Emergency Help Abroad – Dubai

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting Dubai — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs — possession (even trace amounts) can lead to long prison sentences.

• Some prescription medications require prior approval; bringing restricted medicines without documentation can lead to detention.

• Carrying weapons, including knives or sprays, is prohibited without authorisation.

• Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed venues; drinking in public is illegal.

• Drink-driving is a criminal offence with severe penalties.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Dubai follows Islamic cultural norms — modest dress is expected in malls, public areas and religious sites.

• Public displays of affection, swearing or rude gestures can attract police attention.

• Disrespecting religion, cultural symbols or the UAE leadership is a criminal offence.

• Littering beaches, streets or deserts is prohibited and carries fines.

• Vandalism or damaging public property is treated seriously.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may request identification — carry your passport or a copy.

• Public drunkenness or disorderly behaviour may result in arrest.

• Photography or filming people without consent can lead to legal issues.

• Criticising the government or posting offensive social-media content is punishable.

• Avoid confrontations — insulting behaviour is a criminal offence.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Speeding, tailgating and dangerous driving attract heavy fines.

• Jaywalking is illegal and enforced in busy districts.

• Public transport requires a valid Nol card — fare evasion results in fines.

• Overstaying your visa can lead to fines or detention.

• Using unlicensed taxis (“private lifts”) is unsafe and not recommended.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Photographing government buildings, airports, military sites or certain bridges is prohibited.

• Drone use requires registration and permission; flying in restricted zones is illegal.

• Always seek consent before photographing people, especially families.

• Some cultural and religious sites ban or restrict photography.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing sand, shells or items from beaches is prohibited.

• Feeding wildlife (including camels, birds or desert animals) is discouraged.

• Swimming outside designated areas or ignoring safety flags is dangerous.

• Desert excursions require proper guides; venturing off-road without preparation is unsafe.

• Lighting fires in desert areas may require permission.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging archaeological sites, museums or protected cultural areas is illegal.

• Removing artefacts or historic items is prohibited.

• Climbing on monuments, mosques or heritage structures is not allowed.

• Buying or exporting endangered-species products is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels relaxed or acceptable in the UK may carry very different cultural or legal implications in Dubai.

• Don’t show excessive public affection, such as kissing or intimate touching, which can lead to complaints or legal issues.

• Don’t wear very revealing clothing in malls, public streets or traditional areas, and keep shoulders and knees covered away from beach clubs or hotel pools.

• Don’t drink alcohol outside licensed venues, and avoid carrying open drinks in public spaces.

• Don’t drive or be in charge of a vehicle after drinking, as zero-tolerance drink-driving laws apply.

• Don’t bring illegal drugs into the country, including small amounts or residue; penalties are extremely severe.

• Don’t post insulting or sensitive content on social media, especially about local authorities, religion or individuals.

• Don’t take photos of people, government buildings, airports or military areas without clear permission.

• Don’t swear, gesture rudely or argue aggressively in public, as offensive behaviour is taken seriously.

• Don’t ignore modesty expectations during Ramadan, such as public eating, drinking or smoking in daylight hours.

• Don’t share hotel rooms with a partner if this conflicts with local regulations, especially outside major tourist areas.

• Don’t attempt to use VPNs or prohibited apps without checking legal implications, as cyber laws are strict.

• Don’t litter on beaches or public spaces, as fines for littering are high.

• Don’t eat or drink on the Metro, where consumption is banned and fines apply.

• Don’t assume all beaches permit bikinis, and respect signage on family or local beaches.

• Don’t conduct public photography sessions with drones, unless you have the proper authorisations.

• Don’t discuss sensitive political topics openly, especially in public or with people you don’t know well.

• Don’t disrespect mosques, including entering without appropriate dress or talking loudly nearby.

• Don’t jaywalk across busy highways or multi-lane roads, which is dangerous and can incur fines.

• Don’t ignore extreme heat warnings in summer, and avoid prolonged outdoor activity in midday hours.