Rules & Culture
Alcohol, Ramadan, dress code, photography, drones.
Signed by: Sarah Al Qasimi (Lead Editor). Fact-checked by the full editorial team.
Can I drink alcohol in Dubai?
Yes — at licensed hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, and private residences. Drinking in public spaces, parks, beaches, or on the street is illegal. Residents need a personal alcohol licence (free, via Dubai Police or MMI app) to purchase from off-licence shops. Tourists can get a free visitor licence via the MMI app. Being drunk in public is a criminal offence.
What is the dress code for public places in Dubai?
Shoulders and knees should be covered in shopping malls, government buildings, souks, and on public transport. Swimwear is only appropriate at pools and beaches. Lingerie-style clothing or anything deemed indecent can result in a fine or request to change. No specific law requires headscarves for non-Muslims, but respectful modesty is appreciated.
What are the rules for non-Muslims during Ramadan in Dubai?
Since the 2021 liberalisation, non-Muslims can eat, drink, and smoke at most licensed restaurants throughout the day during Ramadan. Public eating, drinking, or smoking on the street remains disrespectful and may still attract official attention. Working hours are reduced by 2 hours for all employees by law. Ramadan is a beautiful time to experience Dubai's evening culture.
Can I take photos of people in Dubai without permission?
No — photographing people without their consent is illegal under UAE Cybercrime Law. This applies especially to Emirati women and children. Photographing government buildings, military facilities, and airports is prohibited. Sharing photos of others on social media without consent can result in criminal charges. Always ask permission before photographing any person in Dubai.
Source: UAE Cybercrime LawWhat are the drone rules in Dubai?
All drones must be registered with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) via the Dubai Drone app. Flying is permitted only in designated zones — most of central Dubai is restricted airspace. Flying near airports, government buildings, or Palm Jumeirah without specific permits is illegal. Fines range AED 10,000–50,000+ for unauthorised flights. Foreign visitors must also register before flying.
Source: DCAA DronesAre vapes and e-cigarettes legal in Dubai?
Legal since 2019 — only TRA-approved vaping products may be sold. E-cigarettes are restricted to the same rules as cigarettes: no smoking (including vaping) in enclosed public spaces, restaurants, government buildings, or near schools. Violations attract AED 500–3,000 fines. Travelling with vapes: declare at customs, maximum 60ml e-liquid, no more than 2 devices.
Can unmarried couples live together in Dubai?
Yes — cohabitation by unmarried couples was decriminalised under Federal Decree-Law 9 of 2021. Landlords and employers can no longer use unmarried status as grounds for eviction or complaint. Hotels have accommodated unmarried couples for years. The law also decriminalised consumption of alcohol in private homes. This was a significant social liberalisation in UAE law.
What should LGBTQ+ visitors and residents know about Dubai laws?
Same-sex relations remain criminalised under UAE federal law. Public displays of affection by same-sex couples are illegal. Tourists are rarely targeted if discreet. Trans individuals may face challenges with document processing. Pride-related clothing or symbols in public can attract attention. Dubai is a welcoming city in most other respects, but legal risk for LGBTQ+ individuals is real.
Is cannabis or CBD legal in Dubai?
Both are fully banned — zero tolerance. There is no medical cannabis programme recognised by UAE law. Even CBD products legal in your home country can result in arrest and prosecution in Dubai. Trace amounts of THC in your bloodstream from consumption abroad can still trigger arrest if tested. The penalties are severe: 4 years imprisonment minimum for first offences.
Source: UAE Anti-Narcotics LawAre public displays of affection allowed in Dubai?
Holding hands is acceptable for married couples and widely seen. Kissing on the lips in public is illegal and can result in a fine or deportation. Hugging and embracing are in a grey area — a brief hug is generally overlooked but prolonged embrace in public may attract complaint. On beaches and pools, normal social contact is acceptable. Use discretion.
Is swearing or making rude gestures illegal in Dubai?
Yes — swearing, including in WhatsApp messages, texts, and social media, is a criminal offence under UAE Cybercrime Law. The middle finger gesture can result in deportation. Fines range AED 250,000–500,000 for online abuse. Several tourists and residents have been imprisoned for road rage gestures or offensive texts. Apply the same care online as in person.
Source: UAE Cybercrime LawCan I fundraise or collect donations in Dubai?
Only via licensed UAE charities registered with the UAE Ministry of Community Development. Unauthorised fundraising, collection of donations, or crowdfunding for non-licensed causes is illegal regardless of intent. Individuals have been prosecuted for informal online collections. If you want to donate, use licensed entities like UAE Red Crescent, Dubai Cares, or Zakat Fund. No unauthorised street collections.
Source: UAE Ministry of Community Development