UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
Modern skyline, traditional values. Respect Islamic culture publicly.
Public displays of affection, alcohol outside licensed venues, and disrespect to religion are serious offences.
Strictly Prohibited
Public drunkenness, even between licensed venues — jail + deportation.
Possession of poppy seeds, CBD oil, or some prescription medicines (codeine) can mean arrest.
Public displays of affection — kissing, hugging — between any persons can be detained.
Insulting Islam, the royal family, or UAE — including online posts — is a serious crime.
Same-sex relationships are illegal — discretion is essential.
Photographing women, locals in traditional dress, or government/military buildings — fine or arrest.
Don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during Ramadan daylight (applies to non-Muslims too).
Don't wear shorts, sleeveless tops, or transparent clothing in malls, mosques, or government offices.
Don't use your left hand to greet, eat, or pass items — it's considered unclean.
Don't show the soles of your feet to others when sitting.
Laws to Know
Alcohol only at licensed venues (hotels, bars). Public intoxication is a jailable offence.
Swearing, rude gestures, or insulting religion online can lead to deportation/jail.
Possession of any drug — including some prescription meds — is severely punished.
Cohabitation laws have relaxed but be discreet.
Common Immigration & Visa Mistakes
Applying on multiple platforms simultaneously — duplicates flagged.
Carrying CBD oil, poppy seeds, or codeine-based meds — arrest at airport.
Posting critical comments about UAE online — fines + deportation.
Overstaying — daily fines accrue plus deportation.
Working on tourist visa — instant deportation + ban.
Missing passport 6-month validity — denied boarding from India.
Penalties for Foreigners
Overstay: AED 50/day + deportation.
Drug possession (any): minimum 4 years prison.
Public drunkenness: jail + AED 2,000+ fine + deportation.
Public displays of affection: AED 500-5,000 + deportation.
Insulting Islam/royal family online: AED 250,000+ fine + jail.
Bouncing a cheque: criminal case + jail + travel ban.
Dress & Conduct
Dress modestly in malls, mosques, and public areas — shoulders and knees covered.
Greet with 'As-salamu alaykum'; use right hand for handshakes and eating.
Don't show public affection beyond hand-holding (between spouses).
Don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during Ramadan daylight hours.
Photography
Ask permission before photographing locals.
Don't photograph local women, government buildings, or military areas.
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