10 Things NOT To Do in Dubai, UAE

Headed to Dubai? That’s amazing! There is no shortage of incredible things to do in this desert oasis. But, be prepared – there is also a list of things NOT to do in Dubai in order to show respect for this amazing culture. Keep reading to learn what not to do in Dubai as well as several laws in Dubai that tourists should know about. Let’s dive in.

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If you are traveling to Dubai, surely you have been researching all of the amazing reasons to visit Dubai and all of the wonderful things to do there. As one of the world’s most glamorous and multinational cities, there is a lot to experience!

However, the culture is much more conservative than most of Europe and the United States, so it is important to know what to do – as well as what not to do in Dubai – so that you don’t offend the locals.

I get asked a lot if Dubai is safe for Americans to visit, and the answer is yes. But, there are certainly some behaviors that you should be careful to avoid.

After spending countless months in Dubai over the last decade, I have some advice to share for first-timers. Let’s go!

10 Things NOT To Do in Dubai as a Tourist

1: Don’t Dress Inappropriately

Modern city or not, the conservative culture of Islam runs deep in Dubai’s veins. I’ve read on a lot of blogs that you can wear “whatever you want here” since so many expats call Dubai home. I can understand why they’d say that, but I quite disagree.

Personally, I believe this is an issue of respect. Whether you are Muslim or not, you are in a Muslim country. I think it’s important to adapt to local customs and culture when traveling. And in Dubai, that means covering up and dressing appropriately.

Maybe in night clubs and beach resorts, nobody will bat an eye at skimpy clothing. But out and about, you should definitely choose conservative dress. In taking this advice, you will also avoid uncomfortable and unwelcome stares and comments, too!

I have an entire post for females on what to pack for Dubai, but here are the basics.

• Avoid tight, short, or revealing clothes.
• Swimwear should only be work at the beach.
• Cover your head when visiting a mosque or religious site.

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2: Don’t Exhibit Any Public Displays of Affection (PDA)

When walking around Dubai, you will not see couples kissing, cuddling, or even holding hands, typically. Signs of affection are largely avoided in public, whether at a restaurant, a mall, the beach, etc.

Minor things, like a hug at the airport, are fine. But locals will certainly notice if you are being overly affectionate, because these behaviors are so taboo. It is technically illegal for unwed couples to engage in sex in the UAE, and even as a tourist you need to be cautious when out and about.

In Dubai, it has become fairly normalized for unmarried tourists to share a hotel room. I’ve seen this become more and more relaxed over the last decade. But in a more conservative area like Sharjah, it may still be a problem.

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3: Don’t Get Drunk or Consume Alcohol in Undesignated Areas

Next on our list of what not to do in Dubai involves alcohol and intoxication. Alcohol is technically forbidden in the Muslim culture, so it is not something you will commonly see being consumed. Not by locals, at least.

Because of the high number of expats in Dubai, though, alcohol is widely available at night clubs, restaurants, and in hotels. You can also purchase it at specialty and duty free shops.

Pro Tip: Be sure to familiarize yourself with all of the rules and regulations on consuming alcohol in Dubai before you drink! There are hefty consequences for breaking them.

However, that doesn’t mean you should not use caution. Never drink and drive, and only consume alcohol in areas that it is specifically stated to be allowed.

4: Don’t Use Illegal Drugs

Along that same vein, illegal drugs are a big no-no in Dubai. You could land yourself in jail just for possession, be deported, or for larger drug offenses, be punished with life in prison.

This applies to tourists, locals, and even transit passengers through the airport. It’s definitely not worth it!

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5: Don’t Disrespect Women

In the UAE, and specifically in Dubai, you will encounter plenty of women working at hotels, banks, and grocery stores. It is actually quite common nowadays to see women in the workforce here.

And, it is completely okay to interact with and speak to women on the job whether you are male or female.

However, a man should not approach a random woman on the street in Dubai. Local life is pretty private and such an act can be viewed as disrespectful.

A man should also not touch a woman he is not traveling with, even if it was meant in an innocent way, like a hand on the shoulder or similar. Additionally, never take a woman’s photo without asking first.

Pro Tip: Want to learn more about visiting Abu Dhabi as a woman, or solo female travel in Dubai? I’ve got you covered on both fronts!

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6: Don’t Insult Islam

This will probably not be a surprise, but insulting or undermining Islam is extremely offensive to locals. The Islamic religion is the heart and life-blood of the UAE, and it’s incredibly beautiful.

Any act that insults Islam can lead to a hefty fine and even jail time. But, I assume that most tourists are visiting because they have a respect or at least a kind curiosity, so this should be an easy rule to follow.

Need more inspiration for your visit to the UAE? My Dubai & Abu Dhabi Travel Guide is jam-packed with attractions and tips for both areas.

7: Don’t Be Disrespectful During Ramadan

Ramadan is an important practice in Islam. Each year, Muslims observe Ramadan by fasting during daytime hours until the sun has set. In this is a holy month, devout Muslims also avoid cigarettes, food, and even drinking water until nightfall.

If you visit or reside here during the holy month, you should personally avoid taking part in these activities in public. Non-Muslims should only eat, drink, smoke, etc. in the privacy of their on homes or hotels.

The evenings of Ramadan are a celebration, where people gather to break their fast – a practice called Iftar. But if this isn’t something you want to cater to, simply avoid visiting during this month. (The dates change each year so you will need to research when they fall).

8: Don’t Insult the Rulers

Dubai is one of seven emirates (or states) that comprise the UAE. Each emirate has a ruler or Sheik, and each Sheik is highly respected by the public. It is illegal to disrespect the rulers of the UAE, and this is one of the most important things not to do in Dubai.

9: Don’t Lose Track of Your Finances

Can you believe that taking on debt in the UAE can actually lead to jail time if you’re not careful? This might be hard to believe if you are from countries where credit cards and massive debt are (unfortunately) the norm.

In the UAE, debt is a criminal matter rather than a civil one. This means that if a borrower misses or is late with payments, it could lead to a three year jail sentence in serious cases.

Be very careful, even as a visitor, to only take on activities that you can definitely pay for.

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10: Don’t Swear or Use Rude Gestures

In Dubai, it is illegal to swear at or use obscenities toward another individual, even in the heat of the moment. Offenders may be fined or jailed.

So, check your road rage, take deep breaths, and don’t even think of flipping someone the bird here. If you offend the wrong person, you may find yourself in some hot water!

BONUS: Don’t Skip Liwa Desert

I’m adding in a bonus item on this list of things not to do in Dubai: You simply can’t miss going out to Liwa for at least one day.

Liwa Desert is the true heart of the Arabian Desert. The small Dubai Desert, less than an hour outside of the city and home to all of the dinner safari tours, can be nice. Don’t get me wrong. But Liwa is where it’s at.

Endless orange dunes as far as the eye can see, roaming camels, and miles from civilization…. what’s not to like? This is one experience you simply can’t afford to miss in Dubai.

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I know that this list can seem intimidating if you have never traveled to the Middle East before. But I promise, the people of Dubai are incredibly welcoming and friendly.

In no time at all, you will feel comfortable and curious. And, there is plenty to explore! Check out my UAE articles below for more planning inspiration.

And, have a great trip!

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