Dubai is considered to be one of the most modern cities in the world, It’s also considered to be the most tolerant of all the Emirates. While this is definitely true, It’s best to remember that the city is still under the royal family’s rule and it underlyingly still follows Islamic laws. So there are some restrictions and general practices that you will still need to be aware of and respect. Let’s take a look at what they are and what you should be aware of so, as to not get into any trouble or accidentally offend anyone while you’re there.1. Do not bring in any drugs or prohibited Items into the country: While this might sound pretty straight forward and kinda obvious there is more substance to this. The UAE has very strict drug enforcement laws and this includes prescription drugs. So if you happen to require, say anxiety medicine. Check the laws to see if the drug is allowed and even if it is, carry the prescription for the same at all times. If you not you might end up in jail for drug trafficking. Recreational drugs are obviously a big no-no. However, it is to be noted that, while in a lot of countries only physical possession might be illegal and you can’t be incarcerated after consumption. In Dubai, if you are caught with drugs in your bloodstream you are royally screwed (see what I did there?). A classic example of extreme drug enforcement is a case where a British national was jailed for possession of 0.003g of Cannabis on his shoe sole, which is tinier than a grain of sugar. Now he was later released but it is wise to remember that the man spent many days in jail over something as insignificant as that.
2. Don’t use your left hand to greet, hand over objects or generally interact with people in any way:While this might not land you in jail. This might form a bad impression among those around you. The left hand in both Islamic and Indian cultures is considered to be unclean because it was used to clean up ones rear after you’re done. Even though things have changed and most of us don’t use our hands for the deed anymore. The emotion has stuck around and it is considered rude and filthy to use your left hand to greet, eat or pass things and yes, It probably sucks to be a leftie in Dubai.3. Do not cuss in public:Now I know this is hard, at least for me personally it is. For a lot us cussing might be an integral part of who we are, a form of expression even. In Dubai though, cussing out in public isn’t tolerated and might land you behind bars. So be mindful of what you say in public and don’t go about muttering obscenities at people.4. Do not criticize the Royal family, the religion and generally avoid voicing opinions publicly on controversial matters:Now we might be from a country that tolerates free speech and open criticism but the same can’t be said for many other parts of the world. In Dubai, it’s best not to criticize the royal family, government or the religion if you are looking to stay out of trouble. If not guess what will happen? If you thought jail time, you guessed it right.5. Do not eat or drink in public during Ramadan:Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims around the world and during these times all Muslims apart from children and pregnant women observe a fast from sunrise to sunset and abstain from all sinful practices. During this time eating or drinking in public is not tolerated and will incur a heavy fine or jail time depending on the severity of the offense. Restaurants and bar establishments are generally closed during this time and only a few restaurants might operate with their blinds closed. There is no restriction to eat at home or at your hotel, eating out in public is not tolerated though.6. No PDA:Public displays of affection such as kissing and hugging are also frowned upon and punishable in Dubai. Now a reasonable gesture such as holding hands is not considered to be too much of a problem but its best not to be all lovey-dovey in public to avoid getting any unnecessary attention.7. Dress Modestly:Similar to the no PDA rule, In Dubai dressing up in revealing clothes is something you don’t want to do. It’s best to wear modest clothing that covers the knees, arms and shoulders. Clothing that doesn’t meet those guidelines will be considered provocative and get in you trouble. It’s also best to clothing that follows these guidelines generally due to the desert heat so, this is not exactly a deal-breaker but don’t think running around short shorts is okay. 8. Being Queer:Dubai doesn’t tolerate LGBTQ or queer culture and so if you are someone who identifies as anything other than a straight man or woman, just keep quiet about it. Be careful of who you speak about it too as well and don’t make it seem apparent. This will get you in a load of trouble very quickly, a lot of tourists have been jailed for just cross-dressing…..9. Do not Dance in public:Now, this might seem unreasonable but yeah, dancing in public is considered to be provocative so make sure that you are either in a registered dance club or in private place before you get your mojo on. Listening to music loudly is also something that is to be avoided and is a punishable offense.
10. Be Careful with Alcohol: You can drink alcohol in Dubai as long you are not a Muslim and off course, you need to be of legal drinking age. However, drinking in public or being in public under the influence of alcohol is punishable. If you want to purchase alcohol you also need an alcohol permit and the permit needs to be on you at all times. Driving under the influence isn’t tolerated at all and will lead to heavy fines and jail time. So if you were thinking you are okay just hanging around Dubai, having beers at stops, you’re not. For details about Dubai Packages please log on to Pickyourtrail.
