Essential etiquette guide: Dos and don’ts for tourists in Dubai
So, you’ve set your sights on Dubai, the crown jewel of the Middle East! While thrilling experiences and breathtaking sights are surely on your agenda, understanding the cultural norms and tourist rules in Dubai will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. This Dubai tourist etiquette guide highlights the most important dos and don’ts for tourists in Dubai so you can enrich your trip without unintentionally causing any offence.
Travelling to one of the most visited cities in the world is a dream come true. Souks, skyscrapers and stunning sights! Make your trip unforgettable with our handy Dubai cultural etiquette guide for visitors.
Dos For Tourists in Dubai
As a tourist or a potential expat in Dubai, you will get lots of advice and suggestions on must-do activities and must-visit places. However, people may miss out on explaining Dubai’s cultural norms and general behaviour. MyBayut is here to cover most of Dubai laws for visitors today so you can enjoy your time in the city to the fullest!
Dress to impress, but make sure it’s modest!
Everyone knows the popular adage, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’ Similarly, when in Dubai, it is important to understand how to behave as a tourist in Dubai. A significant aspect of this is adhering to the proper dress code for both women and men.
It is important to be culturally sensitive to Emirati etiquette and follow the dress code of Dubai appropriately. This certainly doesn’t mean you can only wear clothes that locals usually wear.
Here is a quick look for dressing tips in Dubai:
- Swimwear is only allowed on private beaches and swimming pools
- Topless sunbathing is illegal and considered offensive
- Cross-dressing is not allowed
Respect the Local Tradition when visiting Dubai
Understanding local customs and traditions in Dubai is important. The culture here is heavily influenced by Islam. It fosters a deeper connection with the city and its residents. Visitors can ensure a smooth and enriching experience by being mindful of local customs.
A simple gesture of respect, like a smile or a greeting using the common Islamic salutation of “Assalamu alaikum” (or “Salam”), goes a long way in opening doors to Dubai’s renowned hospitality.
Tourists in Dubai should:
- Refrain from making hand gestures that may be considered offensive
- Always respect women
- Avoid shaking hands with the opposite sex unless they offer to do so themselves
- Never drink in public areas
Take the Metro when visiting Dubai
If you want to travel around the city on a tight budget, try to use the Dubai Metro to get around town. It is one of the cheapest forms of public transport in Dubai.
If you compare commuting via metro to a cab, you can see a significant difference in the amount of money you can save. Moreover, from the world’s tallest building to a picture frame 150 metres tall, you can visit top tourist attractions near the Dubai Metro.
Keep your Drug prescriptions when visiting Dubai
If there is anything Dubai has zero tolerance for, it is the use of drugs. You must double-check all the medications you plan to take on your visit to Dubai. Have all your prescriptions with you and try not to carry any medication that the authorities may not approve of. It is one of the strict tourist rules in Dubai.
Do Keep Calm
Fines are issued if one engages in aggressive arguments and fights as per the tourist laws in Dubai. This includes verbal abuse as well. Besides, whether in Dubai or anywhere else in the world, ranting, shouting and arguing are not appreciated and considered offensive. This falls under the broader Dubai tourist etiquette guide of maintaining composure in public.
The only difference is that here, depending on the severity of the offence, you can probably face jail time for it or even be deported.
Don’ts for Tourists in Dubai
Don’ts in Dubai mean exactly that – don’ts. No exception. We have summarised a few essential rules for tourists in Dubai to help you avoid trouble while on holiday.
Dubai has a large expatriate population and a huge number of tourists visiting the city. Still, since it is a Muslim country, one needs to be respectful of Islamic values and culture.
No PDA or Public Display of Affection
Public display of affection laws in Dubai are strict. PDA makes most people uncomfortable. However, it can result in a fine or even an arrest in Dubai! That’s right, the only amount of PDA that is tolerated here is holding hands or innocent hugs.
Kissing and beyond, in short, anything that implies a report-worthy behaviour with the opposite sex in public is a giant neon sign that says NO.
