Tourist Laws Dubai: What You Must Know Before You Go

When you visit Dubai, a global city with strict cultural and legal codes that differ sharply from Western norms. Also known as the UAE’s most visited destination, it welcomes millions—but only if you follow the rules. Ignorance won’t protect you from fines, detention, or deportation.

Many tourists think Dubai is just a flashy desert paradise, but the reality is more complex. Public behavior, including how you dress, hold hands, or even chew gum, is tightly regulated. Cohabitation laws, which govern whether unmarried couples can share a hotel room, are enforced inconsistently but still carry real risk. And Internet censorship, including blocked apps like Grindr and restrictions on VPN use, affects how you connect while you’re here. These aren’t suggestions—they’re laws backed by police, fines, and immigration consequences.

You can’t just wing it. A $500 fine for smoking in a non-designated area? That’s real. Getting kicked out of a hotel for sharing a bed with your partner? Happens. Being questioned for taking a photo of a government building? Standard procedure. The city doesn’t care if you didn’t know. You’re expected to learn. That’s why this collection of posts exists—to cut through the noise and give you the straight facts on what’s allowed, what’s not, and what to avoid at all costs. You’ll find clear answers on everything from alcohol rules and dress codes to dating apps, hotel policies, and even bathroom etiquette. No fluff. No guesses. Just what you need to stay safe, legal, and stress-free while you’re here.