Posted by Dubai is one of the most photographed travel destinations in the world – between the Burj Khalifa, desert and beaches, millions of photos are taken every day. But anyone taking photos in Dubai should know: there are clear rules for photos, videos and drones. Violations can be expensive. Here’s what you’re allowed to photograph in Dubai in 2025 – and where caution is needed.
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⚖️ Legal framework
Photography in Dubai is regulated by the UAE Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021) and the Privacy & Data Protection Regulations.
The goal is to protect privacy, religion and public morals.
Important: Taking photos of people without their consent and posting them online violates the law. Tourists can also face hefty fines or imprisonment.
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Allowed – what you can photograph without issues
- Landmarks: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Museum of the Future
- Public areas, streets, parks, beaches (without close-ups of strangers)
- Hotels, restaurants, shopping malls (unless signs prohibit it)
- Desert landscapes, skyline, sunsets
- Events & shows with public approval
Forbidden or risky – what to avoid
- Taking photos or videos of people without their permission (especially women & families)
- Police, military, government buildings, airports or consulates
- Accidents, crimes or traffic stops
- Court buildings, hospitals or mosques during prayer
- Construction sites, security facilities, private property
Fines:
Unauthorized photography → 2,000–50,000 AED (≈ €500–12,500)
Publishing without consent → up to 100,000 AED (≈ €25,000) or imprisonment
♂️ Photographing people in Dubai
Photos of locals or expats are only allowed with consent. Especially sensitive: women in traditional clothing or families with children.
- Always ask first: “May I take a photo?”
- No close-ups or zoom on people in mosques, markets or beaches
- No posting on social media without permission
Smartphone cameras & selfies
- Selfies at attractions are allowed.
- Avoid strangers in the background (e.g., beaches, metro).
- No photos in malls showing identifiable people.
- No photos of authorities or security personnel — even by accident.
Drones & aerial photography (2025)
Drones may only be flown in Dubai with **registration** and special permission. Since 2023, strict **UAV regulations** apply under the **Ministry of Interior** and **Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)**.
| Requirement | Regulation 2025 |
|---|---|
| Registration | Mandatory via DCAA or GDRFA |
| No-fly zones | Over people, roads, government buildings, airports |
| Allowed zones | Only in dedicated drone zones (e.g., Al Qudra, desert areas) |
| Approval required | For commercial use & social media |
| Penalty for violations | Up to 50,000 AED (≈ €12,500) + confiscation |
Recreational drones are barely allowed for tourists. Only licensed operators may use aerial footage commercially.
️ Photography in mosques, malls & hotels
- Mosques: Only allowed in the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi – with respect.
- Malls: Usually permitted, but no close-ups of people.
- Hotels: Allowed, as long as guests/staff are not shown.
- Beaches: Landscape photos are fine – no close-ups of strangers.
What to do in case of misunderstandings
- If someone asks you to delete a photo – do so immediately.
- Do not argue with security staff or police.
- Show deleted images when asked.
- Politeness always helps.
Legal tips for influencers & photographers
- Commercial shoots require a permit from the **Dubai Film and TV Commission (DFTC)**.
- Professional drone/video work needs a production licence.
- No promotional videos without an influencer licence (National Media Council).
- No selling photos or stock images without approval.
Fines & penalties (2025)
| Violation | Fine (AED) | Approx. Euro |
|---|---|---|
| Photographing people without consent | 2000–5000 | ≈ €500–1250 |
| Publishing without consent | up to 100,000 | ≈ €25,000 |
| Photos of police, military, government buildings | up to 50,000 | ≈ €12,500 |
| Drone flight without permission | up to 50,000 | ≈ €12,500 |
| Filming accidents or crimes | up to 20,000 | ≈ €5000 |
Safe & legal photography – practical tips
- When in doubt, ask rather than take photos secretly.
- Use official viewpoints (e.g., Burj Khalifa, The View at The Palm).
- Tripods are often not allowed in malls & parks.
- At the beach, only photograph your own group.
- Get drone flights approved in advance.
Conclusion: Photography in Dubai with respect & awareness
Dubai is a paradise for photographers – as long as you respect privacy and the law. Landscapes, architecture and the light offer endless photo opportunities. But people, security zones and drones are sensitive topics. If you stay respectful and alert, you can enjoy Dubai safely and bring home stunning photos.