Essential etiquette guide: Do’s and don’ts for tourists in Dubai
So, you’ve set your sights on Dubai, the crown jewel of the Middle East! While thrilling experiences and breathtaking sights are surely on your agenda, understanding the cultural norms and Dubai rules for tourists will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Let’s learn more about some essential Dubai do’s and don’ts to enrich your trip.
Do’s For Tourists in Dubai
As a tourist or a potential expat in Dubai, you will get lots of advice and suggestions on must-do activities and must-visit places. However, people may miss out on explaining Dubai’s cultural norms and general behaviour. MyBayut is here to cover most of Dubai laws for visitors today so you can enjoy your time in the city to the fullest!
Dress to impress, but make sure it’s modest!
Everyone knows the popular adage, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’ It is important to be culturally sensitive to Emirati etiquette and follow the dress code of Dubai appropriately. This certainly doesn’t mean you can only wear clothes that locals usually wear.
Here is a quick look for dressing tips in Dubai:
- Swimwear is only allowed on private beaches and swimming pools
- Topless sunbathing is illegal and considered offensive
- Cross-dressing is not allowed
Respect the Local Tradition when visiting Dubai
Understanding Dubai’s cultural traditions, heavily influenced by Islam, fosters a deeper connection with the city and its residents. Visitors can ensure a smooth and enriching experience by being mindful of local customs. A simple gesture of respect, like a smile or a greeting using the common Islamic salutation of “Assalamu alaikum” (or “Salam”), goes a long way in opening doors to Dubai’s renowned hospitality.
- Refrain from making hand gestures that may be considered offensive
- Always respect women
- Avoid shaking hands with the opposite sex unless they offer to do so themselves
- Never drink in public areas
Take the Metro when visiting Dubai
If you want to travel around the city with a small budget, try to use the Dubai Metro for going around town. It is the cheapest form of public transport in Dubai. If you compare commuting via metro to a cab, you can see a significant difference in the amount of money you can save. Moreover, from the world’s tallest building to a picture frame 150 metres tall, visit top tourist attractions near Dubai Metro.
Keep your Drug prescriptions when visiting Dubai
If there is anything Dubai has zero tolerance for, it is the use of drugs. You must double-check all the medications you plan to take on your visit to Dubai. Have all your prescriptions with you, and try not to carry any medicine the authorities won’t approve of.
Do Keep Calm
Fines are issued if one engages in aggressive arguments and fights as per tourist laws in Dubai. This includes verbal abuse as well. Besides, whether in Dubai or anywhere else in the world, ranting, shouting and arguing are not appreciated and considered offensive. The only difference is that here, depending on the severity of the offence, you can probably face jail time for it or even get deported.
Don’ts for Tourists in Dubai
Don’ts in Dubai mean exactly that – don’ts. No exception. We have summarised a few of the rules for tourists in Dubai that are essential for you to avoid trouble while on holiday. Don’t think by any means that this city is extremely conservative.
On the contrary, Dubai has the most number of expats and a huge number when it comes to tourists visiting the city, but since it is a Muslim country, one needs to be respectful of Islamic values and culture.
No PDA or Public Display of Affection
PDA makes most people uncomfortable. However, it can result in a fine or even an arrest in Dubai! That’s right, the only amount of PDA that is tolerated here is holding hands or innocent hugs. Kissing and beyond, in short, anything that implies a report-worthy behaviour with the opposite sex in public is a giant neon sign that says NO.
Don’t Drink in Public
While alcohol is easily available in licenced restaurants and pubs, being inebriated in public is strictly prohibited and can lead to deportation or jail time. Tourists in Dubai should be mindful of their consumption and avoid public disturbances. Additionally, purchasing alcohol directly requires a licence, so make sure you know how to apply for an alcohol licence in Dubai.
Don’t Take Photographs Without Permission
No matter how Insta-worthy that photograph is, photographing locals and certain buildings in Dubai is offensive. Photographing residents, particularly without their consent, can be considered disrespectful. A simple courtesy of asking permission beforehand goes a long way. Other than that, you can take as many selfies as you like.
Furthermore, avoid taking images of airports, police stations, ports, royal palaces and military buildings without a UAE photography permit. This one is one of Dubai’s most important dos and don’ts on our list.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Dubai maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for tourists who drink and drive or behave disorderly in public under the influence. Apart from no drunk driving, cameras are everywhere if you drive beyond the speed limit, and a significant fine gets issued. Racing and using your phone while driving can also get you fined if caught.
QUICK RULES FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS TO DUBAI
Here are some quick Dubai rules for tourists in 2024 to make yourself aware of and save unnecessary trouble. Last but not least, the rules for visiting Dubai are just for your safety, so apart from abiding, don’t forget to have the time of your life in one of the best cities in the world.
- Don’t make or flash rude hand gestures
- Don’t point fingers at people
- Don’t explicitly eat, drink or smoke during Ramadan
- Don’t use swear words
- Don’t dress immodestly when visiting religious places like mosques
- Don’t accept drinks from strangers at clubs
- Don’t litter around because you’ll be charged with a heavy fine
FAQS ABOUT DOS AND DON’TS DUBAI
HOW TO RENEW A TOURIST VISA IN DUBAI?
Visit visa extension in Dubai has become easier with the UAE government’s introduction of online channels and portals. Check out our guide on tourist visa renewal in Dubai, which clearly explains the steps involved.
HOW TOURIST CAN GET A SIM CARD IN DUBAI?
Tourists can show their visas and passports to get a free SIM card at the Dubai International Airport or buy one from the city’s shopping outlets.
CAN I DRINK ALCOHOL IN DUBAI?
Yes, you can. According to tourist laws for visiting Dubai, consuming alcohol in licenced restaurants and pubs doesn’t require a liquor licence. However, if you wish to purchase alcohol, you must have a temporary licence.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN DUBAI?
From Real Madrid World to Dubai Mall’s Chinatown, the emirate never ceases to amaze visitors. Check out the list of the best tourist attractions in Dubai.
WHAT ITEMS ARE BANNED ON DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?
Dubai International Airport prioritises passenger safety with strict security protocols. To ensure a smooth travel experience, familiarise yourself with Dubai Airport banned items.
That’s MyBayut’s guide to Dubai rules for visitors to enjoy the best time in this beautiful city without any trouble! Are you heading to Dubai for the first time? Check out this handy guide to planning your first trip to Dubai.
There is a surprising range of free experiences in Dubai for budget-minded tourists. Explore the bustling Al Seef district, wander the vibrant souks, or even catch a camel racing festival – all without spending a dime. You can also sign up for the hop-on-hop-off bus tours to access some of Dubai’s best places to visit.
Vacationing in Dubai is an experience like no other! To plan your trip to this magnificent destination like a pro and enhance the overall experience, it’s wise to acquaint yourself with the best apps for Dubai tourists.
Bookmark MyBayut as your essential resource for staying informed on the do’s and don’ts of Dubai and the laws for tourists.
