USA to UAE: 5 Dubai laws and customs you need to know

With its gorgeous beaches, luxurious resorts and stunning architecture, Dubai is a hugely popular tourist destination.

But despite its western feel, Dubai has a cultural history rooted in traditional Islamic laws and customs —so it’s worth making sure that you’re familiar with theway of life here before you visit.

With that in mind, here are five rules to follow.

1. Dress modestly

Tourists are not expected to wear tradition UAE attire, but they should dress modestly. For example, you should ensure clothing isn’t transparent and coversthe tops of your arms and legs.

Swimwear should also only be worn at pools and beaches, so make sure you cover yourself when walking from your accommodation to a pool area.

2. Public displays of affection

Public displays of affection (PDA) should be kept to a minimum. It’s is fine for a married couple to hold hands, but physical contact such as kissing, hugging and petting are considered public decency offences and could result in arrest.

Take a look at this Step By Step guide on PDA in Dubaifor more in-depth information.

3. Alcohol

The legal drinking age in Dubai is 21 and alcohol is available only at licenced venues such as bars, clubs and hotel restaurants.

It’s a criminal offence todrink or to be found to be under the influenceof alcohol outside of these premises,so drink responsibly.

4. Smoking

Smoking is banned in public places,but there are plenty of designated smoking areas throughout the city.

However, e-cigarettes are illegal, will be confiscated at the border and carry a fine for those of you trying to bring them into the country.

5. Ramadan

Ramadan is an Islamic festival which lasts for one month andduring this time Muslims refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours.

As a result, some food and drink premises are closed during the day and, as a mark of respect, tourists should not eat or drink in public during thistime either.

If these restrictions are something you think you might struggle with, it’s best to book your vacation outside of Ramadan. However, some restaurants do remainopen and have discreet dining areas.

Check out thislife during Ramadan article from Dubai Online for more information.

Traveling to Dubai

According to Flightdurations.com, the average flight time from the US to Dubai is 15 hours and 10 minutes, so be prepared for a long journey.

And to help lowerpre-flight stress levels, consider driving to the airport. Driving allows you to travel comfortably at the time that suits you best andyou can find great deals on US airport parking at Looking4.com.

The laws and customs in Dubai are very different to those in the US, but as long as you’re mindful and respectful of them, there’s nothing to stop you from having a fantastic time in this wonderful city.

That’s our list! Share your own Dubai travel tips in the comments section.