Enjoy the best of Dubai on Your Travel
Dubai is a glittering gem of the Middle East, known for its ultramodern architecture, vibrant culture, and lavish lifestyle. Whether you’re there for the shopping, beach resorts, or to see the awe-inspiring Burj Khalifa, Dubai offers an endless array of activities and sights that keep travelers coming back. However, Dubai also has its own unique customs, laws, and expectations that differ from those in many other countries. If you’re heading to Dubai, being aware of a few “don’ts” can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a guide on three things to avoid on your visit to Dubai.
1. Avoid Public Displays of Affection
Dubai is a city where Western influences mix with traditional Emirati values, but certain cultural norms remain important, and public displays of affection (PDA) are definitely one of them. Holding hands, kissing, or any kind of overly affectionate behavior in public can lead to warnings or fines, as these actions are considered offensive and against the local customs. It’s easy to forget this if you’re used to more relaxed cultural norms, but respecting Dubai’s customs will help you avoid any awkward or problematic situations.
In Dubai, even married couples are expected to keep their affection discreet. Holding hands is generally acceptable, especially among married couples, but it’s best to avoid anything beyond that. While this might seem restrictive, it’s just a part of local life and respecting this rule shows your appreciation for the culture.
What You Can Do Instead: Save those affectionate gestures for private spaces, such as your hotel room or other areas where the local restrictions don’t apply. Showing respect for the culture by limiting PDA will ensure that you don’t run into any trouble with the law.
2. Avoid Dressing Inappropriately in Public Areas
While Dubai is a fashion-forward city that celebrates style, it also has a conservative side that visitors need to respect, especially in certain areas. Clothing expectations in Dubai can vary depending on where you are. In resorts and private beaches, swimwear is perfectly fine, but in malls, restaurants, and public areas, it’s important to dress more conservatively. Wearing overly revealing clothing, such as short skirts, sleeveless tops, and swimwear outside of designated areas, can be seen as disrespectful and might even attract negative attention or lead to fines.
This doesn’t mean you need to completely overhaul your wardrobe or avoid wearing what you feel comfortable in; it simply means dressing appropriately based on where you are in the city. Generally, it’s a good rule of thumb to cover your shoulders and knees in public areas, especially if you’re visiting cultural sites, religious places, or even popular shopping malls.
A Quick Tip for Dressing in Dubai: Lightweight fabrics that cover your arms and legs can be a lifesaver, as they not only help you stay cool in the sun but also keep you within the local dress code. Plus, donning a more modest style in Dubai doesn’t mean sacrificing style—you can find lots of beautiful, flowy outfits that are both chic and respectful.
3. Avoid Drinking Alcohol Outside Licensed Venues
While Dubai is one of the most open cities in the Middle East when it comes to alcohol, there are still strict laws in place about where and how you can consume it. Drinking in Dubai is only permitted in licensed establishments like hotels, bars, and certain restaurants. Openly drinking alcohol outside of these areas, or worse, being intoxicated in public, is a serious offense and can lead to hefty fines or even jail time.
Public drunkenness is taken very seriously in Dubai, so if you do enjoy a night out, be mindful of your behavior as you make your way back to your accommodation. Drinking responsibly and in designated areas is not only a way to stay on the right side of the law, but it also shows respect for Dubai’s cultural norms.
If you’re planning a night out, consider staying at a hotel with a licensed bar or nightclub, so you can have a few drinks without needing to travel far. Also, taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are widely available, so you can get back safely without worrying about any issues.
Pro Tip for Enjoying a Drink in Dubai: Most hotels that serve alcohol also offer happy hours and drink promotions, so you can enjoy a few cocktails without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a good deal, check out expat-friendly apps or websites for the best deals on drinks and food around the city.
Dubai’s combination of modern luxury and rich traditions makes it a unique place to visit, but it also comes with its own set of cultural expectations. By avoiding public displays of affection, dressing appropriately, and drinking responsibly, you’ll be able to enjoy everything Dubai has to offer while respecting the local customs and laws. Plus, following these simple guidelines will help ensure that you have a smooth, enjoyable trip without any unnecessary stress or surprises. Happy travels, and enjoy your time in the dazzling city of Duba