Reached Dubai? That’s so cool! It’s a place like no other, you know? One minute, you’re looking at these amazing, shiny buildings that seem to touch the clouds, and the next, you’re strolling through ancient markets with a scent of spices in the air. It’s this wild mix of modern and old that makes it so special.
And hey, since it’s a bit different from many places, there are just a few simple things to keep in mind. Knowing the local customs and Dubai do’s and don’ts isn’t just about avoiding a little trouble; it’s about showing respect and being a good guest. When you get the hang of it, you’ll feel right at home. Here’s a rundown of everything you should know.
The Dubai Do’s
✅ Respect the Dress Code
This is one of the most talked-about things. When you’re at the beach or the pool at your hotel, it’s fine to wear swimsuits. But once you leave the water area, it’s a good idea to put on clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. This is especially true in public spots like malls, restaurants, or the city’s older neighborhoods. You’ll see plenty of people wearing all sorts of things, but dressing a little more modestly is a simple way to show respect for the local way of life.
✅ Be Polite & Respectful
Simple manners go a long way. People in Dubai are so friendly, and if you can learn a simple greeting like “As-salamu alaykum” (which means “peace be with you”), it’s a nice touch. It’s also a good idea to show respect for elders and local customs. Just being kind and polite makes everyone’s day better.
✅ Follow the Laws Strictly
Dubai has some pretty clear rules that help keep everything running smoothly. One tip for your wallet or bag is to always carry a copy of your ID, like your passport. Also, when you’re driving, be sure to follow all the traffic laws. This is a place where rules are followed, and it’s a good idea to do the same. And remember that rule about not littering? It’s a real thing, with real fines!
✅ Use Public Transport Smartly
The Dubai Metro is super clean and easy. You should definitely use it. Here’s a cool fact: there are special cabins just for women and children. This is a cultural thing and a great option if you prefer it. You can get a Nol card to pay for all your trips, which is really handy.
✅ Enjoy Cultural Experiences
Some of the best parts of your trip will be diving into the culture. If you get a chance to visit a mosque, you should! It’s a beautiful experience. Just be sure to wear the proper clothes. Women will need a head covering, and both men and women should have their arms and legs covered. Many mosques will provide robes for you. Also, be sure to try some delicious Emirati food, like Machboos, and see if there are any cultural festivals happening when you’re there.
✅ Shop & Bargain (Respectfully)
You’ve got to go to the souks! The Gold Souk is amazing, but you’ll also find spices and textiles. When you’re there, you should definitely bargain. It’s not rude; it’s just part of the experience. Just do it with a smile. It’s a fun back-and-forth, and you’ll likely get a better price.
The Dubai Don’ts
❌ Don’t Publicly Show Affection
This is a big one to remember. While holding hands with your partner is generally okay, kissing or hugging in public is a definite no-go. This is a law. You won’t believe this, but a few people have gotten into serious trouble for it. The UAE Public Prosecution has stated that public indecency can lead to a fine of up to AED 50,000 (about $13,600 USD) and sometimes even jail time.
❌ Don’t Use Offensive Language or Gestures
Just don’t swear or make rude hand gestures in public. The laws are strict about this. Back in 2017, a British man was sentenced to three months in jail for shouting an insult at a taxi driver. It’s just not worth the risk.
❌ Don’t Drink Alcohol in Public
Alcohol is only served at licensed spots like hotels, bars, and clubs. You can have a great time at these places. But it is against the law to drink in public. Being drunk in public can lead to fines up to AED 100,000 or even jail. So, if you are having a drink, just make sure to do it in the right place.
❌ Don’t Photograph People Without Permission
This is super important. You should never take a picture of a person without asking first. This is especially true for women and families. Also, you should not take pictures of government buildings, military spots, or airports. It’s a matter of privacy and law.
❌ Don’t Eat or Drink in Public During Ramadan (Daytime)
During the holy month of Ramadan, many locals are fasting from sunrise to sunset. To be polite, you should not eat, drink, or smoke in public during the day. This applies to everyone, even visitors. You can still eat at your hotel or at restaurants that have special sections for people who are not fasting.
❌ Don’t Cross-Dress or Wear Revealing Outfits
Be aware of what you wear in public. Cross-dressing is not allowed. Also, outfits that are very revealing can be seen as an offense against public decency. This could lead to a fine or even time in jail.
❌ Don’t Litter or Spit in Public
Dubai is famous for how clean it is. Throwing trash on the ground or spitting in public is against the law. The fine for littering is AED 500. So, just keep an eye out for trash cans, which are everywhere.
Extra Tips for Tourists
- Malls & Attractions: You can wear a bit more casual stuff at some of the bigger malls, but it’s always a good idea to have a light scarf or jacket with you to throw on if you need it.
- Safety: Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world. Just use common sense, like you would at home. If you have an emergency, the Dubai Police number is 999.
- Apps: There are lots of great apps to help you get around, like Careem or the RTA app for public transport.
Wrapping up Dubai Do’s and Don’ts
So, there you have it! Dubai is a city that loves to show off its hospitality. By keeping these simple things in mind, you’re all set for an amazing trip. The rules are easy to follow, and they will help you have a smooth and respectful time. Now go have some fun!
For more general travel tips, you can check out this ultimate Dubai travel guide.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
The weather is nicest between November and March. That’s when it’s sunny and warm, but not too hot. The summer months (June to August) are extremely hot, and it’s a good time to go if you just want to hang out at the mall and pools.
Can I get by with just English in Dubai?
You bet! Dubai is home to people from all over the world. English is widely spoken just about everywhere, in hotels, restaurants, malls, and shops. So you’ll have no trouble communicating.
Is Dubai a safe place for a solo female traveler?
Yes, absolutely. Dubai is considered one of the safest cities in the world. People are respectful, and you’ll see many women traveling on their own. Just use your normal common sense, like you would anywhere else.
Can I show affection in public in Dubai?
It’s best to keep public displays of affection to a minimum. Holding hands with your partner is usually fine, but kissing or hugging in public is not allowed and can get you in trouble.
Where can I drink alcohol in Dubai?
You can enjoy a drink at licensed spots like hotels, bars, and clubs. It’s not allowed to drink in public places, and being intoxicated in public can lead to serious fines.
