New or Updated Dubai Laws & Rules Tourists Must Know - Trip Advisor & Booking
New or Updated Dubai Laws & Rules Tourists Must Know - Trip Advisor & Booking
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00:00Dubai has a reputation for its strict and unforgiving laws, with capital punishment
00:05being a legal penalty in some cases.
00:09However, having visited Dubai, I discovered that things are more relaxed than you might
00:14think.
00:16But you still need to be careful.
00:18It's quite easy to accidentally break the rules and get fined, especially if you're
00:23unaware of the most recent legal changes.
00:27So here are 5 new, updated, or otherwise highly important laws and rules that tourists
00:33must be aware of before entering Dubai.
00:371.
00:38Censorship Laws Dubai has strict internet censorship laws.
00:43Services like Skype and WhatsApp may be restricted or monitored.
00:47I was unable to make calls via WhatsApp when I visited, but if I remember correctly, I
00:52was able to send text messages through the app.
00:56The best solution here is to use permitted apps or local SIM cards with approved services.
01:03I was given one for free when I arrived at Dubai's airport.
01:07Also, contrary to many reports, it is possible to access dating apps like Tinder and Bumble
01:13whilst in Dubai.
01:15However, many of the profiles are fake and run by scammers, so be careful.
01:212.
01:23Prescription Medication Laws Dubai is known for its strict zero-tolerance
01:28approach to illegal drugs.
01:30However, it's important to know that some medications available on prescription in the
01:35West are classified as controlled substances in the UAE.
01:40This means that you are required to request approval from the Ministry of Health prior
01:45to entering the UAE with these controlled substances.
01:50The list of controlled medications is extensive and can be found on the official UAE government
01:55health website where you'll find links to apply for a permit if your medication is indeed
02:01classified as a controlled substance.
02:04Additionally, you should keep the medication in its original packaging along with your
02:09doctor's note.
02:113.
02:12Ramadan Laws and Rules During Ramadan, Dubai enforces strict rules
02:18prohibiting eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours.
02:24This applies to everyone including tourists, whether in cars or public spaces.
02:30Restaurants may serve food in screened-off areas, and hotels usually provide designated
02:35spaces for non-fasting guests.
02:38Tourists should be mindful of these regulations to avoid fines.
02:42The punishment is either a penalty of up to 2,000 dirhams, around $540, or one month
02:50in prison.
02:51Use private or designated areas for eating and drinking, and always respect local customs
02:58during this holy month.
03:004.
03:01E-Scooter Ban on Public Transport From March 2024, carrying or using e-scooters
03:07on Dubai's metro and tram services is prohibited.
03:12This measure aims to enhance safety for all public transport users.
03:17As a tourist, this means planning your commutes without relying on e-scooters on the metro
03:22or tram.
03:24You will need to use alternative methods to transport your e-scooter, such as private
03:29transport options.
03:31However, you need to be very careful to avoid getting ripped off.
03:36Compare prices between Uber, Kareem, and local taxis.
03:41Note that the taxis with pink roofs are for ladies only.
03:465.
03:47Public Decency Laws Dubai maintains conservative public decency
03:51laws.
03:53Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are frowned upon and can lead
03:57to legal trouble.
04:00From personal experience, I can tell you that things are a bit more relaxed in the more
04:04exclusive nightclubs, but as a rule, I suggest being cautious.
04:09Additionally, Dubai has a conservative dress code.
04:14Men and women are expected to dress modestly in public places, swimwear should only be
04:19worn at beaches or pool areas, and more modest attire is required elsewhere.
04:26If this is your first visit to Dubai, or you are planning to move there, check out my video
04:31titled 9 Reasons Why Dubai Ain't For Everyone, linked below.