So, you're planning to visit Dubai, the Middle East's most dazzling city! Keep in mind that Dubai is still mostly an Islamic state, even though it is a fast-developing, multicultural metropolis, so there are rules in Dubai for tourists! While seeing magnificent sites and exhilarating experiences is definitely on your list, you can make the most of your trip to Dubai by familiarising yourself with the local customs and laws. A refresher or an introduction of the dos and don'ts in Dubai will truly make your trip smooth and worry-free! While certain Western traditions may be tolerated, the UAE has strict regulations that make many acts that are considered "normal" elsewhere quite illegal. Every visitor visiting Dubai would do well to remember the following key etiquette and manners. Here are all the Dubai guidelines for tourists!
Do: Put on your best modest attire
"When in Rome, do as the Romans do" is an old saying that everyone is familiar with. Remember to respect the local dress code in Dubai and be mindful of Emirati culture. This in no way implies that you are limited to wearing simply the traditional attire of the area. It is respectful to wear a headscarf or shawl at religious sites, etc., although tourists are not required to do so at all times.
While it is perfectly acceptable to wear swimwear (including bikinis) in pools and beaches, it is considered quite rude to do so anyplace else.
Shorts, skirts, dresses, or anything else that is knee-length or shorter is acceptable. Wearing loose-fitting dresses or skirts with leggings underneath is ideal.
Don’t: Carry medicine without a proper prescription
Dubai tourist requirements are very strict when it comes to drug use. Drug use is one thing that Dubai just will not abide by. Before your trip to Dubai, be sure that all of your prescriptions are up-to-date. Make sure you have all of your medications on hand, and stay away from any medication that the authorities could frown upon. When it comes to rules, this is among the most important Dubai laws for tourists.
Do: Maintain decorum
If you are wondering about Dubai guidelines for tourists, this is an important one to remember! Aggressive disagreements and fights are punishable by fines, according to Dubai's tourism legislation. Verbal abuse is also included. Furthermore, yelling, raving, and arguing are not tolerated and are seen as disrespectful, regardless of where you are in the globe. The main distinction is that in this country, the consequences may be rather serious, including possible deportation or imprisonment, depending on the gravity of the act.
Don’t: Be drunk in public
If you are looking up Dubai tourist requirements, here’s an easy one—don't be visibly drunk in public! Guests from all around the world may find alcoholic beverages in the hotels' bars, clubs, and restaurants. Being drunk or otherwise inebriated in a public place is against the law. Getting drunk and disoriented in public places is something you want to avoid. Doing this is considered inappropriate and may result in a traffic stop.
Do: Proper Salutation
"As-Salam Alaykum," meaning "peace be upon you" in Arabic, is the proper way to greet someone. An answer like "Wa'alaykum As-Salam"—"peace be upon you too"—is how you should respond. When it comes to rules in Dubai for tourists, as a formality, shaking hands is customary during initial meetings but this is going to be a gentle, light handshake, not a hard one. A gentleman should wait for a lady to extend her hand before shaking it. Only in a more casual and intimate relationship would a man put his hands together and kiss you on the cheek. To welcome and greet another person, males only do this with other men and women only with other women.
Don't: Public displays of affection
One of the most important Dubai visit guidelines is related to PDA. Public displays of love are frowned upon in Dubai. Not only is it rude, but it's also illegal. Getting into any kind of problem beyond simple handholding or brief embraces is highly discouraged. A hefty fine or maybe prison time awaits you for any more displays of love. Therefore, it is recommended that these activities be conducted in a private setting.