PDA Dubai Rules: Your Quick Guide for 2025

Visiting Dubai and wondering if a quick kiss or a hand‑hold will land you in hot water? You’re not alone. The UAE mixes modern life with strict public decency laws, so knowing the dos and don’ts saves you time, money, and a possible fine.

Where Public Affection Is Accepted

In 2025 you can show a little love in private venues – hotel lobbies, bars, and private clubs usually allow a quick peck if you’re discreet. Public parks, malls, and the metro are a different story. Even a brief hug can be flagged as indecent, especially during Ramadan or in family‑focused areas.

Best practice: keep affection low‑key. A light handshake, a friendly arm around a partner, or a brief kiss inside a restaurant is fine. Walk hand‑in‑hand only on quiet streets and avoid eye‑catching displays near schools or government buildings.

Hotel Rules for Unmarried Couples

Most Dubai hotels welcome unmarried couples, but they often ask for two pieces of ID at check‑in. Bring passports, and be ready to fill out a short “co‑habitation” form. If you’re staying in a boutique hotel or an Airbnb, double‑check the listing – some places still require proof of marriage.

When you book, look for properties that explicitly state “unmarried couples welcome.” This saves you the awkward moment at the front desk. Once inside, you’re free to be yourselves – the hotel’s private spaces aren’t policed for PDA.

Remember, the rules differ for short‑term rentals. Dubai now allows legal Airbnb operations, but hosts may have their own policies. Read the house rules carefully and respect any no‑pda clauses.

So, what should you do if you’re caught? If a security officer approaches, stay calm, apologize, and explain you didn’t realize the rule. Fines for public kissing range from AED 500 to AED 2,000, but most officers issue a warning if you’re cooperative.

In short, keep affection subtle in public, use private venues for romance, and always have your IDs ready when checking into a hotel. Follow these simple steps and you’ll enjoy Dubai’s glittering skyline without worrying about legal trouble.