7 Dubai Rules for Visitors from a Long-Term Resident
By Richard Hoskisson – November 2024

Having lived trouble-free in the UAE for 21 years, I possess a deep understanding of Dubai’s rules and how to navigate them successfully.
In my experience, the overseas press—particularly in the UK—often sensationalises stories of visitors facing legal issues in the UAE. Many of these narratives lack the significant backstory that contextualises the incidents.
The UAE is underpinned by Islamic principles, and as a visitor, showing respect for these values is key to enjoying a worry-free stay. However, Dubai’s rulers have made strides to liberalise certain laws to welcome tourism.

⚠️ Please note that this article focuses specifically on the rules in Dubai. If you plan to visit other Emirates, it is essential to familiarise yourself with their unique laws, particularly Sharjah, which is a ‘dry’ Emirate.
1. Dress Code and Appropriate Clothing
Dubai’s dress code is one of the areas that often sparks misconceptions. The city is home to a rich, diverse community from around the world, so you’ll see a wide variety of clothing styles.
Emirati men and women often wear traditional attire—kandura for men and abaya for women. Personally, I admire the traditional Emirati style; both men and women look very stylish in their cultural dress.
⚠️ Important: Avoid taking photos of anyone, especially Emiratis, without their permission.
Dress Appropriately for the Situation
This is the golden rule in Dubai: dress appropriately for the location or activity.
For example, swimwear—like bikinis for women and speedos for men—is perfectly acceptable at the pool or beach, but, as in any other place, would not be appropriate in a restaurant or shopping mall.
When visiting government buildings, it’s best to cover your legs, shoulders, and, for women, arms beyond the elbow. I got caught out by this rule one year when renewing my residency visa and had to go home to change into trousers instead of shorts!
Check Lists For What to Wear
Whilst you will see people wearing clothing deemed to be inappropriate, in order to be a morally respectful tourist, I advise the following;
Women
A general rule for female tourists is to dress modestly with clothing that will cover between the shoulders and the knees.
Avoid wearing the following in public
⛔️ Skirts or shorts that are very short
⛔️ Very tight fitting clothing
⛔️ Clothing that reveals the midriff
⛔️ Clothing with offensive slogans or logos
⛔️ Swimsuits or bikinis
What is culturally appropriate to wear in public
✅ Shorts or skirts of appropriate length
✅ Trousers or Jeans
✅ T-shirts or blouses
✅ Long dresses
Men
For men, it is much more straightforward, unless visiting the beach or pool, make sure that your clothes cover your body appropriately, particularly the chest and upper legs.
Avoid wearing the following in public
⛔️ Low hanging singlets/vests
⛔️ Very tight fitting clothing, particularly trousers or shorts
⛔️ Shirts/T-shirts that reveals the midriff
⛔️ Clothing with offensive slogans or logos
⛔️ Swimsuits
What is culturally appropriate to wear in public
✅ Jeans or trousers
✅ Shorts
✅ T-shirts or shirts
✅ Clothing that covers the body suitably particularly the chest and upper legs
2. Cultural Sensitivity and Rules in Dubai During Ramadan
Since I moved to Dubai in 2001, the rules surrounding Ramadan have evolved significantly, especially for non-Muslims. There was a time when all restaurants and coffee shops closed during daylight hours, and eating or drinking in public could result in a caution from the police, if caught.
Fast forward to 2024, and Ramadan in Dubai feels like any other month for those not observing the fast. Life continues as usual, with restaurants and cafes open throughout the day.

Restrictions and Etiquette During Ramadan
While non-Muslims can now eat and drink in public during Ramadan, I always try to be mindful of friends and colleagues who are fasting, avoiding eating or drinking directly in front of them. Out of kindness, they’ll often insist it’s fine, but showing this respect feels essential to me.
Additionally, note that playing loud music is discouraged in most venues during Ramadan, and live music is often paused as part of observing this special time. Being aware of these cultural rules in Dubai during the holy month helps ensure that visitors are respectful of local customs.
3. Conduct and Behaviour
Never Swear or Use Hand Gestures While Driving
This is one rule in Dubai that could easily trip up visitors.
Driving in the city can be stressful, with other motorists often being pushy and reluctant to give way. Defensive driving is essential.
However, in moments of frustration, avoid using hand gestures, such as raising your middle finger, as this can result in serious legal consequences.
Swearing at other drivers or pedestrians can also lead to trouble. It’s best to keep calm, maintain the moral high ground, and drive safely.

