Public conduct and the law in the UAE

In the UAE, some things that are 'just bad manners' elsewhere are covered by law. Knowing the difference protects you and shows respect for the country.

Dress in public

• Dress modestly in public places such as malls: no see-through, very revealing or offensive-print clothing.
• Loose clothes covering shoulders and knees are a safe choice; swimwear is only for beaches, pools and water parks.
• Major Dubai malls ask visitors to cover shoulders and knees.

Affection in public

• The UAE government says holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public is not.
• Treat this as a firm rule, not a suggestion.

Photos and privacy (very important)

• Never photograph people without their permission.
• Under the UAE cybercrime law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, Article 44), using a phone or other device to photograph people, or to share or keep their images, without consent is an offence. Reported penalties include at least 6 months in prison and/or fines of AED 150,000 to 500,000.
• Photographing or sharing images of accident victims without permission is also an offence.
• Editing someone's photo to harm or mock them carries heavier penalties.
• Do not photograph government buildings, military sites or similar sensitive places.

Words and gestures

• Swearing, obscene gestures and showing disrespect to the UAE, its leaders or religion are forbidden.
• Insulting or swearing at someone online is an offence under the same cybercrime law, with fines of AED 250,000 to 500,000 reported by the UAE Public Prosecution.
• Think before you type: a heated group-chat message can have legal consequences.

Visiting a mosque

• At the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, women wear loose clothing to the ankles, sleeves to the wrist and cover all their hair; men cover their legs fully and avoid sleeveless or tight shirts.
• No affection, eating (water is allowed), sleeping or loud voices; phones on silent.
• Personal photos only in designated spots. Abayas are no longer lent free; arrive dressed appropriately.
• Follow the signs on removing shoes before prayer areas. Since 2026 there is an entry fee (AED 5 for Emirates ID holders, AED 10 for tourists).

Public transport

• The Dubai Metro has a Women and Children cabin. Men must not enter or walk through it; being there without entitlement carries a fine (AED 100).
• Eating or drinking where it is not allowed and putting feet on seats are also fined.
• Give priority seats to older people and people of determination, keep voices and phone volume low, and keep bags off seats.