Law and fines for tourists in Dubai

Law and fines for tourists in Dubai

Swearing on WhatsApp:

In the United Arab Emirates, swearing in public is one of the most serious offences. It is an insult to the person’s honour or modesty, according to Article 373 of the UAE Penal Code. The rule, however, does not end there! The law also applies to the medium of the internet. The UAE’s cyber rules prohibit the use of swear words on social media, WhatsApp, or any other online channel. The use of indecent emojis is also considered a social offence, punishable by a fine of up to AED 250,000, imprisonment, or deportation.

Eating/Drinking on Public Transport

In the UAE, it is illegal to eat or drink on public transportation. Whether you’re on a bus, subway, or even a pedestrian crossing, you won’t see someone eating while travelling. After all, you could face a fine of AED 100 if you do so.

Fundraising:

In the United Arab Emirates, raising donations for a good cause is a major issue. If you were in the nation during Ramadan, you could have heard about it. However, following multiple bogus incidents, the government has tightened fundraising restrictions. In the UAE, any type of gift must be approved by the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD). Failure to do so will be considered a violation of the UAE’s charity law, and may result in imprisonment, fines ranging from AED 250,000 to AED 500,000, and possibly deportation.

Dressing:

Isn’t there a lot that’s been said and heard about this? Women must be clothed modestly in the UAE, with their arms, legs, and heads covered. In public, men are not permitted to wear sleeveless clothing. Cross-dressing is expressly forbidden.

PDA:

In the United Arab Emirates, hugging, holding hands, kissing, or petting in public is illegal. During Ramadan, the law is even stricter. In recent years, there have been a number of arrests for inappropriate behaviour in public spaces, particularly parks, which is considered a significant violation of the country’s decency regulations.

Clicking Pictures:

In the UAE, you must be especially cautious when taking photographs. While the country is extremely welcoming to visitors, there are a few things to be aware of. The UAE is particularly protective of its citizens’ privacy and photographing them without their consent is a criminal offence. You could face a fine of up to AED 500,000 or possibly six months in prison, so be careful!

Furthermore, photographing military buildings, tribunals, or traffic incidents can cost you between AED 50,000 and AED 3 million. Furthermore, sharing such images on social media is a significant violation.

Spreading Rumours:

It may seem strange, but spreading rumours, particularly on social media, is the last thing you want to do in the UAE. The act is thought to have disrupted local social harmony as well as national peace. You could face a three-year prison sentence and a fine of up to AED 1 million if you commit these crimes.

Poppy Seeds:

Poppy seeds are a key source of opium and heroin in the UAE; hence they are prohibited. Possession of poppy seeds is punishable by imprisonment.

Join The Discussion

Compare listings

Compare