Prohibition of Loud Music
Dubai’s rules around loud music, particularly in residential areas, are stricter than some may expect. Although loud music is typical in certain venues, such as Dubai’s popular weekend brunches and night-clubs, in residential neighbourhoods, it’s discouraged.
If you’re staying in an Airbnb or similar property, keep the volume down, particularly in the evening. Excessive noise after 8 pm can lead to neighbour complaints and, in some cases, police involvement. Rules vary slightly by neighbourhood, but as a general guideline, if it’s loud enough to disturb others, it’s too loud.
Alcohol and Driving
Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. With taxis and public transportation being affordable, it’s simply not worth the risk.
If the police stop you and detect alcohol in your system, you could face serious consequences, including a minimum fine of 20,000 AED, vehicle confiscation, and up to 23 black points on your license.
Additionally, you may spend a night in police custody and potentially face further imprisonment.
Drinking and Public Behaviour
Drinking alcohol in Dubai is permitted, but being visibly intoxicated in public is frowned upon and can attract police attention. If you are drinking at a bar or restaurant, it’s wise to take a taxi directly from the venue to your home, rather than walking outside in an intoxicated state. For more detailed information, see my post “Can You Drink in Dubai? Alcohol Laws Explained.”

Drug Laws
Dubai maintains zero tolerance for drugs. In my 21 years here, thankfully I’ve never encountered drugs. The absence of drugs in society really contributes to Dubai’s safe and secure atmosphere. The UAE’s laws regarding drug possession and use are extremely strict. While minor changes were made in 2022—such as reducing the penalty for possession of THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis) to a fine and confiscation—any harder drugs still carry harsh penalties.
Possession of or trafficking drugs through DXB (Dubai International Airport) can result in a minimum five-year jail sentence and a fine of at least 50,000 AED.

Drug Testing and Residency
Under UAE law, even the presence of narcotics in blood or urine tests is considered possession, which can result in prosecution. Those applying for a UAE residency visa will be required to undergo blood tests screening for drugs, HIV, and hepatitis.
Following these conduct and behaviour rules in Dubai helps ensure a respectful and trouble-free visit.
4. Public Transport and Smoking Regulations
The Dubai Metro is one of the best ways to beat traffic and travel efficiently from one end of the city to the other. However, there are specific rules in Dubai when it comes to using the Metro and other forms of public transport, which visitors should be aware of to avoid fines and respect local customs.
Public Transport Rules
⚠️ Use a Nol Card: A Nol card is essential for accessing the metro system. You must keep a minimum balance of 7.50 AED on the card. Nol cards can be purchased at all Metro stations and transportation centres.
⚠️ Priority Seating: Dubai takes priority seating seriously. It’s best to avoid sitting in these seats to leave them available for pregnant women, senior citizens, and people of determination.
⚠️ Queue Up: Follow the “In/Out” signs on metro platforms, and avoid cutting in line. Adhering to these rules in Dubai helps maintain an orderly and respectful environment on public transport.
⚠️ No Eating, Drinking or Smoking: Eating, drinking and smoking are strictly prohibited on Dubai’s public transport network.
Smoking Rules in Dubai
Smoking is strictly controlled in Dubai and is not allowed on public transport or in public spaces such as malls, government buildings, offices, and parks. Some restaurants and bars offer designated smoking areas where it is permitted.
During Ramadan, it is culturally inappropriate to smoke in public during daylight hours. If you are smoking outside a mall or on a beach, remember to dispose of your cigarette butts properly—do not leave them on the ground or in the sand, as littering is taken seriously in Dubai.
5. Greetings and Etiquette
As Dubai is such a rich melting pot of cultures, it can be difficult to know how to negotiate greetings with other people of differing backgrounds.

Greetings and Etiquette
Muslim Arabic speakers will usually greet with the expression ‘As-salaam ‘alykum’ – which means ‘peace be upon you’. The correct response is ‘Wa-alaykum as-salaam’ – which basically reciprocates the message. As a non-Muslim, it is ok to use these salutations when meeting someone.
Other words that you may hear are ‘Ahlan’ meaning hello or ‘Marhaba’ – welcome.
If you want to say thank you in Arabic – use the word ‘Shukran’ which will be responded to with the word ‘Afwan.’
Handshakes are customary in Dubai’s culture and etiquette. However there are some rules that are important to remember.
⚠️ Only offer your right hand for a handshake – never the left.
⚠️ As a male, never offer your hand to a muslim female. Only shake hands with a female if they offer their hand first. Otherwise a simple word to greet is adequate. A hand gesture can be to place a hand over your heart with a nod to show respect in your greeting.
PDAs (Public Displays of Affection)
Certain public displays of affection can be culturally inappropriate. Kissing and embracing publicly is strictly forbidden and must be avoided.
6. Shopping Rules in Dubai: Bargaining and Tipping Tips
When visiting Dubai’s traditional souks, part of the thrill lies in bargaining for unique finds. Learning the rules in Dubai’s souks can help you get the best deals while enjoying the experience.
💡 Top Tip – Don’t hesitate to stand your ground when haggling. Starting at around 50% of the initial asking price is common and can lead to an exhilarating bargaining exchange. Enjoy the theatrics and make it part of your Dubai shopping adventure!

