The dark side of Dubai: All the strict rules tourists must follow – or risk jail

Dubai is known for its glitz and glamour, with holidaymakers flocking to its five-star hotels, chic restaurants and infinity pools.

But there is a dark side: ultra-strict laws.

Something that 18-year-old Londoner Marcus Fakana discovered when he was jailed for a year for having a consensual sexual relationship with a 17-year-old fellow tourist.

Still want to visit Dubai? Here are the rules tourists must follow in the UAE city – or risk jail time.

Photography

The British government explains on his Travel advice page for the UAE that it is illegal to take photos of some government buildings and military installations, and to photograph people without their consent in the UAE.

Simon Hood, executive director at shipping company John Mason Internationaltells MailOnline: ‘There it is a serious no-no to quickly take a photo of someone without permission and get yourself into trouble, even if it only happens in the background. It’s not just about politeness; it is the law.’

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Simon explains: ‘There’s a big problem with VPNs. In Britain, many people use them to access restricted sites or simply for security, but in Dubai, using a VPN to bypass blocks is illegal.

“Many travelers forget they have these on their devices and find themselves inadvertently breaking the law.”

Social media

The UK government explains: ‘It is illegal to post material online, including videos and photographs, that is critical of the government, companies or individuals, or that relates to incidents in the UAE.’

Do you think you can get away with it? Think again. For example, an Irish man faces ‘several years’ in prison in Dubai for sending a ninja emoji to an acquaintance who allegedly stole his belongings.

Simon adds: ‘Sharing anything that might be considered defamatory, offensive or invasive – such as posting photos of strangers or sharing videos of an accident – is not only frowned upon, but can also lead to large fines or worse.’

Poppy seeds

Poppy seeds, even in bakery products, are on the UAE’s list of ‘controlled substances’, the UAE has warned US government. That’s because they could be contaminated with opiates.

Some medications – including codeine

‘Drugs can be tricky,’ Simon explains, adding: ‘Common British medicines, such as codeine, are controlled substances. Carrying them without a prescription or proper documentation can get you in trouble.”

Sexual relations

Although a consensual relationship outside marriage, including extramarital affairs, between a man and woman over the age of 18 is generally legal in Dubai, the UK government warns that there are exceptions. In an extramarital relationship, if the spouse or parent of the other person files a complaint, both people involved in the relationship can receive a prison sentence of six months or more.

If someone aged 18 has a relationship with someone aged 17 or younger, they will be prosecuted for having a sexual relationship with a minor. If both people are under 18, they will be prosecuted, but the punishment is unlikely to involve a prison sentence.

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the UAE and same-sex marriages are not recognized.

Showing affection in public

Showing affection in public, such as kissing, is frowned upon. Tourists could be arrested for this, the British government warns.

Prohibited items

Simon explains: ‘Special permits are often required for things like drones, e-cigarettes or hoverboards. And some things you don’t think about at home – such as books with themes such as magic or witchcraft (think Harry Potter) – can attract extra attention at customs.

‘I remember one instance where a customer insisted on packing his own shipment and used British newspapers to pack everything. Customs flagged the shipment because of the provocative images and headlines on the newspaper, which delayed everything for weeks and led to additional costs.’

Swearing

The UK government explains: ‘It is illegal to swear and make rude gestures, including online, as these are considered obscene acts. You can be jailed or deported.”

Alcohol

It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place in the UAE, the British government has warned.

Tourists can purchase and drink alcohol in licensed hotels, restaurants and bars, but consuming alcohol in a private home requires a permit.

Illegal drugs

The UK government warns there is ‘zero tolerance’ for drug-related crimes in the UAE.

Possession of a small amount of illegal drugs can lead to a prison sentence of three months, while a drug trafficking offense can lead to the death penalty.

CBD products

‘Herbal highs’ and products containing cannabidiol (CBD) are illegal in the UAE. Even skin care products or e-cigarettes containing CBD oil could subject someone to criminal charges, the UK government explains.

Driving etiquette

“Offensive gestures and abusive language directed at other drivers could lead to fines, imprisonment and possible deportation,” the British government has warned.

Transvestism

The British government explains that cross-dressing is illegal in the UAE. It adds that ‘women should cover their shoulders and knees, and underwear should not be visible’ – and swimwear should only be worn on the beach or at swimming pools.

Ramadan rules

World Nomad Insurance explains: ‘During the holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking are prohibited between sunrise and sunset, and non-Muslims are expected to observe this principle in public as well.’

Simon adds: ‘Even outside this time of year it is illegal to eat and drink on public transport.’