Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially in public places like malls, mosques, or government buildings. Modesty is highly valued.
Hugging, kissing, or holding hands in public (except for married couples) can offend locals and is sometimes punishable.
During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited, even for non-Muslims.
Avoid rude hand gestures, swearing, or making offensive remarks, as these are taken seriously and can lead to fines or jail.
Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs, including certain medications. Research allowed prescriptions before traveling.
Alcohol consumption is restricted to licensed venues, and being intoxicated in public is illegal.
Taking photos of people (especially women) without their consent or photographing government or military buildings can lead to legal trouble.
Avoid bringing items such as e-cigarettes (in some cases), pork products, or pornographic materials into the UAE.
Throwing garbage in public areas can result in hefty fines.
Always cross roads at designated pedestrian crossings; jaywalking is strictly penalized.
Public disputes or aggressive behavior can attract legal consequences.
While not mandatory, tipping (10-15%) is customary for good service in restaurants, taxis, and hotels.
The workweek in Dubai is Monday to Friday, with weekends on Saturday and Sunday. Plan activities and business accordingly.
Always use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem for safe and regulated rides.
Dubai can be extremely hot. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours in the summer.