Dubai Laws and Customs for Expats & Tourists (2026 Guide)

If you are considering travelling to the UAE or moving there for work, it is best to keep some dos and don’ts in mind. Dubai is predominantly a Muslim country, and with this comes traditions and laws unlike other countries. To ensure a memorable stay in Dubai (for all the right reasons) the 10 rules below will help keep both Emirati nationals and travellers happy.

What to wear in Dubai

Like all countries within the UAE, Emiratis in Dubai dress conservatively or in traditional wear. Expats and tourists visiting the country are expected to dress modestly in public areas such as shopping malls, government buildings, and restaurants.

Generally, nothing should be too short (for example, very short skirts or shorts), shoulders should be covered in formal or traditional settings, and the material should not be see-through. This applies to men and women. Clothes emblazoned with logos or slogans that could be offensive should be avoided.

It is best to follow these rules in most public areas, but modest clothing is a must if you visit historical and cultural sites. If you visit a mosque, arms and legs will need to be completely covered and women may be asked to wear a headscarf.

Tasteful swim shorts, bikinis and swimsuits are suitable for the beach, poolside or at water parks. Once visitors have left these areas, they should cover their bodies with appropriate clothing.

Topless sunbathing is illegal and may result in fines or arrest.

You can find out more information in our guide on what to wear in Dubai as a tourist or expat.

Religious considerations in Dubai

Despite Dubai being a Muslim nation, expatriates and visitors are allowed to follow their own religion without repercussions, provided it is done privately and respectfully.

Muslims are called to pray five times a day and expats and visitors should not block entrances to mosques or disturb worshippers.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. In recent years, Dubai has relaxed enforcement for non-Muslims:

• Restaurants and cafés remain open in most areas
• Non-Muslims are allowed to eat and drink in public
• Discreet and respectful behaviour is still encouraged, particularly near mosques and in traditional neighbourhoods

Loud music, public drunkenness, and disruptive behaviour during Ramadan can still lead to fines.

Dubai rules for couples

Since 2020, unmarried couples are legally allowed to live together and stay in hotels in Dubai. Hotels no longer require proof of marriage, and having different surnames does not cause any issues.

However, public indecency laws still apply.

Married couples are advised to limit public displays of affection to hand-holding. Kissing, prolonged hugging, or intimate behaviour in public is not tolerated and can result in fines or warnings.

This applies to both married and unmarried couples.

Is it illegal to be gay in Dubai?

Federal law no longer explicitly criminalises consensual same-sex relationships.

However, Dubai remains a conservative society and:

• Public displays of affection are illegal for all couples
• Discretion is strongly advised
• Overt sexual behaviour in public can lead to legal trouble

Same-sex couples visiting Dubai generally experience no problems provided they behave discreetly in public.

Sexual harassment in Dubai

Dubai has strict laws against harassment and unwanted attention.

No man should address or follow a woman in public in a manner that could be considered intrusive or disrespectful. Furthermore, following someone, making unwanted comments, or taking photos of people without their permission is viewed as unacceptable behaviour.

Taking photographs of strangers, particularly women, without consent can result in fines or confiscation of equipment.

Can you drink in Dubai?

Alcohol is legal in Dubai for non-Muslims, but only under certain conditions.

Non-Muslims are allowed to drink alcohol in licensed areas, usually hotel restaurants, bars and clubs. These facilities must hold a licence to serve alcohol.

You may also legally buy alcohol from licensed retailers and consume it at home. A personal alcohol licence is no longer required for non-Muslims.

However:

• Drinking alcohol in public places is illegal
• Being drunk in public is not tolerated and can lead to arrest
• Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy for drink driving
• Any trace of alcohol while driving can result in imprisonment, heavy fines, and deportation

You can find out more information in our Guide to Alcohol in Dubai.

Are drugs banned in Dubai?

Drugs are strictly forbidden in Dubai.

Consuming, carrying, buying or selling illegal narcotics is a serious crime and can lead to long prison sentences.

Some prescription medications are also controlled, including certain painkillers, sedatives, and medicines containing codeine or tramadol.

For prescription drugs:

• Carry a doctor’s letter and prescription
• Bring no more than a 30-day supply
• Apply for a permit through the UAE Ministry of Health if required

It is best to check the official UAE controlled medicines list before travelling.

You can find out more in our blog Which Medications Are You Allowed to Take into Dubai?

Hand and feet etiquette in Dubai

Compared to other countries, cheques are widely used in Dubai, especially for rent.

In recent years, bounced cheques are increasingly treated as a civil matter rather than a criminal offence, particularly for smaller amounts. However:

• Large unpaid cheques can still lead to court cases
• You may face a travel ban until the debt is settled
• Leaving the country may be restricted until payment is made

Always ensure sufficient funds are available before issuing a cheque.

Cheques in Dubai

Compared to other countries, cheques are widely used in Dubai. Expats often use them as they can struggle to get credit. However, bouncing a cheque is illegal in the UAE. If a cheque is presented without adequate funds to cover the amount, individuals could face criminal charges. In Dubai, a cheque is classed as a financial agreement in the eyes of the law. If the person ends up serving a jail sentence, they will not be able to leave the country until the funds have been paid in full.

Is it illegal to swear in Dubai?

Public behaviour laws are stricter than in many Western countries.

Swearing, making rude gestures, or shouting in public can result in fines and, in serious cases, arrest.

Any individual who makes blasphemous remarks about Islam or insults religion should be prepared to face serious repercussions. Religious insults are taken very seriously under UAE law.

It is best to adopt cultural sensitivity and avoid offensive language in public.

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