What Not to Do in Dubai – Your 2025 No‑Nos Guide

Visiting Dubai is exciting, but the city has strict rules that catch many tourists off guard. Knowing what to avoid saves you from fines, awkward moments, and unwanted attention. Below are the biggest mistakes you can easily dodge.

Public Behavior and Gestures

Showing the middle finger, making lewd gestures, or shouting loudly in public can be treated as criminal offenses. The UAE law views these acts as public indecency, and you could face a fine or even jail. Keep your hands calm, smile, and use polite body language.

Public displays of affection (PDA) are also limited. A quick hug or a hand‑hold with your spouse is usually fine, but kissing, cuddling, or any overt intimacy can lead to a warning or a fine, especially during Ramadan. If you’re unsure, keep physical contact low‑key.

Using profanity or shouting at staff is another no‑no. Even if you’re frustrated, stay calm and ask politely. Complaints can be filed against you, and the process is not worth the hassle.

Dress, Alcohol, and Photo Rules

Dubai’s dress code is modest in public places. Shorts are allowed in hotels, pools, and beaches, but in malls or mosques you should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Avoid see‑through fabrics, tight bikinis outside swim zones, and revealing tops.

Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed venues such as hotel bars, private clubs, or your rented apartment with a permit. Drinking in public, driving after drinking, or bringing alcohol into a non‑licensed area can result in heavy fines and even imprisonment.

Photography is a fun part of travel, but you must respect privacy. Never photograph people, especially women, without consent. Mosques, government buildings, and military sites are strictly off‑limits for photos. If a security guard asks you to stop, obey immediately.

Vaping and smoking are regulated too. You can vape in private spaces, but doing it in malls, restaurants, or public transport will get you fined. Look for designated smoking rooms if you need to.

Other easy mistakes include trying to pay with US dollars (the dirham is the only legal tender) and bringing prohibited medication without a prescription. Always exchange money at banks or official kiosks and check the list of banned substances before you pack.

By steering clear of these common slip‑ups, you’ll enjoy Dubai’s luxury, safety, and hospitality without any legal drama. Have fun, stay respectful, and make the most of your trip!"