Quick answer
Dubai is safe and welcoming, but it applies local laws that surprise some visitors. Alcohol is fine in licensed venues but there's zero tolerance for drink-driving; dress modestly in public places; keep public affection low-key; don't photograph people or government sites without care; and note that drug laws are extremely strict. Respect these and you'll have no trouble.
Alcohol
Alcohol is served in licensed hotels, bars and restaurants, and tourists can drink there without a personal licence. What is not tolerated is public drunkenness or drinking in unlicensed public places — and there is zero tolerance for drink-driving, with severe penalties. The minimum drinking age is 21.
Dress and public behaviour
- Dress is relaxed at hotels, pools and beaches, but cover shoulders and knees in malls, souks, government buildings and public areas.
- Public displays of affection beyond hand-holding can cause real trouble — keep it discreet.
- Rude gestures and swearing in public, including online and in a road-rage moment, are taken seriously.
Photography and privacy
Ask before photographing people, especially women and local families, and don't photograph government, military or police buildings. Posting photos or videos of others without consent can breach privacy laws.
Drugs and medicines
Drug laws are among the strictest anywhere, with serious penalties even for tiny amounts. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines that are ordinary at home are controlled here — if you take regular medication, carry it in its original packaging with a doctor's letter or prescription, and check whether it's restricted before you travel.
When a rule is one that changes or carries heavy penalties — visas, medicines, what's controlled — confirm it with an official UAE source before you rely on it, not a forum.
Ramadan and religious respect
During Ramadan, be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours; many restaurants adjust their hours, and the evenings come alive after the fast. It's a special time to visit, just a slightly different one.
Dubai is multicultural and easy-going day to day — these are courtesies, not obstacles, and locals appreciate visitors who make the effort.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists drink alcohol in Dubai?
Yes, in licensed hotels, bars and restaurants, without a personal licence. Public drunkenness and drinking in unlicensed public places are not allowed, and there is zero tolerance for drink-driving. The minimum age is 21.
What is the dress code in Dubai?
Relaxed at hotels, pools and beaches, but cover shoulders and knees in malls, souks, public areas and government buildings. Modest rather than formal.
Can I take photos freely in Dubai?
Ask before photographing people, and never photograph government, military or police sites. Posting images of others without consent can breach privacy laws.
Are medicines restricted in Dubai?
Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines that are ordinary elsewhere are controlled in the UAE. Carry medication in its original packaging with a prescription or doctor's letter, and check before you travel if unsure.
What should I know about visiting Dubai during Ramadan?
Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight, expect adjusted opening hours, and enjoy the lively evenings after the fast. It's a rewarding but slightly different time to visit.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 29 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
