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

Weekend: The UAE standard weekend is Saturday–Sunday (not Friday–Saturday).
Alcohol: Tourists can drink in licensed venues; carry and public intoxication remain illegal.
Public behavior: PDA, offensive language, and filming people without consent can attract fines or charges.
Transport: Eating/drinking is not allowed on the Metro/Tram; fines apply.
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

Legal drinking age is 21.
Tourists can drink inside licensed hotels, bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Do not drink or carry open containers in public places or be publicly intoxicated.
Driving under the influence is a criminal offense with zero tolerance.

Ramadan Etiquette for Visitors

Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight is restricted; many restaurants still serve indoors or screened areas—ask staff.
Dress extra modestly; keep music low in public.
Expect slightly adjusted hours for attractions and offices.

Public Decency & PDA: What’s Okay, What Isn’t

Brief hand-holding is generally fine; kissing, hugging, or prolonged PDA in public is not.
Avoid profane language, obscene gestures, or arguments in public spaces.

Photography & Drones: Places and People You Must Not Film

Don’t photograph government buildings, military sites, airports, or strangers (especially women/children) without clear consent.
Posting videos of incidents or others online can breach privacy/cyber laws.
Drones require permits; non-compliance can result in confiscation and fines.

Medications, Drugs & Vaping: Zero-Tolerance & What Needs Approval

UAE has zero tolerance for recreational drugs; possession (even traces) can lead to arrest and deportation.
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.
Vaping/smoking is banned in many indoor public places; respect designated areas. Age 21+.

Public Transport Rules & Fines

Metro/Tram/Bus: No eating or drinking; fines commonly AED 100.
Keep feet off seats; respect women-only carriages.
Buy and tap Nol Card (contactless) for Metro/Tram/Bus/water bus.
Taxis and ride-hailing (Careem/Uber) are widely available; tipping is optional but appreciated.

Driving, Salik Tolls & Road Etiquette

International driving permit may be required (depends on license origin).
Salik is a cashless toll; rental companies charge it automatically.
Speed cameras are strict; never use phone in hand while driving.
Don’t block traffic for photos; stop only in safe, legal spots.

Social Media & Cyber Laws

Avoid defamation, insults, swearing, or sharing images of others without consent.
Do not post videos of accidents, disputes, or governmental premises.
Respect Wi-Fi laws; don’t use VPNs for illegal activities.

Money, Tipping & Payments

Currency: AED (Dirham).
Cards and Apple/Google Pay are widely accepted; ATMs are common.
Tipping: 5–10% in casual places, 10–15% in upscale spots is appreciated but not mandatory.

Friday Prayers & Weekend in 2026

Standard workweek: Monday–Friday (Friday often with a long midday prayer break).
Official weekend: Saturday–Sunday. Government/most private sectors follow this.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Nov–Mar: Pleasant; peak season—book early.
Apr–Oct: Hot to extremely hot; plan indoor attractions, hydrating, sun protection.
Pack light, modest layers; carry a shawl/scarf for malls/mosques.

Family, Women & LGBTQ+ Travelers: Practical Safety Notes

Dubai is very safe with low street crime.
Families will find priority queues, mother-and-child rooms, and kids’ facilities almost everywhere.
LGBTQ+ travelers should avoid PDA and keep a low profile in public, as laws and social norms are conservative.

Emergency Numbers, Health & Travel Insurance

999 Police | 998 Ambulance | 997 Fire.
Carry travel insurance covering medical emergency, cancellations, adventure parks, and driving.
Pharmacies are widespread; hospitals/clinics are excellent.

Handy On-Arrival Checklist

eSIM/SIM: Buy at airport or malls for cheap data.
Nol Card: For all public transport.
Taxi Apps: Careem/Uber—set pickup zones at airports/malls.
Attractions: Pre-book Burj Khalifa, theme parks, desert safari in peak season.

Top Cultural Etiquette Tips

Greet with a smile; handshakes only if offered first.
Remove shoes when entering private homes.
Avoid using your left hand to pass food.
Gifts: sweets/dates are welcome; avoid alcohol unless you’re sure it’s appropriate.
Be mindful of the adhan (call to prayer) and Friday prayers.

Why Apply With Dubai Visa Center

Compliance-first guidance for a hassle-free trip.
Fast processing and proactive document checks to avoid rejections.
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.