Dubai is known for its luxury and modernity, but it’s also a place where cultural and religious traditions heavily influence daily life. While the city welcomes tourists and expatriates from all over the world, there are still strict rules, especially for women, that might surprise visitors. And rules for local women are even tighter.
My brother and his wife lived and worked in Dubai for several years, and while my brother loved it, my sister-in-law found it incredibly restrictive, even within the modern English and American complex where they worked. Hence they chose to leave when their work contracts were up. As modern and forward as Dubai claims to be, and even though there have been some recent improvements in women’s rights, overall, it still has a long, long way to go.
1. Public Displays of Affection
In Dubai, public displays of affection, like holding hands or kissing, are strictly forbidden for women and men alike. This rule is even more enforced when it comes to women, who are expected to maintain modesty in public. Violating this can lead to fines, deportation, or even jail time.
2. Dressing Immodestly
Women in Dubai are expected to dress modestly in public places. Clothing that is too tight, short, or revealing is frowned upon and can attract unwanted attention or even fines. While bikinis are acceptable on private beaches and pools, in public spaces, women should cover their shoulders and knees.
3. Living With a Man Who Is Not a Relative or Husband
In Dubai, it is illegal for women to live with a man who is not their husband or a close relative. This rule is based on Islamic law, which prohibits cohabitation between unmarried couples. Women caught breaking this law can face severe penalties, including imprisonment.
4. Drinking Alcohol Outside Licensed Venues
While alcohol is available in Dubai, it is strictly regulated. Women are not allowed to drink alcohol in public or outside licensed venues such as hotels, bars, and clubs. Public drunkenness is also illegal, and women caught drinking in the wrong places can face serious consequences.
5. Driving in Certain Areas
While women are allowed to drive in Dubai, there are some areas where driving is restricted or requires special permission. For instance, some desert areas or private communities might have rules about who can drive there, often requiring a male companion or guide.
6. Traveling Without Permission
For women in Dubai, especially those under the guardianship of a male relative, traveling alone or without permission can be challenging. Although this rule is more relaxed for expatriates, local women might still need permission from their male guardian to travel abroad.
7. Smoking in Public
Smoking in public is generally frowned upon in Dubai, especially for women. While there are designated smoking areas, women who smoke in public can face social stigma and, in some cases, fines. This rule is in place to maintain public decorum and respect for local customs.
8. Participating in Certain Sports
Women in Dubai might find that participation in certain sports, particularly those considered too physical or revealing, is restricted. Activities like bodybuilding, wrestling, or even running in certain public areas can be discouraged for women due to cultural norms about modesty and femininity.
9. Taking Photos Without Permission
Taking photos of people, particularly women, without their permission is illegal in Dubai. Women, in particular, are protected by this law, which is meant to respect privacy and modesty. Tourists should be cautious when taking pictures in public places to avoid any legal issues.
10. Entering Certain Areas Without a Male Companion
Some areas in Dubai, such as certain private clubs or religious sites, might have restrictions on entry for women unless they are accompanied by a male relative. These rules are in place to maintain traditional values and ensure that interactions between men and women are appropriate.
11. Dancing in Public
Dancing in public places is generally not allowed in Dubai. Women who are caught dancing in the street or in non-licensed venues can face fines or other penalties. This rule is intended to keep public behavior in line with local customs, where dancing is seen as a private activity.
12. Showing Skin in Religious Sites
When visiting religious sites in Dubai, women must be especially careful to dress modestly. This means covering their heads, arms, and legs. Failing to do so can be seen as disrespectful and may result in being denied entry or facing fines.
13. Using Profanity
In Dubai, using profanity, making rude gestures, or swearing in public can lead to serious consequences, especially for women. This behavior is considered highly inappropriate and can result in fines, imprisonment, or even deportation. Women are expected to maintain a high standard of public behavior.
14. Sharing Hotel Rooms With Men
Unmarried couples, including expatriates, are technically not allowed to share hotel rooms in Dubai. While this rule is often not strictly enforced for tourists, it is still illegal, and women should be aware of the risks. Breaking this rule can lead to legal trouble.
15. Criticizing the Government
Criticizing the government or speaking out against local customs and laws is strictly forbidden in Dubai. Women, in particular, are advised to avoid any discussions that might be seen as disrespectful to the country’s leaders or policies. Doing so can result in arrest and severe penalties.
Katy Willis is a writer, master herbalist, master gardener, and certified canine nutritionist who has been writing since 2002. She’s finds joy in learning new and interesting things, and finds history, science, and nature endlessly fascinating.
