There are a lot of fun things that you can do when you visit Dubai, but it is important to know there are some things that are forbidden. For example, rude hand gestures or signs of public affection can get you thrown in jail.
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Although it might feel strange to be restricted from doing things while travelling abroad that would not be a problem at home, it is important these local laws are respected. If you cause a problem by doing something in Dubai you shouldn’t, you can get yourself in a lot of trouble with the police and waste valuable holiday time. Simply follow the rules and be on your best behavior when visiting Dubai.
An expat couple from the U.K. was arrested in 2010 for kissing each other at a restaurant. They were fined, had to spend a month in jail and then were deported!
This article will outline a few important things not to do in Dubai so you won’t make a mistake and ruin your holiday there.
Drinking Alcohol in a Public Place
Perhaps you have travelled to parts of Europe where it is acceptable to drink a bottle of wine while having a picnic in the park. Don’t try the same in Dubai. Consuming alcohol in public places is strictly forbidden and will get you in trouble. There are a few of the hotels and bars that serve alcohol or you can buy it and drink it in the privacy of your hotel room.
Walking Around Drunk
Wandering around the streets while drunk in Dubai is out of the question. If you are starting to feel tipsy, head back to your hotel room while you are still sober enough to walk without coming off as noticeably intoxicated.
Swearing Aloud
If someone cuts in front of you in traffic or you stub your toe, keep your mouth shut and stifle your curses. Swearing in public is an offense and if someone reports you, it can land you in hot water. If a police officer hears you swearing, you can immediately end up in jail.
Photographing Muslim Women
It is rude to photograph anyone without asking, but taking pictures of local Muslim women is especially taboo in Dubai. It is illegal to photograph a Muslim woman, especially if she is wearing her headscarf.
Public Displays of Affection
When visiting Dubai, keep in mind public displays of affection are considered offensive. If you are travelling with your sweetheart, refrain from kissing, hugging or holding hands in public. Not only is it considered disrespectful by conservative locals, you can also get reported for public indecency.
An extra caveat to gay tourists: Dubai is not a gay-friendly travel destination. Homosexuality is a criminal offense and it could result in deportation and jail time. Some gay couples do travel to Dubai, but they refrain from public displays of affection and pretend they are brothers or sisters while there. Visiting Dubai as a gay couple does have its risks and it is important to be informed about them before your visit. However, there is a vibrant underground gay scene in Dubai but it is hidden and you have to know the right people to find the places to go.
Dressing in a Revealing Way
Pubic decency laws in Dubai also forbid wearing revealing clothing. If you are at your resort’s private pool, you will likely be able to wear a bikini. However, walking down streets in a tank top and shorts is not acceptable. Not only is it disrespectful, but a woman who dresses in this manner will be harassed. Instead, remember you’re in a conservative Muslim country and cover up your shoulders and legs.
These are a few important things you should not do during your visit to Dubai. Learn about and respect the local customs, and you should have no problem when visiting this fun and exciting city.
About the Author: Padma Singh is a travel writer who recently went to Dubai for two weeks. She loved the city’s architecture and brought back new clothes from her shopping excursions.
