The UAE is a popular tourist destination, welcoming millions of visitors each year. However, before planning your trip, it is important to familiarize yourself with the laws of the country in detail, as the rules in the Emirates are quite strict, and some prohibitions may even surprise travelers. Find out what rules you should follow to avoid fines and penalties, and what luggage requirements Dubai has introduced in 2025

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The United Arab Emirates is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The country attracts travelers with its luxurious lifestyle, breathtaking views and perfect weather all year round. However, the UAE has some pretty strict laws that you should be aware of before planning your trip, as violating these requirements can lead to fines, deportation or even imprisonment.

To ensure that your vacation goes smoothly, read the following rules and follow them in Dubai and the UAE.

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Rules and restrictions in Dubai that you need to know about to avoid fines

1. Rules for importing prescription drugs.

Importing medications into the UAE requires careful preparation, as the country has strict rules regarding controlled and semi-controlled substances, in particular, some medications require prior permission from the UAE authorities to be imported.

In general, you can bring a three-month supply of medication into the country, but even if you have a prescription and these medications are legal in your country, the substances may be prohibited in the UAE.

Crossing the border without the proper documents can lead to prosecution.

2. Drinking and Possessing Alcohol.

Drinking alcohol in Dubai is only allowed in licensed venues such as hotels, bars and restaurants. It is also important to understand that being drunk in public is illegal and can lead to arrest.

Tourists are also entitled to apply for a temporary liquor license for personal consumption.

Important! Drinking and possessing alcohol is completely prohibited in Sharjah.

3. Swearing and Offensive Gestures.

Swearing, rude gestures, offensive language online and any other form of public profanity is a criminal offense in the UAE. It can lead to deportation or even imprisonment.

4. Children are not allowed to stay in hotels without an adult.

Travelers under the age of 18 are not allowed to stay in Dubai hotels alone. In order to check in and stay legally, children must be accompanied by an adult, such as a parent or guardian.

5. Pedestrian Traffic Violations.

Walking on the roads in Dubai is prohibited. Always use designated pedestrian crossings and zebra crossings to cross the road. Crossing the road outside of designated pedestrian crossings is illegal and may result in fines.

6. Travelers must also follow the rules during Ramadan.

During Ramadan, authorities strictly prohibit eating, drinking, smoking, or playing loud music in public places during daylight hours.

Violating these rules may result in fines or legal action.

7. Rules for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Same-sex relationships are prohibited in the UAE, as are public displays of affection. Travelers should exercise caution to avoid legal issues.

8. Public displays of affection.

The Dubai government discourages public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging. Such behavior may offend local residents and lead to legal consequences.

9. Criticism in the media.

Publishing negative messages about the government, businesses, or residents of the UAE is against local law. The authorities consider such actions a criminal offense that can result in fines or imprisonment. This rule also applies to publications on the Internet.

10. Sexual relations outside of marriage.

Unmarried couples with children in the UAE may face legal and health insurance problems, as sexual relations outside of marriage are prohibited in the country.

11. Financial Crimes and Unpaid Bills.

Non-payment of bills, including non-payment of hotel, restaurant or rent, is a criminal offence in Dubai. These are very serious offences and offenders may even be denied bail pending trial.

12. Importing and carrying prohibited items.

Tourists should be sure to check the UAE customs regulations before packing as these items can result in fines, confiscation or even imprisonment. These include poppy seeds, which are often found in baked goods, certain skin care products, e-cigarettes, etc.

Drug offences carry severe penalties, including the death penalty.

13. Charity.

It is illegal in Dubai to conduct charitable activities, including online fundraising, without prior government permission. It is important to ensure that you comply with all UAE laws before engaging in any donation-related activity.

14. Photography and Media Regulations.

Taking photographs of people without their consent is prohibited. Taking photographs of government and military buildings in general can result in arrest.

Journalists and media personnel must obtain special permits before filming or publishing content.

15. Dress Code.

A dress code should be observed in public places: women must cover their shoulders and knees. Cross-dressing is illegal.

16. Checking someone else’s phone.

Checking someone else’s phone without their permission is a violation of privacy laws in Dubai and is a criminal offense that can result in fines or imprisonment.

17. Eating and drinking on public transport.

In Dubai, it is strictly forbidden for passengers to eat and drink on public transport. Violators face a fine of AED 100 (USD 28) for violating cleanliness regulations.

18. Traffic violations and aggressive behavior on the road.

Any offensive hand gestures while driving can lead to imprisonment or deportation.

Dubai Police can impound vehicles for serious traffic violations, and fines can reach AED 50,000 (USD 13,600).

Dubai Luggage Regulations 2025

Dubai has recently introduced stricter rules on what can and cannot be carried into the country, both in hand luggage and checked luggage.

1. Prohibited and Restricted Items

- Drugs: Cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and poppy seeds are illegal.

- Medications containing controlled substances. Dubai has a list of prohibited drugs that travelers cannot carry unless they have official approval. Some of them include: Betamethodol, Cannabis, Codoxime, Fentanyl, Methadone, Opium, Oxycodone

- Food and Natural Products: Leaves of certain herbs, as well as homemade or non-vegetarian food products are prohibited.

- Cultural Artifacts and Media: Printed materials, books, oil paintings, stone sculptures, and photographs may be restricted depending on the content.

- Animal products: ivory, rhinoceros horns, etc.

- Other prohibited items: gambling equipment, triple-layer fishing nets and items from boycotted countries, counterfeit currency, etc.

2. Items requiring approval

Some items are permitted but require prior approval or appropriate documentation to be imported.

- Prescription and over-the-counter medications that are not on the prohibited list can be imported with the appropriate documentation.

- Electronics: Personal devices such as e-cigarettes, e-hookahs and wireless transmission devices require prior approval.

- Alcohol: Limited quantities are permitted, but travelers must comply with Dubai’s alcohol regulations.

- Cosmetics and personal care items: Most are permitted but may need to be declared depending on the quantity.

Always check the Dubai Customs website or your airline for the latest list before flying.

How to avoid problems when traveling in Dubai?

To ensure a comfortable stay in Dubai, keep these tips in mind:

- Before packing, carefully check the latest regulations from Dubai Customs and your airline. Regulations can change, so it’s important to stay up to date.

- Check your documentation: If you need to travel with restricted medications, make sure you have a prescription or a medical note from your doctor.

- Declare items: When in doubt, declare your belongings to customs. Honesty is always the best policy.

- Avoid homemade food, opt for commercially packaged and sealed items.

- Follow Dubai etiquette and respect local laws.

Follow these updated rules to avoid potential fines, delays, or even legal complications when traveling to Dubai.

Reminder! The United Arab Emirates is expanding its Golden Visa program and attracting even more talented professionals to the states. In particular, the other day they announced the launch of the Golden Visa for content creators. We have already told you what the Golden Visa for influencers in the UAE is, as well as who and how can get a permit.

If you find yourself in a difficult situation abroad, seek advice from a migration lawyer. We help to quickly resolve any issues outside your country of origin.

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