Dubai is glamorous, safe, and ultra-modern—but it also has clear rules tourists must respect. This guide updates everything for 2026, correcting common myths and giving you practical, law-aware tips so you can relax and enjoy your trip.
Quick Overview: What’s Different in Dubai in 2026
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Weekend: The UAE standard weekend is Saturday–Sunday (not Friday–Saturday).
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Alcohol: Tourists can drink in licensed venues; carry and public intoxication remain illegal.
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Public behavior: PDA, offensive language, and filming people without consent can attract fines or charges.
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Transport: Eating/drinking is not allowed on the Metro/Tram; fines apply.
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Drones & meds: Drones need permits; some medicines require pre-approval.
Dress Code in Dubai: What’s Acceptable Where
Public places (malls, souks, airports)
Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees where possible, avoid sheer/see-through clothing. Swimwear isn’t for streets or malls.
Beaches, pools & resorts
Swimwear is fine at beaches, pools, waterparks, and resort clubs. Cover up when leaving these areas.
Mosques & religious sites
Women should cover arms, legs, and hair; men should wear long trousers. Many mosques lend abayas/scarves at the entrance.
Note: Gender expression and attire are sensitive topics; avoid provocative costumes or public cross-dressing. Always prioritize modesty and discretion.
Alcohol in Dubai: Where You Can Drink & Legal Age
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Legal drinking age is 21.
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Tourists can drink inside licensed hotels, bars, clubs, and restaurants.
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Do not drink or carry open containers in public places or be publicly intoxicated.
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Driving under the influence is a criminal offense with zero tolerance.
Ramadan Etiquette for Visitors
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Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight is restricted; many restaurants still serve indoors or screened areas—ask staff.
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Dress extra modestly; keep music low in public.
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Expect slightly adjusted hours for attractions and offices.
Public Decency & PDA: What’s Okay, What Isn’t
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Brief hand-holding is generally fine; kissing, hugging, or prolonged PDA in public is not.
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Avoid profane language, obscene gestures, or arguments in public spaces.
Photography & Drones: Places and People You Must Not Film
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Don’t photograph government buildings, military sites, airports, or strangers (especially women/children) without clear consent.
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Posting videos of incidents or others online can breach privacy/cyber laws.
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Drones require permits; non-compliance can result in confiscation and fines.
Medications, Drugs & Vaping: Zero-Tolerance & What Needs Approval
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UAE has zero tolerance for recreational drugs; possession (even traces) can lead to arrest and deportation.
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Some prescription/OTC medicines (with narcotic/psychotropic ingredients) require MOHAP pre-approval and a doctor’s prescription; carry meds in original packaging for ≤30 days supply.
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Vaping/smoking is banned in many indoor public places; respect designated areas. Age 21+.
Public Transport Rules & Fines
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Metro/Tram/Bus: No eating or drinking; fines commonly AED 100.
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Keep feet off seats; respect women-only carriages.
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Buy and tap Nol Card (contactless) for Metro/Tram/Bus/water bus.
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Taxis and ride-hailing (Careem/Uber) are widely available; tipping is optional but appreciated.
Driving, Salik Tolls & Road Etiquette
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International driving permit may be required (depends on license origin).
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Salik is a cashless toll; rental companies charge it automatically.
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Speed cameras are strict; never use phone in hand while driving.
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Don’t block traffic for photos; stop only in safe, legal spots.
Social Media & Cyber Laws
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Avoid defamation, insults, swearing, or sharing images of others without consent.
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Do not post videos of accidents, disputes, or governmental premises.
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Respect Wi-Fi laws; don’t use VPNs for illegal activities.
Money, Tipping & Payments
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Currency: AED (Dirham).
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Cards and Apple/Google Pay are widely accepted; ATMs are common.
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Tipping: 5–10% in casual places, 10–15% in upscale spots is appreciated but not mandatory.
Friday Prayers & Weekend in 2026
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Standard workweek: Monday–Friday (Friday often with a long midday prayer break).
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Official weekend: Saturday–Sunday. Government/most private sectors follow this.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
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Nov–Mar: Pleasant; peak season—book early.
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Apr–Oct: Hot to extremely hot; plan indoor attractions, hydrating, sun protection.
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Pack light, modest layers; carry a shawl/scarf for malls/mosques.
Family, Women & LGBTQ+ Travelers: Practical Safety Notes
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Dubai is very safe with low street crime.
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Families will find priority queues, mother-and-child rooms, and kids’ facilities almost everywhere.
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LGBTQ+ travelers should avoid PDA and keep a low profile in public, as laws and social norms are conservative.
Emergency Numbers, Health & Travel Insurance
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999 Police | 998 Ambulance | 997 Fire.
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Carry travel insurance covering medical emergency, cancellations, adventure parks, and driving.
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Pharmacies are widespread; hospitals/clinics are excellent.
Handy On-Arrival Checklist
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eSIM/SIM: Buy at airport or malls for cheap data.
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Nol Card: For all public transport.
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Taxi Apps: Careem/Uber—set pickup zones at airports/malls.
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Attractions: Pre-book Burj Khalifa, theme parks, desert safari in peak season.
Top Cultural Etiquette Tips
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Greet with a smile; handshakes only if offered first.
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Remove shoes when entering private homes.
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Avoid using your left hand to pass food.
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Gifts: sweets/dates are welcome; avoid alcohol unless you’re sure it’s appropriate.
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Be mindful of the adhan (call to prayer) and Friday prayers.
Why Apply With Dubai Visa Center
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Compliance-first guidance for a hassle-free trip.
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Fast processing and proactive document checks to avoid rejections.
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Dedicated support for itinerary, insurance, and visa type selection.
Pro Tip: Apply early (and choose the right visa length) to avoid last-minute changes, fines, or overstays.
CTA: Apply for Your Dubai Visa Online
Ready to travel smart and stress-free? Apply for your Dubai visa with Dubai Visa Center—verified process, expert support, and timely updates from start to finish.
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