Laws and Rules Regulations for Tourists

Dubai welcomes visitors from all over the world, but it is a Muslim country with strict regulations on public behavior, dress, photography and more. Tourism thrives when visitors are informed, so this guide outlines Dubai rules, important rules and local laws to follow to avoid trouble.

In this guide, we’re going to cover the following:

• smoking and alcohol consumption regulations;
• music, dancing & swearing rules;
• rules of street photography;
• dressing requirements;
• rules set specifically for Ramadan;
• some unusual laws you didn’t expect.

Remember that the law is strict in the Emirates, to say the least. However, knowledge is power, so read on to feel completely safe on your trip to Dubai.

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General Dubai Rules

We advise tourists to remember that foreigners in Dubai are expected to abide by local rules and laws of Dubai for tourist. Public spaces are monitored, and minor infractions can carry major penalties. It’s illegal to consume alcohol outside licensed venues, to show excessive public affection, or to use loud music in inappropriate settings. Even government buildings enforce dress codes and no-phone zones.

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Dress Code Rules

We recommend dressing modestly in most public places, with shoulders and knees covered. Women should avoid revealing clothing, especially in government buildings, shopping malls and religious sites. While bikinis are permitted on private hotel beaches, modest clothing is expected elsewhere. We advise tourists to follow these important dress codes to show respect and avoid fines.

Photography Rules

Photography is generally permitted, but photographing people without their consent, or photographing government or military installations, is illegal. Tourists should explore all available options before taking photos. We suggest you check out the best photoshoot location available in the Trinity guide. Even the most remote locations can be reached with our car rental service. The rental price includes an extra 300 km daily mileage, full insurance, toll roads, and VAT, making it easy to travel legally in the Emirates.

Smoking Rules

Smoking is legal in Dubai, but there are some strict rules on tobacco consumption, as the government aims to create a safe environment for everyone. In particular, you can’t smoke in public places, from malls to offices and parks. The fine is now 500 AED which is around $140. You can smoke where it’s allowed, in secluded areas like smoking cabins, sheesha hotels, and just at your hotel if you have discussed it with the hotel management.

Alcohol Consumption Rules

Though tourists are allowed to drink at licensed venues, drink alcohol only in designated places. At least 21 years old is required to obtain a license. Public intoxication can result in fines or arrest.

Public Behaviour and Manners

Displaying public affection, even holding hands or a brief kiss, is prohibited in Dubai and can lead to deportation or jail. Loud arguments, swearing or obscene gestures can be punished by heavy fines (up to AED 10,000) or imprisonment. Unmarried couples should stick to hotel rooms or private residences and avoid things not to do in Dubai.

Social Media and Online Conduct

Dubai enforces stringent cybercrime laws. Posting negative reviews or sharing rumours can lead to travel bans, imprisonment, or deportation. Privacy invasion or defamation online is also punishable. Visitors should think twice before posting, especially about public services. Dos and don'ts in Dubai apply to everyday online activity.

Ramadan Rules

During Ramadan, as detailed in the Trinity’s guide to Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is strongly discouraged. Even licensed venues sometimes close temporarily. Tourists should dress more conservatively and avoid public displays of affection or loud behaviour during this holy month of Ramadan.

What is Banned in Dubai?

Visitors often don’t realise the list of banned actions includes:

• Spreading rumours or online criticism.
• Public intoxication or loud music.
• PDA and unmarried cohabitation.
• Possession of prescription drugs without correct documentation (including painkillers or anti-depressants).
• Photographing sensitive locations.
• Eating or drinking on public transport unusual laws strike many first-time visitors as surprising, but knowledge lets them avoid trouble.

The Culture Trip reports that eating or drinking is banned on metros and bus stations, pedestrian crossings included.

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Things to Avoid When in Dubai

To stay out of trouble, avoid the following:

• Public affection in Dubai: hugging, kissing, holding hands on streets or beaches;
• Posting complaints or criticism on social media;
• Drinking or smoking outside designated areas;
• Wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing in public;
• Bringing prescription drugs into the country without proper prescriptions, things not to do in Dubai;
• Playing loud music in public or rental vehicles.

For more interesting details on local points and culture, see this facts article.

Why Choose Trinity Rental in Respect of Local Rules

Trinity Rental ensures clients enjoy first time visitors to Dubai simple compliance with local laws without hidden worries:

• The service fleet comprises over 80 automobiles with minimal mileage, including the latest 2024 models, so travelers always receive safe, well-maintained cars.
• No deposit required for the rental period promotes transparent and stress-free booking.
• Rental price includes increased daily 300 km mileage and full insurance, toll roads, and VAT, making it easier to travel legally across emirates.
• Full tank of fuel as a gift to every client, so journeys start without delay.
• Ability to make financial payments in various ways, including cash, Visa and Mastercard cards, and cryptocurrency, accommodating different traveler preferences.
• A dedicated manager is ready to answer your questions at any moment, including clarifications about local regulations or fines.
• Possibility of delivering a vehicle to any location, including an airport, office, hotel, etc., ensuring arrivals and departures remain on schedule and compliant.

This combination of premium service and legal peace of mind helps avoid trouble and respect important rules while touring Dubai.

Final Thoughts

Yes, Dubai is part of the Islamic world, and that must be taken into consideration. Though some rules may seem completely new to a foreigner, if you know and follow them all, Dubai is an incredibly welcoming and fascinating city overall. Moreover, if you respect local culture and always remember its unique peculiarities, you won’t face any problems in this truly magnificent city.

Also, we’d recommend driving super responsibly. Dubai road laws and rules are also strict. Again, local government doesn’t require anything extraordinary. However, not following the common safe driving requirements will definitely result in even larger fines.