You’ve booked your flight, packed your bags, and now you’re excited to explore Dubai. Skyscrapers, desert safaris, luxury malls - it all sounds amazing. But here’s the thing: Dubai isn’t just another vacation spot. It’s a place where tradition and modernity collide, and if you don’t know the rules, you could end up in serious trouble. Not because you’re a bad person, but because you didn’t know better. Let’s cut through the noise and give you the real, no-fluff guide to what you should - and shouldn’t - do in Dubai.
Key Takeaways
- Public displays of affection are illegal - hold hands, sure, but no kissing or hugging in public.
- Dress modestly outside resorts and beaches. Shoulders and knees covered in malls, government buildings, and mosques.
- Never take photos of people without asking - especially women, Emiratis, or military sites.
- Drinking alcohol is allowed, but only in licensed venues. Never drink and drive.
- Swearing, loud arguments, or rude gestures can land you in jail. Dubai has zero tolerance for disrespect.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
It’s easy to think, "It’s just a small thing," until you’re handcuffed. In Dubai, what might seem like a harmless joke - like taking a selfie with a police car, or giving someone the middle finger - can get you arrested. Tourists have been fined, detained, or deported for things like hugging in public, dancing in a nightclub without a license, or even wearing shorts that are too short. This isn’t about being judgmental. It’s about respecting a culture that has its own laws, even if they’re different from home.
The Real Do’s of Visiting Dubai
First, let’s get the good stuff out of the way. Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world - and if you follow a few simple rules, you’ll have an unforgettable trip.
- Respect Ramadan. If you’re visiting during Ramadan, don’t eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours. Even if you’re not Muslim, this is non-negotiable. Look for cafes with covered windows or private rooms - most hotels and malls have them.
- Dress smart, not sexy. You don’t need to wear an abaya. But if you’re walking through the Dubai Mall, Bur Dubai, or a mosque, cover your shoulders and knees. Women: avoid tight tops. Men: skip the tank tops in non-beach areas. At the beach? Swimwear is fine. In the desert? Long sleeves and pants help you avoid sunburn and sand.
- Use your right hand. In Arab culture, the left hand is considered unclean. So, when handing over money, food, or a business card - use your right hand. It’s a small thing, but it shows respect.
- Ask before you photograph. Emiratis, especially women, are often private. If you see someone in traditional dress, ask: "May I take your photo?" Most will say yes - but never assume. And never take photos of government buildings, military bases, or airports. That’s not just rude - it’s illegal.
- Learn a few Arabic phrases. "Shukran" (thank you), "As-salamu alaykum" (hello), and "Insha’Allah" (God willing) go a long way. Locals notice. And they’ll treat you better because of it.
The Real Don’ts of Visiting Dubai
Now, let’s talk about what you absolutely must avoid. These aren’t suggestions. These are laws.
- No public affection. Holding hands? Fine. Kissing? Illegal. Hugging? Risky. Even in touristy areas like JBR or Dubai Marina, you’ll see police patrolling. If you’re caught, you could be fined, detained, or deported. Save the romance for your hotel room.
- No drinking and driving. Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy. Even one sip of alcohol behind the wheel can land you in jail. If you drink, take a taxi. Uber and Careem are cheap and reliable.
- No swearing or loud behavior. Yelling in a taxi, calling someone an insult, or even using the word "damn" in public can get you arrested. Dubai takes public decency seriously. Keep your voice down. Stay calm. Even if you’re frustrated.
- No drugs. This one’s simple: don’t bring them. Even prescription meds from home might be illegal here. Check the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s list before you pack. Possession of any drug - even marijuana from a legal state - is punishable by prison.
- No disrespecting religion. Don’t wear clothing with religious symbols, especially if they’re mocking. Don’t enter mosques without permission. Don’t eat or drink near prayer areas. And never, ever point your shoe at someone - it’s deeply offensive.
Dress Code: What’s Actually Allowed?
You’ve heard "dress modestly," but what does that mean in practice? Here’s the real breakdown:
- Shopping malls (Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates): Shoulders and knees covered. No crop tops, spaghetti straps, or short shorts. Women: tank tops are fine if they’re not too tight. Men: avoid sleeveless shirts.
- Beaches and resorts: Swimwear is fine. But cover up when walking to the restaurant or poolside bar. Most have towel-covered walkways.
- Desert safaris: Wear long pants and a light shirt. The sun is brutal. Also, sand gets everywhere.
- Mosques (like Jumeirah Mosque): Women must cover head, arms, and legs. Men: no shorts. Most mosques provide free abayas and kanduras at the entrance.
