The UAE grabbing international attention.
United Arab Emirates has become a global attraction for tourists and expats from all over the globe. With the availability of inexpensive and direct flights to the UAE, especially Dubai, and the easy methods of obtaining the visa, many people started targeting Dubai for a short visit or a longer stay. In this blog, we would be highlighting some of the firm laws that more foreigners would not know about the United Arab Emirates.
Behavior and Conduct in the public
While in other western societies what we are going to disclose now might seem like normal behavior, some actions are forbidden in the United Arab Emirates. The examples include usage of any sort of offensive words or actions. Another good example would be showing affection in public spaces. Can you imagine that even holding hands in public could be considered inappropriate and illegal, at least technically.
Another important behavior that rules in the United Arab Emirates consider illegal is to spread wrong information or rumors. This is considered a crime and might lead to an imprisonment punishment.
How to dress in the UAE
Foreigners and expats should dress humbly and modestly in all public areas. For ladies, they are expected to cover both their knees and shoulders. On the other hand, men are forbidden to wear sleeveless. Swimming suits and clothes are only allowed at the sea or the swimming pool.
Ramadan has some other rules as eating, drinking, or smoking during the day in public areas are not preferable at all. Exceptions of these rules include young kids and pregnant ladies.
Alcohol consumption and usage of various materials
It is prohibited to drink alcohol except in venues with licenses from the authorities of the UAE including hotels, bars, and discos. Drinking at home is always fine in the UAE. However, drinking in public areas like beaches or parts is considered illegal.
Taking pictures and other media activities
It’s forbidden to take photos of governmental or military buildings or avenues, the same as almost all countries all over the world. Other media activities like shooting films, any sort of broadcasting, or creating content, even for social media should be done after obtaining the required permits from the authorities of the United Arab Emirates.
Financial offenses
The government of the United Arab Emirates has severe laws against all sorts of financial crimes including fraud, the refusal to pay debts, and bounced checks. All these actions might lead the committer to jail and several penalties and fines.
Traffic Behavior
Like most of the countries in various regions around the world, the United Arab Emirates’ government prohibits several practices while driving, including the usage of smart phones, drinking, and eating. This is in addition to any offensive behavior during driving. All these actions might lead to severe penalties.
Other restricted practices
In some certain states, or emirates, like in Al Sharjah, pork production is completely illegal. It’s also illegal to check the phone of other people as this is considered an invasion of their own private lives. Moreover, all tools and equipment related to gambling are banned.
Final Thoughts
The same laws issued by the government of the United Arab Emirates apply for both Emirati nationals and foreigners, all the same. However, foreigners might face severe limitations like public intoxication, wearing unsuitable outfits, or when they show any sort of disrespect to the cultural and historical beliefs and norms of the country.
Expats and tourists should clearly understand the rules and regulations of the government of the United Arab Emirates. This includes the objects they can bring from outside the country and other items that are forbidden. This is to ensure they are having a wonderful experience in one of the finest countries in the region.
It’s always advisable to check the latest update regarding the rule and the regulations of the UAE before their visit. However, the United Arab Emirates are among the friendliest countries all over the world in their treatment of tourists and foreigners. In fact, a large portion of the residents of several emirates, especially Dubai, are expats from all over the world.
