This law was based on Emirati culture and the Muslim religion, which forbids sexual relations outside marriage. However, Dubai remains one of the most tolerant cities in the United Arab Emirates and has revised its law. Thus, since the end of 2020, living as a couple in Dubai is possible even if you are not married.
Consensual sexual relationships between a male and female outside marriage where both are over the age of 18 years, including extra-marital sexual relationships, is generally permitted under UAE law.
A: It is generally safe for unmarried couples to stay in Dubai as long as they follow the law and respect local customs. Unmarried couples should avoid public displays of affection, as this is forbidden in the UAE.
Unmarried couples in Dubai
Sexual relationships or unmarried couples cohabiting is illegal in Dubai. Cohabiting, including in hotels, is also illegal, however most hotels in Dubai do not enforce an 'only married couples' rule. The luxury hotels which mostly cater to foreigners are especially relaxed.
Marriage contract needs to be registered in a Sharia court in the UAE. Legal age for marriage is 18 Hijri years; otherwise, the judge's approval is required. A spouse's age should not be twice the other; otherwise, the judge's approval is sought. A premarital screening certificate is needed.
According to the law, it's illegal for unmarried couples to stay in the same room during a holiday in Dubai. In reality, this is not strictly enforced and it's unlikely you'll be challenged on it. Many unmarried couples visit Dubai every year without issue.
Relationships and Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection are not welcome in Dubai, though you can hold hands with your heterosexual partner. Kissing and cuddling in public areas can be seen as obscene acts and it is against Dubai's laws for a minor (anyone under 18) to be in a sexual relationship.
As per local regulations, we are allowed to allow access to guest rooms only if the person has been preregistered on check in as an occupant and a valid ID is provided on arrival of the visitor. If the visitor does not have an ID, they are more than welcome to meet our guests in any of the public areas of the Hotel.
In Dubai, holding hands, hugging, and kissing in public is considered socially unacceptable and if caught indulging in such acts, you might land up in jail.
The Dubai Tourism Bureau states: “Dubai is a cosmopolitan city that recognises that marriage does not define all relationships and as such does not discriminate against singles or unmarried couples visiting the emirate.”
Privacy is a huge matter in the UAE, and taking pictures of people without permission is illegal. Article 378 of the UAE Penal Code (Federal Law No. 3 of 1987) states that taking a person's photo without his/her consent is an invasion of privacy, and thus punishable by law.
Dubai is a country where the laws are Islamic and these laws are very sensitive in nature. Therefore watch your language before you say something. It is not necessary that what you consider fine in your country would also be fine in Dubai. So never swear in Dubai, especially in Public.
Is it safe for women to travel solo in Dubai? Yes, unreservedly. Dubai is considered among the top 10 safest countries for female solo travellers, so there is no need to hesitate before getting that Dubai visa.
Regulations. Islamic law prohibits unmarried couples from living together. The same rule applies to sharing a hotel room. In theory, hotels should also not call you a cab or help you book a tour in which you will be alone with your partner.
It is illegal for muslims to cohabit before marriage. It is therefore against the law in Dubai to share a room if you are not married, HOWEVER, it is one of the laws that a blind eye is turned to for the tourist trade and therefore it will not be an issue - no one will ask yoiu they will just assume you are.
It does not matter if one party kisses the other on the lips, on the cheek, or in a private place that would get them locked upon any part of the world; kissing is forbidden in public places in Dubai.
So, is Dubai really that expensive? Dubai isn't actually much more expensive than London, New York, and other big cities. However, Dubai's not a very walkable city. Jaywalking is illegal, and crossings are few and far between.
Dubai's official language is Arabic but there are many variations prevalent in the city. Standard Arabic – the modernised, literary version – is the one you'll encounter in all legal, administrative and government texts, as well as books and newspapers.
The importation and sale of religious material is allowed; however, attempts to spread Christianity among Muslims are not permitted.
The UAE's law prohibits sale of tobacco and tobacco products to children. Smoking in public transportation, private vehicles and indoor places in the presence of a child is also prohibited.
While there is no official dress code as such, modesty is appreciated and it is advisable to dress conservatively when in public places. The culture and customs of Dubai are based on Islamic traditions and practices.
Is Dubai safe for solo female travelers ? Yes, Dubai is definitely safe for solo female travelers, and it is the perfect destination for solo female digital nomads!
In Dubai, women are largely safe. According to a Georgetown University study in 2021, the UAE holds the greatest percentage of women who feel safe in their communities worldwide. 98.5% reported they felt safe. That is the highest percentage worldwide.