Dubai Rules Guide: What You Need to Know in 2025

Thinking about heading to Dubai? You’ll find a mix of modern skyscrapers, desert adventures, and a set of rules that can feel a bit tricky if you’re not used to them. This page pulls together the most useful facts from our Dubai‑rules articles so you can travel, work or live there without surprise fines or awkward moments.

From public behavior to what you can pack in your luggage, the rules are clear once you break them down. Below you’ll get practical steps, short checklists, and real‑world examples that you can copy straight into your travel plan.

Legal Must‑Knows

First up, the law. Dubai follows the UAE Penal Code, which means many actions that are fine at home are actually illegal here. Public displays of affection, like kissing in a bar, can lead to a fine or a warning. If you’re not married, you can still share a hotel room, but the staff may ask for ID to confirm you’re both adults.

Chewing gum is allowed, but you can’t litter it on the streets or public transport – you’ll get a fine for that. Vaping is okay in designated smoking zones, but carrying it in your checked luggage is not recommended, and CBD‑infused products are banned outright.

Sexual health items such as condoms are legal, but bring them in your hand luggage to avoid customs questions. Any form of public cursing or obscene gestures can be treated as a criminal offense, so keep it polite in public places.

Practical Everyday Tips

Dress modestly, especially in malls, government buildings, and religious sites. Showing cleavage is fine in upscale clubs, but a more covered outfit is safer in family‑friendly areas. When you’re in a mall, avoid approaching women aggressively; a respectful hello and polite conversation work better.

If you plan to use dating apps, know that some, like Grindr, may be blocked. Using a VPN is legal, but you must not engage in illegal activities while connected. For Airbnb stays, make sure the host has the proper Dubai short‑term rental license – most listings do, but double‑check the description.

Transport is straightforward: the metro doesn’t allow chewing gum on the floor, and you’ll need a card to pay for rides. Taxis accept cash and cards; just ask the driver for a receipt if you need proof of payment. When you rent a car, remember that you must have a valid International Driving Permit.

Finally, keep a copy of your passport, visa and any travel insurance on your phone. If you’re an expat, registering with your embassy can speed up any legal help you might need.

These quick pointers cover the most common questions about Dubai rules. Use them as a checklist before you book, and you’ll avoid most of the pitfalls that trip up first‑time visitors. Happy travels!