Do People in Dubai Use Toilet Paper? Toilets, Bidet Sprays, and Restroom Etiquette (2025 Guide)

Imogen Wetherby Sep, 27 2025

Short answer: yes, Dubai uses toilet paper. Longer answer: water is the default, and nearly every bathroom has a handheld bidet spray (locals call it a shattaf). Most hotels, malls, and modern apartments offer both-paper for drying and a spray for washing. If you’re wondering what to expect, how to use the sprayer without drenching yourself, or whether wipes are okay, you’re in the right place.

TL;DR

Yes, you’ll find toilet paper in Dubai-especially in hotels, malls, and newer buildings-but water cleaning (via shattaf) is the norm.
Use the bidet spray to wash, then dab dry with paper. Flush paper unless a sign says not to; bin sanitary items and wipes.
Carry tissues if you’re touring older areas; modern venues are well-stocked, but small cafes may run out.
Wet wipes? Bag and bin them. “Flushable” wipes still clog pipes.
Expect family rooms, accessible restrooms, and clear signage in airports and big malls.

What “toilet paper in Dubai” actually means

Toilet paper is a paper hygiene product used for wiping and drying after using the toilet; in Dubai, it typically comes in 2-3 ply rolls and is widely sold in supermarkets. You’ll see brands like Fine, Kleenex, and private labels in Carrefour, Spinneys, and Lulu. Hotels usually stock soft 2-3 ply rolls; cafes and public restrooms often use large dispensers.

Dubai is a city in the United Arab Emirates known for modern infrastructure, multilingual signage, and visitor-friendly facilities. In practice, that means bathrooms are clean, clearly labeled, and usually have both paper and water options. Still, culture matters here: water-first cleaning is part of daily life.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a Gulf nation where water-based post-toilet cleansing is the dominant hygiene practice. Dubai follows this regional norm while also catering to international visitors who expect paper.

Water is the default: meet the bidet spray (shattaf)

Bidet shower (shattaf) is a handheld nozzle attached to the toilet that delivers a controlled water jet for cleaning; common materials include stainless steel or ABS plastic with adjustable pressure triggers. Nearly every home and public restroom in Dubai has one. The routine is simple: wash with the spray, then dab dry with paper. It’s fast, hygienic, and aligns with local norms.

Technique tips so you don’t soak your outfit: sit, aim downward into the bowl from behind or side, squeeze the trigger gently to test pressure, rinse, release the trigger, then dab dry with paper. Place used paper in the bowl if the bathroom doesn’t say otherwise. If there’s a sign or a small bin next to the toilet, follow the sign-it’s usually there for a reason (older plumbing or sensitive pipes).

Religious and cultural context (why water matters)

Islam is the majority faith in the UAE and emphasizes cleanliness as part of daily life and worship. In bathroom context, the relevant practice is istinja the act of cleansing with water after using the toilet to achieve personal purity, which is part of broader taharah (ritual purity). Many people still use some paper to dry after washing; that’s where your roll comes in.

This cultural backdrop explains why Dubai restrooms prioritize a shattaf and why you might see extra floor drains and hose attachments. It’s also why even Western-style toilets almost always have a spray nearby.

Where you will (and won’t) find toilet paper in Dubai

Here’s what to expect across different venues-useful if you’re planning your days around malls, heritage quarters, or beaches.

Airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world’s busiest hubs, serving 80M+ passengers annually, with modern, well-stocked restrooms and multilingual signs. You’ll find both paper and shattafs.
Malls: Major centers like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates keep restrooms spotless, staffed, and stocked. Expect paper, soap, and dryers, plus separate family rooms and accessible toilets.
Hotels: 3-5 star hotels provide toilet paper, tissues, and a shattaf. Luxury rooms may include bidet seats or hose sprays with adjustable flow.
Restaurants and cafes: International chains usually stock paper. Small eateries and older buildings in Deira or Bur Dubai generally have a shattaf, but paper can run out-carry pocket tissues.
Public beaches and parks: Facilities exist and are clean by regional standards, but supplies vary on busy weekends. Bring a small pack of tissues just in case.

Local standards, plumbing, and disposal rules

Dubai Municipality is the civic authority overseeing public health, sanitation, and wastewater management in the city. Their public health teams emphasize keeping restrooms sanitary and pipes clear. You’ll often see signs that say what can be flushed.

