Buzz
2. Dancing in public places
Dubai boasts numerous nightclubs and dance floors. These are private clubs with special licenses to operate. However, dancing in public places is considered a criminal offense, causing disturbance, and naturally, you'll be apprehended.
3. Using profanity or making obscene gestures in public
Uttering profanities in public, along with obscene gestures, can land you in trouble in Dubai. There have been several incidents involving Dubai tourists as well as residents when fingers were pointed in a heated argument or a traffic incident. Depending on the language or gestures used, you might even face deportation.
4. Having intimate relations with the opposite sex in public
Having an intimate relationship with someone of the opposite sex who isn't your spouse can lead to arrest. So if you're traveling with a partner or have a relationship in this emirate, ensure that you avoid overly intimate gestures in public. There have been instances where Dubai tourists were detained for kissing or even holding hands in public.
5. Sharing a hotel room or cohabiting without marriage
It would be unlawful for unmarried couples to share a hotel room or live together as spouses. However, many large international hotels do not check marital status, so be mindful of this law when you visit. Furthermore, refrain from jesting about not being married, as authorities may come to investigate immediately.
6. Accused of rape, or even a rape victim
In Dubai, you can be arrested and deported for the crime of rape. However, it is also in this emirate that even as a victim of rape, you may be arrested for allegedly engaging in an extramarital affair. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, urgently contact the Embassy and it's advisable to always have a lawyer by your side.
7. Drinking alcohol in public or in unauthorized places
When visiting Dubai, you are only allowed to drink alcohol at licensed restaurants or bars. Drinking alcohol in private rooms is also acceptable, but with the condition that the alcohol is purchased from a licensed place. If you carelessly become intoxicated in public, you will be arrested and may even face imprisonment.
8. Importing, selling, or using drugs
The use, importation, and sale of drugs are strictly prohibited in most countries, not just Dubai. You'll face imprisonment and possible deportation. The minimum sentence is 4 years for possessing even a small amount of drugs, with the maximum penalty for this offense being death.
9. Promoting a charity organization on media
Many foreigners find it hard to believe, but promoting a charity organization without government permission is a criminal offense in Dubai. Many have been deported after inadvertently posting information about charity organizations on social media.
10. Posting anything against the UAE
This is non-negotiable. You'll be arrested and face imprisonment if you post anything supporting Qatar or opposing the UAE on social media.
11. Public protests
Expressing dissent in public, or organizing and holding large gatherings to express dissatisfaction with the government, royal family's actions are all acts that violate the law in Dubai.
By Thuy Duong/Star
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourJanuary 29, 2019
