Dubai is known for its glitz and glamour, with holidaymakers flocking to enjoy its five-star hotels, posh restaurants and infinity pools.
But there is a darker side – ultra-strict laws.
Something 18-year-old Londoner Marcus Fakana discovered when he was jailed for one year for a consensual sexual relationship with a 17-year-old fellow tourist.
Still fancy visiting Dubai? Here are rules tourists must follow in the UAE city – or face jail time.
Photography
The British government explained on his UAE travel advice page that it is illegal to take pictures of some government buildings and military installations, as well as to photograph people without their permission in the UAE.
Simon Hood, Executive Director at shipping company John Mason Internationaltells MailOnline: ‘Over there, taking a quick photo of someone without their permission is a serious no-go and can land you in trouble – even if it’s just in the background. It’s not just about courtesy – it’s the law.’
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Dubai is known for its glitz and glamor with holidaymakers flocking to enjoy its five-star hotels, posh restaurants and infinity pools. But there is a darker side – ultra-strict laws
Swimwear must only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools in Dubai
Simon explains: ‘There’s a big problem with VPNs. In the UK, many people use it to access restricted sites or simply for security, but in Dubai it is illegal to use a VPN to bypass blocks.
“Many travelers forget they have these running on their devices and inadvertently find themselves breaking the law.”
Social media
The British government explained: ‘It is illegal to post material, including videos and photographs, online that is critical of the government, companies or individuals, or related to incidents in the UAE.’
Think you can get away with it? Think again. An Irishman, for example, faces several years’ in a Dubai prison send a ninja emoji to an acquaintance who allegedly stole his belongings.
Simon adds: ‘Sharing anything that could be considered defamatory, offensive or invasive – such as posting pictures of strangers or sharing videos of an accident – is not only frowned upon but can also lead to hefty fines or worse.’
Poppy seed
Poppy seeds, even in bakery products, are on the UAE’s list of ‘controlled substances’, warns the US government. This is because they can become infected with opiates.
Some medications – including codeine
‘Medication can be difficult,’ explains Simon, adding: ‘Common UK medicines, such as codeine, are controlled substances. If you wear them without a prescription or proper documentation, you could find yourself in hot water.’
Poppy seeds, even in bakery products, are on the UAE’s list of ‘controlled substances’
Sexual relations
While a consensual relationship outside of marriage, including extramarital affairs, between a man and woman over the age of 18 is generally legal in Dubai, the British government warns that there are exceptions. In an extramarital relationship, if the other person’s spouse or parent files a complaint, both people involved in the relationship can face a prison sentence of six months or more.
If a person of 18 has a relationship with someone 17 or younger, they will be prosecuted for having a sexual relationship with a minor. If both people are under 18, they will be prosecuted, but punishment is unlikely to involve jail time.
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the UAE and same-sex marriage is not recognized.
Show love in public
Public displays of affection, such as kissing, are frowned upon. Tourists could be arrested for doing so, the British government warns.
Prohibited items
Simon explains: ‘Items such as drones, e-cigarettes or hoverboards often require special permits. And some things you wouldn’t think twice about at home – like books with themes of magic or witchcraft (Harry Potter comes to mind) – can attract extra attention at customs.
It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place in the UAE
‘I remember one instance where a customer insisted on packing their own shipment and used British tabloids to wrap everything. Customs flagged the shipment because of the provocative images and headlines on the newspaper, which delayed everything by weeks and led to extra costs.’
Curse
The UK government explains: ‘It is illegal to swear and make rude gestures, including online, as these are considered indecent acts. You could be jailed or deported.’
Alcohol
It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place in the UAE, the British government warns.
Tourists can buy and drink alcohol at licensed hotels, restaurants and bars, but a license is required to consume alcohol in a private residence.
Illegal drugs
The UK government warns that there is ‘zero tolerance’ for drug-related offenses in the UAE.
Possession of a small amount of illegal drugs can lead to a three-month prison sentence, while a drug-trafficking offense can lead to the death penalty.
CBD products
‘Herbal highs’ and products containing cannabidiol (CBD) are illegal in the UAE. Even skin care products or e-cigarettes that contain CBD oil can land someone with criminal charges, the British government explains.
Manage label
‘Offensive gestures and bad language directed at other drivers can lead to fines, imprisonment and possibly deportation,’ warns the British government.
Cross-dressing
The British government explains that cross-dressing is illegal in the UAE. It adds that ‘women should cover shoulders and knees, and underwear should not be visible’ – and swimwear should only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools.
Ramadan rules
World Nomads Insurance explains: ‘During the holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking are prohibited between sunrise and sunset, and non-Muslims are expected to follow this principle in public as well.’
Simon adds: ‘Even at this time of year it is illegal to eat and drink on public transport.’