Dos and Don’ts in Dubai Regarding Alcohol
While alcohol is widely available in licensed bars, restaurants and pubs, alcohol consumption rules in Dubai prohibit drinking in public. Public drinking can result in deportation or imprisonment. Tourists should be mindful of their consumption and refrain from causing public disturbances. Additionally, purchasing alcohol directly requires a licence, apart from particular locations. So make sure you know how to apply for an alcohol licence in Dubai.
Don’t Take Photographs Without Permission
No matter how Insta-worthy that photograph is, photographing locals and certain buildings in Dubai is prohibited. Photography restrictions in Dubai include taking photos of residents, particularly without their consent, which can be considered disrespectful. A simple courtesy of asking permission beforehand goes a long way. Other than that, you can take as many selfies as you like.
Furthermore, avoid taking images of airports, police stations, ports, royal palaces and military buildings without a UAE photography permit. This one is one of Dubai’s most important dos and don’ts on our list.
Don’t Drink and Drive
Dubai maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for tourists who drink and drive or behave disorderly in public under the influence. Additionally, cameras are everywhere, and a significant fine is issued if you drive beyond the speed limit. Racing or using your phone while driving can also result in a fine if caught.
DOS AND DON’TS IN DUBAI FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS
Here are some quick Dubai rules for tourists in 2025 to be aware of and avoid unnecessary trouble.
Last but not least, the rules for visiting Dubai are in place for your safety, so apart from abiding by them, don’t forget to have the time of your life in one of the best cities in the world.
- Don’t make or flash rude hand gestures.
- Don’t point fingers at people.
- Follow Ramadan etiquette for tourists in Dubai, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Don’t use swear words.
- Dress modestly in religious places.
- Don’t accept drinks from strangers.
- Don’t litter; fines are heavy.
- Be aware of the tipping culture in Dubai. While not mandatory, tipping 5 to 10% is appreciated at restaurants, hotels, and for taxi drivers.
Abide by these dos and don’ts in Dubai, and you will have a trip of a lifetime.
FAQS ABOUT DOS AND DON’TS IN DUBAI
HOW TO RENEW A TOURIST VISA IN DUBAI?
Visit visa extension in Dubai has become easier with the UAE government’s introduction of online channels and portals. Explore our guide on renewing a tourist visa in Dubai, which outlines the necessary steps.
HOW CAN TOURISTS GET A SIM CARD IN DUBAI?
Tourists can obtain a free SIM card at Dubai International Airport by showing their visas and passports, or purchase one from the city’s shopping outlets.
CAN I DRINK ALCOHOL IN DUBAI?
Yes, you can. According to tourist laws for visiting Dubai, consuming alcohol in licensed restaurants and pubs doesn’t require a liquor licence. However, if you wish to purchase alcohol, you must have a temporary licence.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN DUBAI?
From Real Madrid World to Dubai Mall’s Chinatown, the emirate never ceases to amaze visitors. Check out the list of the best tourist attractions in Dubai.
WHAT ITEMS ARE BANNED ON DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?
Dubai International Airport prioritises passenger safety with strict security protocols. To ensure a smooth travel experience, familiarise yourself with Dubai Airport banned items.
WHICH ARE SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DOS AND DON’TS IN DUBAI?
It is essential to follow the list mentioned above, including clothing, general behaviour, alcohol usage and more.
That’s MyBayut’s guide to Dubai rules for visitors to enjoy the best time in this beautiful city without any trouble! Follow this list of dos and don’ts in Dubai, and you are likely to have a wonderful time.
Are you heading to Dubai for the first time? Check out this handy guide to planning your first trip to Dubai.
There is a surprising range of free experiences in Dubai for budget-minded tourists. Explore the bustling Al Seef district, wander the vibrant souks, or even catch a camel racing festival, all without spending a dime. You can also sign up for the hop-on-hop-off bus tours to access some of Dubai’s best places to visit.
Holidaying in Dubai is an experience like no other! To plan your trip to this magnificent destination like a pro and enhance the overall experience, it’s wise to acquaint yourself with the best apps for Dubai tourists.
Bookmark MyBayut as your essential resource for how to behave as a tourist in Dubai, from public display of affection laws to photography restrictions and everything in between.