In Dubai’s commercial malls, however, bargaining is not standard practice. Prices are fixed, but you can still enjoy generous discounts during shopping festivals and sales throughout the year.
Tipping Rules in Dubai
Tipping in Dubai isn’t governed by strict rules, so it often comes down to personal choice. However, it’s worth noting that many service workers earn modest wages, so any tips are greatly appreciated and help supplement their income. Here are some general tipping guidelines:
🍽️ Restaurants – 10-15% of the total bill.
☕️ Cafes – 5-10AED or 10% of the total bill.
🏍️ Delivery drivers – 5-10AED
🧳 Porters & Valets – 5-10AED
💈 Hair & Beauty – 10-20AED
⛽️ Petrol Station Attendants – round up or 5AED
🚕 Taxi Drivers – 5-10AED
🪧 Tour Guides – 10% up to 100AED
These guidelines offer a practical overview of tipping practices in Dubai, allowing visitors to respect local customs while supporting service workers.
7. Health and Safety Rules in Dubai
When it comes to health and safety, there are specific rules in Dubai that visitors should be aware of, especially concerning vaccinations, medication, and residency requirements.
Vaccine Requirements
Currently, there are no vaccine requirements for tourists entering Dubai, and proof of a Covid vaccine is not required at check-in.

However, if you are applying for a residency visa in Dubai or the UAE, you will need to undergo screening for communicable diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis.
A positive test result for these diseases can lead to arrest, detention, and deportation without appeal. For more information, check the official UAE Government Portal.
Medication and Prescription Guidelines
Medication rules in Dubai can be strict, particularly for those who require strong painkillers or controlled substances. Some medications that may be legal in your home country are classified as controlled substances in the UAE, and bringing them into the country without following the proper process can lead to serious consequences.
If you need to travel with prescribed medications, you can easily pre-register your medications for free through the government website, ensuring a smooth and worry-free visit. Pre-register your medications here.

FAQs
What to Do If I Break the Rules in Dubai?
If you break the rules and are taken into Police custody, you should know your rights which include the right to; ask for bail (which may not be granted), request a sworn translator, have legal representation, make phone calls and receive visitors.
You should contact the embassy of your home country for further assistance. They will give you legal guidance that you need and help to connect you with a lawyer.
Can I Enter Dubai with Prescription Drugs?
Yes, but you need to check whether the prescription drugs that you have are not classified as controlled substances in the UAE. More information on controlled substances can be found here.
If you need to travel with prescribed medications the best thing to do is to pre-register your medications through the government website. And remember to carry your prescription with you, just to be safe.
Can Unmarried Couples in Dubai Share a Hotel Room?
This has always been a very grey area. However recent reforms to the laws in Dubai, permit unmarried non-Muslim couples to cohabit including staying in hotels. However, as I have consistently shown through my post, being culturally aware of staying in a host country that has laws and values underpinned by the religion of Islam is of primary importance.
Important Emergency Numbers
- 999 – Police
- 998 – Ambulance/Medical Emergency
- 997 – Civil Defence (Fire Department)
- 996 – Coastguard
- 995 – Search and Rescue
- 991 – Electricity Failure
In addition to the phone numbers there are also apps for Dubai Police and Dubai Ambulance.

🇬🇧 British Embassy, Dubai – +971 (0)4 309 4444
🇺🇸 USA Consulate, Dubai – +971 (0)4 309 4000
🇨🇦 Canadian Consulate, Dubai – +971 (0)4 404 8444
🇦🇺 Australian Consulate, Dubai- +971 (0)4 508 7100
🇳🇿 New Zealand Consulate, Dubai – +971 (0)4 270 0100
🇿🇦 South African Consulate, Dubai – +971 4 397 5222
The Wrap Up: 7 Dubai Rules for Visitors from a Long-Term Resident
Navigating Dubai’s rules is key to making the most of your visit to this vibrant city. By being aware of local customs and respecting regulations—from dress codes to public behaviour—you’ll ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience and show appreciation for Dubai’s unique culture. Following these guidelines not only helps you blend seamlessly into daily life here but also enhances your overall visit.
In essence, Dubai’s rules reflect its commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment for everyone. A bit of preparation allows you to explore freely and confidently, making your time in Dubai both memorable and respectful of its local traditions.
