UAE Rules: What You Need to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Planning a trip or a move to Dubai? The city is modern, but the rules are a mix of tradition and strict law. Knowing the basics can keep you out of trouble and make your visit smoother. Below you’ll find the most common questions – from kissing in a bar to chewing gum – with simple answers.

Everyday Legal Basics

Public decency is taken seriously. Public displays of affection (PDA) like kissing are fine in private bars, but a quick kiss in a mall can earn you a fine. If you’re with a partner, most hotels will let you share a room, but they may ask for passports at check‑in. Unmarried couples are not illegal, just be ready to show ID.

Chewing gum is legal, but avoid littering or chewing it on public transport. The fine for trash can be steep, so toss it in a bin. Vaping is allowed in designated smoking areas; carry it in your hand luggage, not checked bags, and never vape in parks or malls.

Specific Rules You Might Forget

Condoms are legal and can be bought at pharmacies without issue. If you’re pregnant and unmarried, you can give birth in Dubai, but you’ll need extra paperwork for the birth certificate. Alcohol is only served in licensed venues – drinking in public is a punishable offense.

Grindr and some other dating apps are blocked, but you can still access them via a VPN – just know that using a VPN for illegal activity is itself a crime. Cursing in public can lead to fines, especially if it’s directed at officials or includes obscene gestures.

Red‑light districts do not exist in Dubai; prostitution is illegal and carries heavy penalties. If you’re looking for companionship, stick to licensed venues and respect local customs.

When it comes to dress, showing cleavage is acceptable in hotel pools and some nightclubs, but modest clothing is expected in malls, government buildings, and religious sites. A simple rule: if in doubt, cover up a little.

Finally, keep an eye on the fine schedule. Simple offenses like littering a gum wrapper or using a prohibited word can cost anywhere from 200 to 1,000 AED. Knowing the fine amounts helps you avoid surprise charges.

Bottom line: Dubai blends modern comforts with traditional rules. Follow the basics, respect the culture, and you’ll have a hassle‑free stay. Need more detail? Check our individual articles on kissing in bars, vaping rules, hotel cohabitation, and other UAE topics for deeper insight.