities of medications – especially those containing analgesics or opiates
Important: Before bringing any medicine into the UAE, make sure it is not banned in the country and always carry a doctor’s prescription. The Emirates have extremely strict anti-drug laws, and the list of controlled or prohibited medications includes hundreds of items. Be especially careful with painkillers, analgesics, and any medicines containing psychoactive substances.
What Must Be Declared at Customs
The following items must be declared when entering the UAE:
- Books, photographs, CDs, and DVDs – as part of measures against religious extremism
- Jewelry and precious metals with a total value exceeding $16,000 per person
- Gifts if their total value exceeds $800
- Any sharp or cutting objects
- Plants, trees, and soil
- Household pets
Items You Don’t Need to Declare
You do not need to declare:
- Gifts worth less than $800
- Photo and video cameras, film, and all accessories
- Telescopes
- Portable devices: phones, laptops, tablets, players, headphones, etc.
- Baby strollers and wheelchairs
- Sports equipment
- Portable music equipment
Requirements for Bringing Pets into the UAE
If you are traveling with a pet, please note the following:
- Pets must be microchipped with an ISO 11784 chip
- Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies no earlier than 21 days and no later than 12 months before entry, with proper documentation
- Cats must be vaccinated against calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rhinotracheitis, with appropriate proof
- All pets must undergo a visual medical examination within 24 hours before arriving in the UAE
What Are the Rules in Dubai for Tourists? Understanding Laws and Customs in the UAE
Tourists should remember that the United Arab Emirates is a sovereign Islamic country where social relations are governed by national legislation, moral norms, religious rules, and customs based on Islamic principles. Visitors must understand that any violation of the law is subject to punishment according to UAE legislation, regardless of their nationality. Under Dubai laws, especially those based on Sharia, criminal offenses can result in strict—sometimes corporal—punishments. Therefore, following the rules in Dubai for tourists is essential for your safety.
As a tourist, you are required to:
- Show respect to the local population and always follow the laws, customs, and public behavior standards in the country, as well as the internal regulations of your hotel or any establishment in the UAE;
- Obey all legal requirements and instructions given by UAE officials, such as police, customs, and other authorities;
- For women, avoid wearing very short, revealing, or tight-fitting clothing in public.
Complying with these rules in UAE will help you enjoy your time in Dubai without any unwanted complications.
What Is Illegal in Dubai for Tourists: Important Rules and Prohibitions
Tourists must be aware that the following actions are strictly prohibited under Dubai laws for tourists:
- Insulting the national, religious, or personal dignity of anyone living in the UAE;
- Importing pornographic materials. All video content brought into the UAE is subject to inspection at customs and is returned after review, usually within a few days;
- The import, possession, and distribution of drugs is punishable by death;
- Any form of gambling is illegal in Dubai and the entire UAE;
- Drinking alcohol or appearing intoxicated in public is strictly forbidden – especially in the emirate of Sharjah, where alcohol is completely banned;
- Taking photos of government buildings or Muslim women without explicit permission;
- Swearing or using offensive language in the presence of Muslims – you can get arrested for swearing;
- Consuming food or beverages in public during daylight hours throughout the holy month of Ramadan is not allowed. Out of respect for local traditions and religious practices, visitors are expected to refrain from eating or drinking in public spaces until sunset.
Can You Kiss in Dubai? Public Affection and Local Laws
When it comes to public behavior, many visitors wonder: can you kiss in Dubai? According to local laws and Sharia principles, any physical intimacy between men and women in public is strictly prohibited. This includes holding hands, hugging, kissing, touching exposed skin, or engaging in any form of intimate behavior. Such actions are considered a serious violation of local norms.
What Happens if You Break the Rules?
In many cases, individuals who violate these rules for the first time are simply issued a warning by law enforcement. However, we strongly advise not to take any risks—unlucky circumstances could mean spending several hours at a police station or even facing a real prison sentence. There have already been several high-profile cases in Dubai where tourists faced legal consequences for public displays of affection. While authorities have become somewhat more lenient due to the large number of visitors, these rules are still strictly enforced and should always be respected by tourists.
Filming Accidents and Emergencies: Strict Dubai Laws
Dubai laws and punishments are particularly severe when it comes to capturing and sharing images or videos of accidents and emergencies. The authorities place great importance on the city’s image and strictly limit the dissemination of any materials that could harm Dubai’s reputation.
