Special Features
Customs and Norms for Public Behaviour
If you’re a Westerner visiting Dubai, an Arab city state with traditional Islamic customs and laws, you may need to watch your public behavior. Even though Dubai is a modern bustling metropolis, it is highly recommended that all foreigners practice the below suggested moral codes of behaviour.Dress code: You can wear a bikini/swimming suit (or swimming trunks for men) on the beach, but it is an arrestable offense to go topless or wear a thong. Wearing swimsuits away from the beach can also get you arrested under public decency laws.
Non Muslim women are not required to cover their heads in public, but if you enter a mosque it will be required.
Women are usually advised not to wear short skirts and to keep their shoulders covered. There are signs about this in some malls.
Alcohol - Consumption is only allowed in licensed restaurants, pubs, clubs, private venues, and at home (for residents who have acquired an alcohol license). It is an offense to carry alcohol in your car if you do not hold the special alcohol license. There’s also a zero tolerance policy on drinking and driving.
Drugs - Consuming or carrying narcotics can result in a standard four-year imprisonment sentence and deportation. Buying or selling narcotics can result in a sentence of life imprisonment.
Dancing - Only allowed in your home, hotel, or a licensed nightclub. Public dancing is considered indecent.
Public affection - Holding hands is OK, but hugging and kissing may violate the public decency laws (see case of British couple jailed).
Sexual relationships - Sex outside of marriage is illegal, irrespective of any relationship you may have with your partner at home.