General rule that works 95% of the time: flush toilet paper, bin wipes and sanitary items. If a sign specifically asks you to bin paper, do that-older plumbing exists in some areas. Pack a spare bag for used wipes if needed.

World Health Organization (WHO) is a global authority that promotes safe sanitation practices, including handwashing and proper waste disposal. Handwashing with soap for at least 20 seconds is standard. Most Dubai restrooms provide soap dispensers and warm water; many also have jet dryers or paper towels.

How to use the shattaf like a pro (with zero splash drama)

Stay seated. It’s easier to aim and avoids splashes.
Hold the sprayer close, angled into the bowl.
Gently press the trigger to test pressure-some nozzles are powerful.
Rinse front to back if you need a rule of thumb.
Release the trigger before moving the nozzle away.
Dab dry with a few squares of toilet paper in Dubai. No need to overuse.
Flush paper unless a posted sign says otherwise; bin wipes and sanitary items.

Worried about the floor getting wet? Look for the floor drain-that’s exactly why it’s there. If you splash, a quick wipe with paper or a paper towel is polite.

Availability and shopping: what to buy, where to find it

Supermarkets carry a full range of rolls: 2-3 ply, hypoallergenic, recycled-fiber, even scented (not everyone’s favorite). You’ll find familiar names plus regional brands:

Fine: widely sold in the UAE, soft 2-3 ply, good balance of strength and comfort.
Kleenex: premium options, often the softest but pricier.
Store brands (Carrefour, Lulu, Spinneys): value packs with decent quality.

If you prefer wipes, choose biodegradable ones-but still bag and bin them. “Flushable” on the label doesn’t mean safe for every system. That’s a municipal headache anywhere, not just here.

Comparison: water vs paper vs wipes vs bidet seats

Hygiene options in Dubai restrooms: what’s common and what works best
Option	Availability	Hygiene	Plumbing impact	Cultural fit	Cost	Learning curve
Shattaf (bidet spray)	Almost universal	Excellent (water cleans thoroughly)	Low (no paper volume)	Perfect fit	Free/installed	Light practice helps
Toilet paper	Common in hotels/malls	Good (best after water)	Low if used moderately	Common as a dryer	Low ongoing	None
Wet wipes	Widely sold	Good, but not necessary after water	High if flushed-bin only	Okay if binned	Moderate	None
Bidet toilet seat	Occasional in luxury venues	Excellent	Low	Accepted	High upfront (venue)	Simple controls

Etiquette: do’s and don’ts that locals silently expect

Do follow signs about flushing vs binning. If in doubt, ask staff or look for a bin specifically labeled for paper.
Do leave the sprayer neatly hung and the area reasonably dry.
Don’t flush wipes, sanitary pads, or tampons. Use the bin-always.
Do wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds. Hand dryers or paper towels are available.
Do carry pocket tissues when sightseeing in older districts or during weekend rushes.

For women and families: small details that make a big difference

Most malls have parent rooms with changing tables and sinks. Family restrooms are clearly signed. Many venues offer sanitary bins inside each stall. If you’re out with kids, a small zip pouch with tissues, a travel-size hand sanitizer, and a spare pair of underwear for the little one will save you when lines are long or supplies are low.

Period care: Dubai restrooms typically provide covered bins. Wrap and bin; never flush pads or tampons. If you prefer a menstrual cup, sinks are usually close by for rinsing; carry a water bottle for privacy if needed.

Accessibility and inclusive facilities

Dubai’s modern malls and transport hubs usually include accessible stalls with grab bars and space for wheelchairs. Many of these also have a shattaf placed within easy reach. If you rely on toilet paper instead of water, carry a travel roll-staff do restock, but peak times get hectic.

Why water-first is so entrenched (beyond culture)

Two reasons: hygiene and practicality. Water removes residue better than dry wiping, which is why people often feel cleaner after a rinse. Practically, it cuts paper use. That matters both to households and to facility managers who run high-traffic bathrooms.

In the broader Gulf context, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is a regional bloc where water-based cleansing is a standard bathroom feature across member states. Travelers see the same setup in Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh, and Manama.

What to pack and what to skip

Yes: pocket tissue pack, zipper bag for used wipes, travel hand sanitizer, a small microfiber towel if you prefer drying with cloth.
Maybe: a compact roll of paper for day trips in older areas or outdoor parks.
No: flushing wipes. If you carry wipes, bag-and-bin only.

