Dubai is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations, for it is one of the Middle East’s most energetic and entertaining cities. Of course, Dubai is considered a city recognized for being one of the most laid-back, liberal, laid-back, and multicultural in the world. Nevertheless, you must ensure that you act properly, befittingly, and suitably.
Like any other nation, Dubai has its own set of customs, laws, and values. Some things that are acceptable in your country may not be accepted or even be lawful in Dubai. You will come in for severe repercussions if you breach the law or are outside your limits. However, there is nothing to be concerned about. All you have to do is familiarize yourself with the laws and ordinances of Dubai before booking an Air Arabia flight to travel to Dubai.
You can avoid offending anyone by adhering to these rules and respecting cultural sensitivity while having a great time. Are you planning a trip to Dubai and want to be ready before you enter the nation? You do many things out of habit that can be against the law in your place and put you in jail. Many other actions, such as dancing in public or turning the bird, can abruptly end that ideal vacation. Some things you should stay away from while in Dubai are listed below.
- It is unacceptable to exhibit affection in public.
Avoid showing any affection in public when in Dubai. They view hugs and kisses as socially inappropriate, and if you are found doing either in public, you could wind up spending the remainder of your trip in jail. For married couples, though, holding hands is acceptable. Avoid engaging in such behavior in public to avoid being detected. One of Dubai’s most crucial laws is this one. The amount of time spent holding hands, kissing, and hugging in public should be minimal.
In the great city of Dubai, public expressions of affection are often frowned upon. This would entail the full nine yards, including kissing, hugging, and everything. Even something as basic as a couple holding hands can draw the wistful gaze of the locals.
It is not only socially improper to act in such a way in public. Public expressions of affection have occasionally landed people in jail.
Yes, there have been arrests in Dubai for couples holding hands. Hence, anyone intending to go on a beautiful, romantic hike while holding their lover’s hand should give the ‘holding hands’ aspect some thought.
- Do not wear unsuitable attire.
You will be pleasantly surprised to learn that contrary to popular belief, the UAE is more tolerant of how people choose to dress. However, not all Emirates have the same dress standards. However, most of these Emirates allow visitors to dress in Westernized attire. However, it’s crucial to dress appropriately when in Dubai. It implies that you should dress appropriately for the location you will be visiting.
The wisest course of action in Dubai is modesty. Even though Dubai is a fashionable city that embraces all the newest trends, there are still some limitations on what may be worn there. It is improper to wear low-cut, tight, short, or clothing that shows a lot of skin in public places like malls, markets, beaches, theaters, mosques, etc. Dubai also allows guests to dress in western attire.
Avoid wearing anything transparent, provocative, revealing, insulting, or modest in public. Bikinis and swimwear are only permitted at swimming pools, waterparks, and beaches. Women should refrain from donning outfits with plunging necklines.
- Avoid using foul language in public.
The use of vulgar language is discouraged by the Arabs. When speaking to a local or in public, you should use extreme caution with your words. Additionally, it is forbidden to disparage Islam or Muslims because doing so is illegal.
When it comes to offensive language, Dubai is incredibly conservative. In 2016, a judge mandated a man’s retrial after he was found guilty of cursing at a workmate in a message sent through WhatsApp.
- You must get permission before taking a picture.
Dubai is a beautiful city with spectacular vistas, which may entice you to take photos. Even though taking images is perfectly acceptable, you must exercise extreme caution. There must be strict adherence to this guideline. Without their permission, taking images or recordings of anyone, especially women and children, is illegal, and you risk fines or even jail time.
According to the country’s cybercrime legislation, it is illegal to take pictures of people without their permission in Dubai. No matter how strong the want is to use your camera to photograph the locals, resist the urge. Photographing residents is frowned upon in Dubai, especially ladies. Additionally, tourists should exercise caution while trying to strike up an unwelcome discussion with or pester local women for an extended period. A photographer can face legal action from locals if they upload such photos on social media.
- Don’t carry drugs with you.
The UAE has a severe anti-drug policy, which forbids you from importing or consuming any drug, including prescribed medications and illicit substances. Airports are on heightened alert for anyone bringing drugs into the nation. You might spend up to four years in prison if caught with it. I assume that wasn’t the visit you had in mind. Check the UAE’s official website and familiarise yourself with the legal medications before packing your bags. Bring your prescription with you if you must carry the medication.
- Avoid buying counterfeit items in Dubai.
An Intellectual Property (IP) legal firm has recommended consumers buy excellent non-luxury or branded goods rather than purchasing phony goods to reduce the number of fake goods on the market.
If a person cannot afford to purchase pricey goods, several alternatives are nearly or the same in quality as branded goods but do not have counterfeit insignia. Ghani noted that those who wish to flaunt a certain social position but cannot afford to purchase genuine luxury things find appeal in counterfeits.
He argued that buying inexpensive non-branded stuff, such as shoes or bags, is preferable to flaunting fraudulent goods.
- Cross-dressing is prohibited
Being a conservative society, Dubai is not yet accepting of homosexuality. Cross-dressing is not allowed in Dubai, so don’t do it while you’re there. The consequences of breaking the law include incarceration.
- Unmarried couples are not permitted to live together.
You may stay together when traveling with your significant other. Dubai abides by Sharia law, which forbids unmarried couples from cohabiting anywhere, including in hotel rooms. If you are found cohabiting, you risk being fined, expelled, or put in jail.
- It is illegal to drink and be drunk publicly.
You cannot consume alcohol in public areas or act intoxicated when visiting Dubai. The ideal place to go if you want to drink is to a bar. It is legal to drink at bars, and Dubai offers some of the most amazing rooftop bars where you can sip drinks and take in the city’s breathtaking views. Avoid drinking or being intoxicated in public to avoid fines or jail time.
- During Ramadan, eating in public is prohibited.
During the holy month of Ramadan, it is not permitted to consume food or beverages or smoke in public. Even chewing gum is not allowed in public areas. No of your religion, you should avoid making a lot of noise or slurping in public while Muslims in the city are fasting from sunrise to nightfall. You can, however, consume alcohol without restriction within your hotel.
- Avoid using hand signals
In Dubai, certain hand signals that are acceptable in your nation might not be. In Dubai, some hand gestures are viewed as insulting. The thumbs-up hand gesture is akin to flipping the bird, while the “ok” hand gesture represents the devil’s eye. Any vulgar or insulting hand motions will land you in jail.
- Never bring something that is forbidden.
Traveling to Dubai, you must be extra careful about packing. Before you do that, read up on the items you can carry. Some prohibited items include books with adult content, anything made in Israel, and the refrain from carrying pork into the country.
- Don’t make fun of the royal family
You can have your own beliefs or come from a different religious background. If you disagree with someone about Dubai’s culture or religious system, keep your disagreement to yourself. They can imprison you or punish you harshly if you openly criticize, mock, or offend the legislation, culture, or religion of Dubai or the ruling royal family. Therefore, enjoy what the city offers instead of ridiculing Dubai while visiting.
You could find the customs and beliefs of other nations to be strange. However, it’s better to abide by the fundamental laws and regulations when you are there to have fun than to break them. Consider these recommendations as you prepare for your Dubai holiday and book your Air Arabia flight booking.
