The Traveling Taylors

Dubai Is Safe—But Not Always Understood

Dubai is flashy, futuristic, and famously rule-bound—which makes it a magnet for myths. We’ve heard it all: “You’ll get arrested for kissing!” “Women can’t go out alone!” “You can’t wear shorts!” And while Dubai does have strict laws, most of the fear is overblown—or flat-out false.

Here’s a clear, honest breakdown of what’s actually true, what’s misunderstood, and what tourists really need to know when it comes to Dubai safety in 2025.

Myth #1: “You Can Get Arrested for Holding Hands”

Mostly False
Light hand-holding between married couples is allowed—and rarely enforced otherwise unless it’s excessive or during religious times like Ramadan.

✅ Safe: Holding hands, quick hugs (in private places), wedding rings
🚫 Not Safe: Making out in public, full-on PDA

Myth #2: “Dubai Isn’t Safe for Solo Female Travelers”

False
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world for women. Street harassment is rare, and solo female travel is common—even at night.

Just Stay Smart By:

• Dressing modestly in public areas
• Using women-only Metro cars or Careem rides
• Avoiding isolated alleyways or walking late in beach zones alone

Myth #3: “You Can’t Wear Shorts in Dubai”

False with Context
Yes, you can wear shorts—just not everywhere. In malls, resorts, beaches, and tourist areas, shorts and sleeveless tops are fine.

🚫 Avoid short-shorts or crop tops in mosques, old markets, or government buildings.
✅ Pack a shawl or cover-up for flexibility.

Myth #4: “You Can’t Drink Alcohol in Dubai”

False (but controlled)
Alcohol is legal for tourists—but only in licensed venues like hotel bars, restaurants, or beach clubs. Public drunkenness is a no-go.

✅ Yes: Hotel bars, brunches, lounges
🚫 No: Drinking in public, walking tipsy in the street, carrying open containers

Myth #5: “You Can Be Jailed for Swearing or Ranting Online”

True (Mostly)
Insulting someone (even online), swearing in texts, or using rude gestures can technically be prosecuted under UAE laws—especially if someone reports it.

Stay Safe By:

• Keeping digital rants off social platforms while in the UAE
• Avoiding drama in public or with service workers
• Treating social media like it’s under review (because it might be)

Myth #6: “Dubai Is in a Dangerous Region—So It Must Be Unsafe”

False (With Context)
While tensions may rise in parts of the Middle East, Dubai remains politically stable, highly secure, and shielded by strong national defense.

🚨 In 2025: Some flights are rerouted due to regional airspace closures—but Dubai itself is calm and fully operational.

Myth #7: “You Can’t Be LGBTQ+ in Dubai”

Complicated, But True-ish
Public expressions of LGBTQ+ identity or affection are not allowed and could risk arrest. However, private behavior is largely not policed, and many LGBTQ+ travelers visit safely while staying low-key.

Key Tip: Focus on respectful discretion. Avoid public displays of affection regardless of orientation.

Myth #8: “You Can’t Take Photos in Dubai”

False (With Important Limits)
Photography is welcomed at major attractions, hotels, and beaches. Just avoid:

🚫 Police, military buildings, government facilities
🚫 Locals—especially women—without permission
🚫 Security signage that prohibits cameras

Myth #9: “You Have to Watch Every Single Word You Say”

Partially True
Dubai has zero tolerance for hate speech, slurs, or disrespect toward religion or royalty. Be especially cautious during Ramadan and in public places.

But daily conversations, jokes, and friendly sarcasm? You’ll be fine.

Myth #10: “You Need to Be on Edge All the Time”

False
Dubai is built for tourism. Hotels, guides, drivers, and public officials are used to visitors—and happy to help. You just need respect + awareness, not paranoia.

Final Thoughts: Dubai Safety = Smart Respect

Dubai is one of the safest, cleanest, and most advanced cities you’ll visit. Most “scary” rules are just about cultural respect and legal boundaries—no different than knowing not to jaywalk in Tokyo or be loud on a train in Switzerland.

Get familiar with what actually matters, and you’ll enjoy Dubai freely—and confidently.