- Government buildings and hospitals: Conservative dress required. No tank tops, no flip-flops.
Bottom line: if you wouldn’t wear it to a church or a job interview back home, don’t wear it here.
Alcohol Rules: What You Can and Can’t Do
Dubai isn’t dry. But alcohol is tightly controlled.
- You can drink in licensed hotels, bars, and clubs. Most have clear signs.
- You cannot buy alcohol at supermarkets unless you have a liquor license - and those are only given to residents.
- You cannot bring alcohol into the country unless it’s in your checked luggage (max 4 liters per person).
- Drinking in public? Illegal. Even on a park bench. That includes beachside picnics.
- Drinking under 21? Illegal. ID checks are strict.
Pro tip: If you want to buy alcohol, head to Duty Free at the airport. You can pick up a bottle on arrival and take it straight to your hotel. Just keep it sealed until you’re inside.
Photography Rules: Don’t Get Arrested for a Selfie
Here’s a real story: A tourist took a photo of a police officer on a motorcycle, posted it on Instagram, and got detained for 48 hours. Why? Because photographing law enforcement is illegal in Dubai.
General rules:
- Never photograph people without asking - especially women in traditional dress.
- Never photograph government buildings, military bases, airports, or bridges.
- Don’t take photos inside malls or hotels without permission - some have privacy policies.
- Use your phone, not a DSLR, for casual shots. Large cameras draw attention.
If you’re unsure, just ask: "Is it okay to take a photo?" Most people will say yes - if you’re polite.
What to Do If You’re Accused of Breaking a Rule
Stay calm. Don’t argue. Don’t get angry. Don’t say "I’m from America!" - it won’t help.
- Ask for a translator. You have the right to one.
- Do not sign anything you don’t understand.
- Contact your embassy immediately.
- Do not resist arrest. Even if you think you’re innocent.
Dubai’s police are professional. They’re not out to get tourists. But they enforce the law - and they will. Your best move? Stay respectful, stay quiet, and ask for help.
Comparison: Dubai vs. Las Vegas for Tourists
| Aspect | Dubai | Las Vegas |
|---|---|---|
| Public Drinking | Only in licensed venues | Allowed on sidewalks |
| Public Affection | Illegal beyond holding hands | Common and accepted |
| Dress Code | Modest in public areas | Anything goes |
| Drug Laws | Zero tolerance - prison | Legal marijuana in some areas |
| Photography Restrictions | Strict - no police or buildings | Minimal - take all the selfies |
| Legal Age for Drinking | 21 | 21 |
Think of it this way: Las Vegas says, "Do whatever you want." Dubai says, "Do what’s respectful." Both are fun - but one will jail you if you mess up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear shorts in Dubai?
Yes - but only in the right places. Shorts are fine at beaches, pools, and desert safaris. In malls, downtown areas, and government buildings, they should be knee-length or longer. Avoid anything above the knee in public spaces. When in doubt, cover up.
Is it okay to kiss my partner in Dubai?
No. Any form of public kissing - even a quick peck - is illegal and can lead to arrest, fines, or deportation. Dubai’s laws on public decency are strict, even for couples. Save the affection for private spaces like your hotel room.
Can I take photos of the Burj Khalifa?
Yes - the Burj Khalifa is one of the most photographed buildings in the world. But don’t take photos of police, security checkpoints, or military vehicles nearby. Stick to the tower itself and surrounding public areas. If you’re unsure, look around - if locals are taking photos, you’re probably fine.
What happens if I accidentally break a rule?
If you’re caught, stay calm and polite. Don’t argue. Ask for a translator. Most first-time offenders get a warning or a fine - especially if they apologize. But if you resist or act aggressively, you risk detention. The key is cooperation. Most tourists are let go with a lesson - not a jail cell.
Can I bring medication to Dubai?
Only if it’s on the approved list. Many common medications - including some painkillers, ADHD drugs, and sleeping pills - are banned. Always check the Ministry of Health website before you travel. Bring a doctor’s note and keep meds in original packaging. If you’re unsure, leave it at home.
Final Tip: When in Doubt, Watch and Wait
Dubai is a city of contrasts. You’ll see women in abayas next to women in designer jeans. You’ll see luxury yachts next to traditional dhows. The secret? Observe. If you’re not sure what to do, look around. What are locals doing? Then follow their lead. Most Emiratis are welcoming - they know tourists don’t know the rules. But they expect you to try. Be respectful. Be quiet. Be curious. And you’ll leave with amazing memories - not a police report.
