Hotel Policy Dubai: What You Need to Know Before You Book

When you book a hotel in Dubai, a city where local laws shape everyday experiences, even inside private rooms. Also known as UAE hotel regulations, these policies aren’t just about check-in times—they control who you can stay with, what you can wear, and even if you can have a drink in your room. Many travelers assume hotels in Dubai work like those in Europe or the U.S. They don’t. What’s normal elsewhere can land you in trouble here.

Dubai’s hotel policies are tied to national laws around cohabitation, the legal status of unmarried couples sharing a room. Even if you’re just visiting, sharing a bed with someone you’re not married to breaks the law. Hotels are required to ask for proof of marriage at check-in, and some keep records. While enforcement varies—some places ignore it, others report violations—there’s no guarantee you’ll be safe. The same goes for alcohol policy, where drinking is allowed only on licensed premises like hotel bars or private resorts. You can’t bring a bottle to the beach, and public intoxication leads to fines or arrest. Even in all-inclusive resorts, alcohol is restricted to designated areas. Outside those zones? Zero tolerance.

Then there’s dress code, how you’re expected to behave in public spaces, including hotel lobbies and pools. Shorts are fine at the beach or gym, but not in the lobby of a luxury hotel. Women wearing tank tops or men in sleeveless shirts might get side-eye—or worse, be asked to leave. These aren’t suggestions. They’re cultural expectations backed by law. And if you’re wondering about vaping, sleeping with your partner, or bringing condoms? Each has its own legal layer. Vaping is banned outright. Condoms can be used as evidence against you if you’re suspected of sex work. And yes, hotels do report unmarried couples to authorities in some cases.

These rules aren’t random. They’re part of a larger system that controls public behavior, protects religious norms, and limits foreign influence. That’s why hotel staff are trained to spot violations. They’re not being nosy—they’re following protocol. The good news? If you know the rules, you can enjoy Dubai without risk. Stick to licensed hotels. Keep public displays of affection to a minimum. Dress modestly outside your room. And never assume your home country’s norms apply here.

Below, you’ll find real stories and practical guides that break down exactly how these policies play out—from what happens when a hotel checks your ID, to how to handle a surprise police visit, to which resorts are safest for couples. No fluff. No guesses. Just what you need to stay out of trouble and make the most of your trip.