Posted by Bans in Dubai: What Tourists Must Know (2025)
Dubai is known as a modern, cosmopolitan destination – yet many rules differ from those in Europe. Things that are completely normal at home can lead to problems in the United Arab Emirates. To help you avoid accidentally breaking laws or cultural norms, this article explains the most important bans in Dubai that tourists often don’t know about – simple, clear and with many practical examples. 
Why it’s important to know the rules
Dubai is a safe destination with clear laws. Most regulations concern public morals, religion and safety. Those who respect them rarely have any contact with the police. But ignorance does not protect you from punishment – and some offenses can be expensive or even lead to arrest. The good news: with a little background knowledge, all of this is easy to avoid.
>>> Book a desert tour in Dubai
1. Public affection & nudity
Public spaces in Dubai are considered “family areas”. Anything perceived as too intimate or revealing is frowned upon.
- Kissing and hugging in public are considered indecent and are forbidden.
- Topless sunbathing or string bikinis are not allowed at beaches or pools.
- Sex in public – including in cars or on the beach – is a criminal offense.
Holding hands is usually acceptable, especially for married couples. In mosques or very traditional neighborhoods, you should avoid it.
Note: Affection belongs in the hotel room, not in public. +
Alcohol is allowed in Dubai – but only under certain conditions:
- You may drink only in licensed bars, restaurants, clubs or in your hotel room.
- Drinking on the street, on the beach or in parks is forbidden.
- Being visibly drunk in public can lead to arrest or fines.
Alcohol must be transported discreetly (e.g., from Duty Free to the hotel). Open bottles or cans in public are taboo.
3. Drugs, CBD & seemingly harmless substances
The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs. Even tiny amounts can result in multi-year prison sentences.
- Illegal drugs (cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, etc.) are strictly forbidden.
- CBD oil, CBD liquids, cannabis gummies and similar products are also banned.
- Traces of drugs on luggage, clothing or in your body can be enough for prosecution.
Important: Do not bring CBD products, “medical cannabis” or questionable supplements. When in doubt, leave them at home.
Get tickets for the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo ➜
4. Photography – not everything is allowed
Dubai is highly photogenic, but not everything may be photographed:
- Photos of people without permission are sensitive – especially of women.
- Military sites, police stations, airport security and some government buildings must not be photographed.
- Posting embarrassing or compromising pictures online can result in legal trouble.
Tip: If people appear in your photo, just ask politely. If they decline, lower your camera.
5. Swearing, insults & offensive gestures
What is considered “just an argument” in Europe can be a criminal offense in Dubai.
- Insults, swear words and rude gestures can be prosecuted.
- The same applies to WhatsApp, emails and social media.
- Avoid public arguments – especially with police or officials.
Note: Stay calm, speak politely, or walk away. Loud swearing will only make things worse.
>>> Book a desert tour in Dubai
6. Disrespecting religion
Religion is a sensitive topic in the UAE.
- Mocking religion, mosques or religious symbols is forbidden.
- Avoid loud music or revealing clothing near mosques.
- During Ramadan, additional rules apply (no eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day).
Tip: A polite and respectful attitude is enough to be treated very kindly.
7. Clothing – too revealing is forbidden
Dubai is modern but has limits regarding clothing:
- In malls, government buildings and residential areas, shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Very short shorts, crop tops or transparent clothing may lead to warnings.
- In mosques, long clothing is required, and women must cover their hair (often provided on-site).
Swimwear is fine at the beach – but only there.
8. Eating, drinking & smoking in public
Outside of Ramadan, eating and drinking are fine, but:
- In public transport (e.g., Dubai Metro), eating and drinking are forbidden.
- Smoking is forbidden in malls, public buildings and many outdoor areas.
- Shisha lounges are allowed but regulated.
During Ramadan, do not eat, drink or smoke in public during the daytime.
9. Public criticism & social media
Be careful with public statements – offline and online:
- Harsh criticism of the government, police or ruling family is forbidden.
- Negative posts about people or companies may be considered defamation.
- Sharing embarrassing videos/photos of others can be prosecuted.
10. Begging, street sales & aggressive advertising
- Begging is forbidden.
- Street sales without a license are prohibited.
11. Drones & aerial shots
- Flying drones requires registration and permission.
- Airports, military sites, palaces and dense urban areas are off-limits.
12. Banned items when entering Dubai
- Drugs & CBD products
- Certain medications (without medical certificate)
- Pornography or extremist political material
- Weapons, pepper spray, tasers
13. Rules in taxis, metro & buses
- Women- and family-only metro cabins – men traveling alone are not allowed.
- No eating, drinking or chewing gum in Metro & Tram.
- Disrespectful behavior towards staff is forbidden.
What happens if you break the rules?
- Warnings
- Fines
- In serious cases, arrest and court
How to stay safe
- When unsure, behave more conservatively.
- Drink alcohol only in licensed places.
- Avoid heated discussions about religion or politics.
- Ask before taking photos of people.
- Respect Ramadan rules.
Conclusion: Respect goes further than knowing every rule
Most “bans” in Dubai follow one principle: respect for religion, culture and others. Those who behave politely will have no problems – and enjoy a relaxed stay in Dubai.
| Dubai Guide – Key Topics & Essential Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Jellyfish in Dubai | Sharks in Dubai | Snakes in Dubai |
| Tiger Mosquito Dubai | Dangerous Animals Dubai | |
| Dubai Prices | Alcohol in Dubai | Dubai Bans & Rules |
| Smoking in Dubai | Customs Dubai | Supermarkets Dubai |
| Taxi & Uber Dubai | Photography Dubai | |
| Vaccinations Emirates | ||