Real-world scenarios so you know exactly what to do

Hotel room (4-star): You’ll see a roll on a holder, a shattaf next to the toilet, and a covered bin nearby. Use spray, dab dry, flush paper, bin anything else.
Trendy cafe in Jumeirah: Shared restroom, shattaf installed, jumbo paper dispenser. Works like a hotel but stock may dip at peak times-carry tissues.
Heritage area tea house in Deira: Shattaf guaranteed; paper often present but not always. Follow posted signs for disposal; when in doubt, bin paper.
DXB terminal: Western-style toilets, abundant paper, strong housekeeping presence, and a shattaf at each stall.

Definitions of key terms you’ll hear and see

These terms pop up on signage, packaging, and local guides.

Shattaf the Arabic term commonly used in the UAE for handheld bidet sprayers installed near toilets.

Carrefour a multinational supermarket chain operating across Dubai, selling toilet paper, tissues, and bathroom supplies. Lulu Hypermarket a Gulf-based retail chain with extensive grocery and household aisles, including hygiene products.

Mall of the Emirates a major Dubai shopping center known for clean, accessible restrooms and family facilities.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Assuming wipes are flushable: they’re not. Even “flushable” wipes can snag in bends and cause clogs.
Spraying at full force: test pressure first; some nozzles are powerful.
Using half a roll to dry: dab, don’t wrap. You only need a few squares.
Ignoring signs: if a restroom specifically asks you to bin paper, follow it.
Leaving puddles: hang the sprayer back and give a quick wipe if you splashed.

Credible references you’d hear locals quote

Facility managers and hotel staff refer to guidance from the Dubai Municipality Public Health and Safety Department for sanitation standards. Aviation staff follow airport operations manuals that mirror global best practices. Health messaging aligns with the World Health Organization on handwashing and sanitation. You don’t need to hunt down documents; just know that the rules you see on signs are not random-they reflect tried-and-tested standards.

Troubleshooting quick guide

No paper in the dispenser: Use the shattaf to wash, air-dry for a moment, then dab with pocket tissues. If you don’t have tissues, a quick hand-dry over the warm air dryer (hands first, obviously) buys you time.
Sign says “Do not flush paper”: Bin it. If bins look full, alert staff-Dubai venues usually respond fast.
Leaky sprayer or stuck trigger: Place it gently into the bowl to avoid spraying the stall and notify staff.
Child afraid of the spray: Wet a tissue with the shattaf and dab; it’s less noisy and less startling.
Clothing splash: Pat dry with paper, then use the hand dryer-stand close and move fabric slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dubai use toilet paper or only water?

Both. Water cleaning with a handheld bidet spray (shattaf) is the default in Dubai, but toilet paper is widely available in hotels, malls, and many restaurants. Most people wash with water, then dab dry with paper.

Can I flush toilet paper in Dubai?

In most modern venues, yes-flush toilet paper. Always check signage; a few older buildings ask you to bin paper to protect plumbing. Never flush wipes, pads, or tampons anywhere.

What is the shattaf and how do I use it?

The shattaf is a handheld bidet sprayer mounted beside the toilet. Stay seated, aim into the bowl, test pressure with a light squeeze, rinse, release, then dab dry with paper. Hang it back neatly and keep the area tidy.

Are “flushable” wipes safe to flush in Dubai?

No. Even wipes labeled “flushable” can clog pipes and pumps. Dubai Municipality advises binning wipes. Carry a small zip bag and dispose of them in the trash.

Will I find toilet paper at Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

Yes. DXB’s restrooms are well-stocked with toilet paper and have shattafs. You’ll also find accessible stalls, family rooms, and clear signage in English and Arabic.

Is using only toilet paper acceptable in Dubai?

Yes, especially in hotels and tourist venues. Culturally, water-first is the norm, but no one will police your personal routine. Dispose as posted, keep the stall tidy, and you’ll be fine.

Where can I buy toilet paper in Dubai?

Every supermarket sells it-Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, Spinneys, and neighborhood groceries. Brands like Fine and Kleenex are common. Hotels also restock daily.

What should I do if a restroom has no toilet paper?

Use the shattaf to wash, then dab dry with pocket tissues. If you have no tissues, air-dry briefly and use a hand dryer. Staff usually restock quickly-feel free to ask.

Is the water from the shattaf clean and safe to use?

Yes. It’s the same mains water feeding sinks and toilets, meant for external cleaning. As always, wash hands with soap afterward.

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