The Traveling Taylors

The City Is Glamorous—But the Rules Are Serious

Dubai is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on earth—where ancient culture meets next-level luxury. But it also has very specific laws and customs, many of which are unfamiliar to first-time visitors. And let’s be honest: it’s easy to mess up if you don’t know what to expect.

Whether you’re staying a weekend or a month, here are 21 do’s and don’ts in Dubai that every tourist should know before stepping off the plane.

✅ DO: Dress Modestly in Public Spaces

While swimwear is fine at the beach or pool, cover your shoulders and knees in malls, mosques, and traditional areas.
Pro Tip: Always carry a lightweight scarf or shawl for quick coverage.

❌ DON’T: Show PDA (Public Displays of Affection)

Holding hands is okay for married couples, but kissing or hugging in public—especially in conservative areas—can lead to fines or police involvement.

✅ DO: Use Your Right Hand for Greeting and Eating

In Emirati culture, the right hand is used for giving, receiving, and eating. The left is considered impolite.

❌ DON’T: Swear or Use Offensive Gestures

Even online! Cursing, rude hand signals, or disrespectful language (including in texts or social media) can result in legal trouble.

✅ DO: Ask Before Taking Photos of People

Especially women and families. It’s considered intrusive to take photos without permission—and may even be illegal in certain contexts.

❌ DON’T: Photograph Government Buildings or Airports

Avoid snapping pics of police stations, military areas, and even immigration checkpoints. These are off-limits and taken seriously.

✅ DO: Respect Local Customs During Ramadan

Don’t eat, drink, or chew gum in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants stay open but use curtains to shield dining areas.

❌ DON’T: Bring Vapes, Pornography, or Certain Meds

Dubai has strict import laws. Prescription medications must be declared (especially controlled substances), and vaping devices may be confiscated.

✅ DO: Take Off Your Shoes When Entering Mosques or Homes

It’s a sign of respect and hygiene. You’ll often see a rack of shoes at the entrance.

❌ DON’T: Get Drunk in Public

Alcohol is legal in licensed venues, but public intoxication is not. Always take a taxi or rideshare after drinking.

✅ DO: Ride the Metro (and Respect the Rules)

The Dubai Metro is efficient and clean. Make sure you don’t eat, chew gum, or sit in women-only cars if you’re male.

❌ DON’T: Cross the Street Wherever You Want

Jaywalking is illegal and strictly enforced. Use pedestrian crossings—there are cameras everywhere.

✅ DO: Bargain in the Souks

Haggling is part of the experience in Dubai’s traditional markets. Smile, be polite, and enjoy the back-and-forth.

❌ DON’T: Assume Everyone Speaks English Fluently

Most people do, but slow down your speech and be patient—especially with workers from diverse cultural backgrounds.

✅ DO: Tip Service Workers When Appropriate

It’s not required, but tipping 10–15% is appreciated in restaurants and for hotel porters or taxi drivers.

❌ DON’T: Eat or Drink on Public Transport

This includes water. It’s a fineable offense and one of the most commonly missed rules by tourists.

✅ DO: Visit a Mosque (Respectfully)

Places like Jumeirah Mosque offer guided tours to non-Muslims. Wear modest clothes—abayas and headscarves are often provided.

❌ DON’T: Rely Only on Taxis

Use the Metro, water taxis, and Careem (the UAE’s version of Uber) to save time and money.

✅ DO: Be Punctual for Tours and Reservations

Time is respected in Dubai. Arriving late, especially for desert safaris or dinner bookings, may mean you miss out.

❌ DON’T: Forget It’s a Multicultural City—But Still Conservative

You’ll see bikinis, Lamborghinis, and designer everything—but also traditional dress and strict social norms. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Respect = Reward in Dubai

Dubai welcomes millions of tourists every year—but it expects you to follow the rules. And honestly? When you do, the city gives you an unforgettable experience in return.