Being a home of many captivating engineering marvels, classy malls and splendid attractions, many people are left in awe once they see the country’s magnificence. With a smartphone in their hand, it’s natural they just want to click away to fill their social media with the photos of these spectacular structures.
While the country is abundant with marvelous landmarks and beautiful places that compel everyone to take pictures of, there are some strict laws that prevail in the emirate regarding photography. As not everyone is aware of these photography laws, many people land themselves in trouble after violating them. Having said that, there are best law firms in Dubai that can help resolve the matter if the situation gets out of control. However, it’s always safest to avoid the problem on your own in the first place.
So, whether you are a resident or a tourist, it’s pertinent to know these rules regarding photography before you decide to take a plunge.
Ensure to Take Permission First to Film/Photoshoot
It’s very important to get permission before organizing a film or photo shoot in the UAE. No matter if you are photographing Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Dubai Mall or any other place in the emirate, take permission from the authorities first. If they permit you, only then you can hold a shoot in that particular area.
Moreover, you cannot do photography at airports without obtaining a permit from the authorities. The emirate wants to ensure the safety of passengers as well as employees working in the Civil Aviation Authority. Hence, you need to take permission before clicking a picture.
Capturing Footage of Semi-Government, Government Buildings and Military Sites Is Not Allowed
There are many semi-government and government buildings in the UAE that are worthy of being captured in your cameras. However, before you make this move, remember that taking pictures of these buildings is an offense unless you have a special permit. The same goes for military sites as well.
Don’t Click Pictures of Others Without Their Consent
If you take a picture of others that violate their privacy, then it’s a sheer offense. There are laws that protect the privacy of individuals such as Article 378 of UAE Penal Code (Federal Law 3 of 1987) and Article 21 of UAE Cyber Crime Law.
It is an offense to take pictures of females and families in the UAE in public places. In doing so, the authorities would confiscate your camera or even destroy it. You may have to pay a fine or face imprisonment. And you may find yourself discussing the matter with legal consultants in Dubai.
Never Distribute Pictures Without Permission
Sharing pictures of others without their permission is a serious crime in the emirate. Article 43 of the UAE Copyright Law deals with this matter. As per the law, a photographer has no right to exhibit or publish the photos without the authorization of the person. The violation of this rule can cause a fine or jail from six-months to a one-year.
An exception to This Rule
You may share the picture:
- Of a Public event
- Of a celebrity or known personality
- If you have permission letter by the authorities
To sum up, the emirate has incorporated all these photography rules to protect and enhance the privacy and safety of individuals. So, make sure you are following them when clicking photographs of the wonderful marvels the UAE boasts of.
