Unmarried Couples in Dubai Hotels – What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re planning a getaway to Dubai with your partner, the biggest question is usually: can we stay together in a hotel room? The short answer is yes – most hotels accept unmarried couples, but there are a few practical steps you should follow to avoid awkward check‑in moments.

Legal backdrop: why Dubai lets you share a room

Dubai’s cohabitation law focuses on public decency, not on who you’re travelling with. As long as you’re not displaying overt public affection in places where it’s prohibited, the state doesn’t require a marriage certificate. The main legal requirement is that both guests are over 18 and can show a valid ID.

Hotel policies – what they really ask for

Most hotels will ask for two pieces of identification (passport or Emirates ID) and a credit card for incidentals. Some upscale properties may request proof of relationship, but that’s rare in 2025. If you book through a reputable site, you’ll see a “couples” or “double occupancy” option that signals the room is fine for unmarried pairs.

Here’s a quick checklist for a smooth check‑in:

• Carry both passports or IDs. If one partner doesn’t have a passport, a driver’s licence plus a secondary ID usually works.
• Make sure the credit card matches the name of the primary guest. Hotels often tag the card to the main reservation holder.
• Travel during non‑Ramadan periods if you want full bar access and more relaxed PDA rules.
• Read the hotel’s “Family & Couples” policy on its website – a few lines can save you a night of confusion.

Airbnb hosts follow similar rules. The platform verifies ID for both guests, and most listings state they’re fine with unmarried couples. Just double‑check the “House Rules” section before you book.

Now, what about public displays of affection (PDA)? In Dubai you can hold hands and give a quick hug in most public places. Kissing, especially in a bar or private lounge, is generally tolerated, but a full‑blown make‑out session can draw a warning from security. Keep it low‑key, especially in shopping malls or during Ramadan.

Speaking of Ramadan, many hotels switch off alcohol service and tighten PDA rules during the holy month. If you’re planning a stay during Ramadan, book a room that clearly states it’s “non‑alcoholic” and be prepared for more conservative staff attitudes.

What about safety? Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, but it helps to stay in well‑reviewed hotels and avoid hidden‑camera rooms (a rare issue but worth mentioning). Use the hotel’s safe for valuables and keep a copy of your reservation email handy.

Finally, a couple of money‑saving tips:

• Book directly on the hotel’s website for loyalty points and sometimes free breakfast.
• Look for “couples packages” that include dinner or spa credits – they’re often cheaper than adding extras later.
• Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges.

Bottom line: you can absolutely share a hotel room in Dubai as an unmarried couple. Just bring proper ID, a credit card, and a sense of the local PDA norms, and you’ll be set for a smooth, enjoyable stay.