If you want to explore the city of gold, Dubai, without any hiccups, this guide can help. With its tall buildings, spectacular shopping malls and great attractions, Dubai is a real-life fairy tale. Just like any other place, Dubai has its own rules that should be followed and which can make all people feel safe and happy. Before you travel to this Middle Eastern city, you need to understand what not to do in Dubai to avoid incurring a fine or finding yourself in jail.
Dubai's amazing, with all its glitz and glamour, but remember it's also a place that truly values its culture and traditions.
A quick peek at these essential do's and don'ts will make your trip smooth sailing.
The left hand is considered dirty in Arab culture because it is related to personal hygiene, and this filter is applied in daily interactions all over Dubai. While you may drink with your left hand at home or in private areas, it is a culturally friendly idea to use your right hand in a public or at least social setting.
What to Avoid:
Tips for left-handed travellers: Practice using your right hand to interact socially, or politely explain you would rather use your left when you are in informal settings with your new friends.
Don’t show any Public affection in Dubai, along with other Middle East countries. All public displays of affection are prohibited for unmarried couples, and married couples are also limited in public affection. As per Article 358 of the UAE Penal Code, Public affection can result in fines of up to AED 1,000, deportation or imprisonment.
What to Avoid:
What's allowed: Married couples may hold hands discreetly, though even this should be done with cultural sensitivity.
For couples planning romantic getaways, Dubai honeymoon packages provide guidance on culturally appropriate romantic experiences like private dining and sunset cruises.
Dubai maintains dress codes that reflect Islamic values, particularly in public areas, malls, and religious sites.
What to Avoid:
What to Wear Instead
Don’t spit out any offensive words or disrespectful comments about Islam, the royal family, or government institutions. According to Article 373 of the UAE Penal Code, violating this rule can cost up to AED 10,000 or imprisonment. The UAE Cybercrime Law extends these restrictions to social media posts and digital communications.
What to Avoid:
Don’t click pictures of restricted areas in Dubai, particularly people, government buildings, military bases and airport security areas. In case you violate this, it may lead to camera confiscation, fines, or detention. Moreover, when it comes to privacy, Dubai has strict rules; you can’t even peek at someone's phone, and you can’t post any pictures without their permission.
Safe photography subjects:
The UAE has some of the harshest laws in the world and has zero tolerance for drug possession. However, many common medications require prior approval with original prescriptions. Do check the UAE Ministry of Health website before travelling. If you are found guilty, you may be fined up to AED 10,000, a minimum 4-year prison sentence or Permanent deportation.
What to Avoid:
Alcohol consumption is permitted for non-Muslims in licensed venues like hotels, restaurants, and clubs, as well as within the privacy of one's own home for those with a liquor license, but maintains strict public consumption laws.
What to Avoid:
ALSO READ: Dubai Laws for Tourist
During the holy month of Ramadan, Dubai observes additional restrictions affecting all residents and visitors. Both tourists and locals should dress modestly and refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours in order to show respect during Ramadan in Dubai.
What to Avoid:
If you think your social media activities are limited only to your followers, you are wrong. In Dubai, your post and digital communications activities are actively monitored by authorities. So be careful while posting. Try to avoid posting negative comments about Dubai and its leaders, as it can lead to consequences like fines of up to AED 250,000 or imprisonment for cybercrime violations.
What to Avoid:
Tips: Post only positive experiences and beautiful photos, and avoid any kind of political commentary
When visiting Dubai, try not to bring certain items like Pork products, adult content in any format and unprescribed medications.
What to Avoid:
Tips: Do carry Original prescriptions or Doctor's letters for medications.
READ MORE: Dubai Driving Rules
When visiting Dubai, show respect for the local culture by dressing appropriately, greeting and following the rules and regulations. Don’t say any negative things regarding the UAE royal family and government officials, religious practices and beliefs.
Undoubtedly, Dubai is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations with a different set of rules and regulations. Understanding these guides on what not to do in Dubai, you'll not only avoid legal issues but also show respect for your hosts. Dubai tour packages typically include cultural orientation to help visitors navigate local customs respectfully.
Yes, unmarried couples can stay together in Dubai hotels in 2025 as the legal restrictions that forbade unmarried couples from cohabiting were lifted in the United Arab Emirates in 2020.
Dubai prohibits many common Western medications, including certain pain relievers, anxiety medications, and ADHD treatments. Always check the official UAE website and carry original prescriptions with doctor's letters.
When visiting mosques in Dubai, both men and women should dress modestly, covering their shoulders, arms, and legs. Women must cover their entire body except hands and face, including wearing a headscarf.
Yes, tourists can drink alcohol in Dubai, but it must be consumed in licensed venues like hotels, restaurants, and clubs.
In Dubai, public displays of affection (PDA), particularly those considered excessive, are not permitted and can lead to penalties, including fines and even imprisonment.