Dubai Hotel Rules You Need to Know Before You Book

Planning a trip to Dubai and wondering if you can share a room with your partner? You’re not alone. The rules have changed a bit over the years, and a lot of hotels still ask the same questions: who are you, where are you from, and why are you staying together? Below you’ll get the basics that will keep your check‑in smooth and your stay hassle‑free.

Who Can Book a Room?

First off, anyone can book a hotel room in Dubai – tourists, expats, business travellers, you name it. The catch is the paperwork. Most hotels require a passport copy for each guest and a credit card for the reservation. If you’re an unmarried couple, the hotel may ask for a marriage certificate or proof you’re staying for a short visit. In practice, many five‑star and mid‑range hotels will let you stay together without a marriage certificate, but they’ll still ask for both passports.

Budget hotels and some boutique places are stricter. They often have a policy that only married couples or single travellers can book a double room. If you’re okay with a twin‑bed or a single‑occupancy room, you’ll usually avoid the extra questions. The safest bet is to call the hotel ahead of time, mention you’re traveling as a couple, and ask what documents they need. A quick email or phone call can save you from an awkward front‑desk moment.

Tips to Breeze Through Check‑In

Arrive early enough to give the staff time to verify your IDs. Have both passports ready, and if you have a printed reservation email, keep it handy. Some hotels also accept a digital copy on your phone, but a printed version feels more official.

Be honest about your relationship status. Trying to hide that you’re together often backfires when the staff spots two people sharing a room. If a hotel asks for a marriage certificate and you don’t have one, politely explain that you’re a couple visiting for leisure and that you understand the local customs. Most will accept a simple statement and let you in.

Dress modestly when you first walk into the lobby, especially if it’s a high‑end property. A short‑sleeve shirt and shorts are fine for most places, but a bit more covered attire shows respect and can make the staff more comfortable.

When you’re checking out, keep the receipt and any itemised bill. Some hotels charge a “morning service” fee if you leave before a certain hour, and a late‑checkout charge if you stay too long. Knowing these fees up front helps you avoid surprise costs.

Finally, respect local customs while you’re in the city. Public displays of affection are limited to private spaces, and you’ll find that the hotel’s own rules often mirror that. Keep any intimacy inside your room, and you’ll have no trouble with the authorities or hotel staff.

Bottom line: Dubai’s hotel rules are straightforward once you know what to bring and how to answer a few simple questions. Bring both passports, be clear about your relationship, and call ahead if you’re staying at a budget spot. Follow these tips and you’ll spend more time enjoying the city and less time worrying about the front desk.