Dubai holidays offer plenty to British tourists but it’s important to keep your wits about you while in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Way of life is vastly different in Dubai than it is in the UK with some very different customs. It can be easy to get caught out by doing something that is perfectly acceptable in the UK but frowned upon in the UAE so do follow the latest travel advice. Eating and drinking well is what many Britons consider an essential part of a holiday abroad.
However, there’s is a time and a place for eating and drinking in Dubai – and it’s important you adhere to these rules.
One key law to remember is that eating and drinking is banned on all forms of public transport and their stations.
If you’re caught munching or swigging away on the metro or bus you will be fined Dhs 100 (£21), according to The Culture Trip.
Such an altercation could put a dampener on your day and potentially spoil your holiday.
You’ll also need to watch what you eat as certain foods are also banned which are considered innocuous in the UK.
For instance, poppy seeds are a banned substance throughout the UAE as they are a source of opium and heroin.
If you are found in possession of any it’s considered a serious violation and could result in jail time.
Tourists also need to be aware that they cannot bring any pork products into the UAE as this is illegal.
Medication is also a tricky topic when it comes to bringing them in luggage.
Holidaymakers wishing to bring in medication for personal use now have to seek permission to enter the UAE with it.
An online form has to be filled out by those declaring medication – and those who do not do so could be prosecuted and face jail time.
The new law – which applies to both visitors and residents – was introduced in November by The Ministry of Health in the United Arab Emirates.
Tourists are urged to fill out the required electronic form if they wish to take medicine on holiday with them.
Sharing a hotel room with someone of the opposite sex who you aren’t married to – and aren’t closely related to – is also illegal.
“All sex outside marriage is illegal, irrespective of any relationship you may have with your partner in the UK,” warns the Foreign Office.
“If the UAE authorities become aware that you’re conducting a sexual relationship outside marriage (as recognised by them), you run the risk of prosecution, imprisonment and/or a fine and deportation.”
Dancing is only allowed at home or in licensed clubs and events. To dance in public is considered “indecent and provocative”.
Both dancing and loud music are prohibited in public places, such as beaches, parks and residential areas.