What Are the Consequences?
Photographing or filming road accidents, airplane crashes, train derailments, or any other transportation incidents is strictly prohibited. Violators face heavy penalties, including fines of up to $816,000 and possible deportation.
For your safety and to respect local regulations, it is strongly advised never to record or share content related to accidents or emergencies in Dubai.
By following these rules in Dubai for tourists, you can avoid serious penalties and ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.
Dress Code and Beach Rules in Dubai
Tourists should be aware of the specific rules in Dubai for beachgoers: sunbathing or swimming without a proper swimsuit, or being topless on public beaches, is strictly forbidden. Always remember to clean up after yourself when leaving the beach.
While the UAE does not enforce extremely strict dress codes, and swim trunks or swimsuits – including bikinis – are generally acceptable on the beach, it’s important to note that topless sunbathing and any form of nudity are absolutely prohibited. Even with this relative freedom by the sea, residents of the Emirates value tradition and modesty.
In all public areas away from the beach, you should avoid clothing that might be considered provocative or disrespectful to local customs. Dubai rules for women advise against wearing revealing attire such as low necklines, bare shoulders, mini skirts, or tight-fitting pants. For men, it is not appropriate to appear in public wearing only swimwear, shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Dressing modestly is especially important during religious holidays and the month of Ramadan.
By respecting these dress guidelines, you’ll demonstrate cultural sensitivity and ensure a more comfortable and positive experience throughout your stay in Dubai.
For fine dining, men are expected to wear a jacket and tie, while women should wear a dress or elegant attire – Asian-style clothing is also acceptable. Note that it is prohibited for foreigners to wear traditional Arabic clothing in public.
The Emirates are a beautiful country with countless photo opportunities, but visitors must remember to respect local traditions and customs. For example, always ask permission before photographing UAE residents—most people will agree, and this shows respect for their culture.
Photographing local women is not allowed, and men should only be photographed with their permission. It is also strictly forbidden to take photos of government buildings, military sites, ports, airports, embassies, or consulates.
Tourists in Dubai are expected to dress modestly, especially women. If your clothing is considered inappropriate, you may simply receive a warning, but it is wise to follow the rules in Dubai for tourists and respect local customs.
What Else You Should Know
It is also recommended to always carry copies of your documents, as random document checks are possible and many law enforcement officers in Dubai work in plain clothes.
Tipping is not customary in Dubai taxis. In most cafés and restaurants, a service charge is already included in the bill – this is usually indicated on the menu. If not, you may choose to leave an additional 5–10% as a tip.
For those who love shopping, haggling is an essential part of the experience – not only in markets but even in some stores. This is part of Eastern culture and can often help you get a much better price, sometimes even half off.
Dining in the UAE: Cuisine and Comfort
Restaurants in the UAE offer cuisine from all over the world, including a wide selection of European dishes. Even the smallest establishments are air-conditioned for your comfort. All major global fast food chains are also well represented throughout the country.
Is Alcohol Allowed in Dubai?
If you wish to enjoy a meal with alcohol, you must choose a restaurant or bar located inside a hotel. According to the Quran, Muslims are forbidden to consume alcohol, so there are strict regulations on alcohol consumption in Arab countries. In Dubai, alcohol is only served in restaurants and bars attached to hotels. Non-Muslim residents can purchase alcoholic beverages from specialized stores, but only if they have a valid liquor license.
Carrying alcohol in public places or in your vehicle, as well as offering or selling alcohol to a Muslim, is strictly prohibited and punishable by law. In the emirate of Sharjah, there is a complete ban on alcohol (dry law), and transporting alcohol into Sharjah is a criminal offense.
Being visibly intoxicated in public may lead to substantial fines or even jail time. If you have consumed alcohol, it is highly recommended to take a taxi back to your hotel, avoid disturbing other guests or hotel staff, and refrain from any public displays of intoxication.
During the holy month of Ramadan, Dubai laws are enforced with even greater strictness. As per tradition, Muslims are required to refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking from sunrise to sunset. For this reason, even tourists are expected to respect these traditions and avoid consuming food, drinks, or smoking in public places throughout the day. However, these rules in Dubai for tourists do not apply inside hotels, where guests can eat and drink at any time in designated areas.
Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol is strictly forbidden in Dubai. According to Dubai laws, if the police catch you driving while intoxicated, you face severe penalties, including possible imprisonment. The rules in Dubai for tourists are clear- never drive after drinking alcohol.
Is Dubai a Muslim Country? Important Cultural and Legal Rules for Visitors
The UAE is a Muslim country governed by Sharia law. It’s important to follow certain rules of behavior to ensure your stay in Dubai is both enjoyable and trouble-free. Men, in particular, should avoid staring at local women dressed in black abayas or pointing at them. Dubai laws provide full protection for local women, and any excessive attention can have serious consequences, including possible criminal charges.
Visitors must remember that entering a mosque in shorts, without a shirt, or in any inappropriate clothing is strictly prohibited. Shoes must always be removed before entering any mosque.
Business Hours in the UAE
Similar to many countries in the region, the UAE follows the tradition of taking a midday break, or siesta, to avoid the peak heat of the day. Reflecting Islamic customs, Friday is recognized as the main weekly day of rest throughout the Emirates.
- Government offices operate from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Saturday to Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are the weekend.
- Private sector businesses have varying schedules, but generally work from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, then take a break for siesta until 3:00 or 4:00 PM, reopening until 6:00 or 7:00 PM.
- Shops and traditional markets: 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Shopping malls: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM without breaks; on Fridays, malls open from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Most supermarkets are open daily, and some operate 24/7. On Fridays, all stores close for midday prayer from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, but usually reopen afterward and may stay open late into the evening.
- Throughout Ramadan, most stores open in the morning, close for the iftar meal at sunset, and then welcome customers again, frequently remaining open late into the night.
- Public parks are open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Some coastal parks have designated days when only women and children are allowed to enter.
Using Phone Cards in Dubai
There are two main types of phone cards available in Dubai, both of which offer flexible top-up options, allowing you to add any balance you need:
- Normal Card: This is a standard phone card that can only be used in payphones equipped with a specific slot for reading the card.
- Prepaid Card: With this card, you temporarily open your own account with the local telecommunications provider, allowing you to make calls from any phone—including those in hotels—at a minimum rate, which is significantly lower than the standard hotel tariff.
Tip: Using a prepaid card is a practical and cost-effective way for tourists in Dubai to stay connected without incurring high hotel phone charges.
Car Rental and Driving Rules in Dubai
Car rental in Dubai is available to anyone with a valid driver’s license and a credit card. The minimum rental period is 24 hours. Rental companies can help arrange a temporary driving license if needed. To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old, present your passport (sometimes a copy is sufficient), a credit card, a valid international driving license issued at least one year ago, and provide two photos. The temporary driving license remains valid for the entire period of your car rental.
Rules in Dubai for tourists include always carrying your driving license and passport (or a copy) while driving. The UAE has right-hand traffic, and many intersections are organized as roundabouts (called “daur” in Arabic or “roundabout” in English). Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way. Entering a congested intersection, even with a green light, is considered a serious violation.
According to driving rules in Dubai, both the driver and all passengers must wear seat belts at all times. Transporting alcohol in a vehicle without a special license (issued only to residents) is strictly prohibited and punishable by law. There are no mileage limits, and renting with a driver is possible. Average car rental prices range from $22 to $182 per day. Fuel must be paid for separately in cash at gas stations. Gasoline prices in the UAE are quite affordable, with one gallon (4.5 liters) costing roughly $1.
Public Transportation in Dubai: Buses
Buses are the most affordable form of transportation in Dubai, but their routes are limited and buses do not run very frequently. It’s worth noting that public transportation in Dubai is primarily used by lower-income residents and is not always the most convenient option for tourists.
Taxis in Dubai: Types and Tips
There are two main types of taxis in Dubai: government and private. Government taxis are light beige in color and can be easily identified by the municipal taxi service phone number (331-31-31) displayed on the front door. Private taxis are also available, but for safety and reliability, tourists are recommended to use official government taxis.
Conclusion
Dubai and the United Arab Emirates offer an exciting mix of modern attractions, rich culture, and unique traditions. By familiarizing yourself with local laws, customs, and etiquette before your trip, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while showing respect for the country and its people. Whether you’re exploring the city’s stunning architecture, relaxing on its beaches, or experiencing its vibrant nightlife, being aware of the rules in Dubai for tourists will help you truly enjoy every aspect of your trip and return home with unforgettable memories of your UAE adventure.
