The UAE is known for its strict laws, but beyond the well-publicized regulations, there are lesser-known rules that could catch you off guard. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi, here are some unexpected ways you might find yourself in legal trouble.
Swearing in public is taken seriously in the UAE, where even using the F-word is considered a crime. According to Article 373 of the UAE Penal Code, such language “disgraces the honor or modesty” of a person and can result in up to a year in prison or a fine of 10,000 dirhams. Even seemingly small gestures, like flashing your middle finger, are considered “indecent” and can lead to deportation.
This extends to digital communications as well. Using swear words on WhatsApp or other social media platforms violates UAE cyberlaws. Even sending emojis that depict indecent gestures can result in fines of up to 250,000 dirhams, imprisonment, or deportation.
Respecting privacy is paramount in the UAE. Using a computer network or social media to invade another person’s privacy is punishable by a minimum six-month jail sentence and fines ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 dirhams.
A notable case in 2016 involved a woman in Ajman who was fined 150,000 dirhams and deported after transferring photos from her husband’s phone to hers without permission, later using them to accuse him of infidelity.
You may think it’s harmless to sip water on the metro or have a snack while waiting for a bus, but in the UAE, consuming food or beverages on public transport or at stations is strictly prohibited. Offenders can expect a fine of 100 dirhams.
Charity fundraising is heavily regulated in the UAE. Any fundraising activity must be approved by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). Publicizing a fundraiser without permission is illegal and can result in imprisonment, fines of 250,000 to 500,000 dirhams, or even deportation.
While VPNs are commonly used around the world, using one to bypass restrictions or access blocked content in the UAE is risky. Under the country’s cybercrime laws, using a VPN to commit or hide a crime can result in fines ranging from 500,000 to 2 million dirhams. This includes activities like accessing restricted websites or downloading copyrighted material.
You might assume that a dusty car is understandable given the UAE’s frequent sandstorms, but dirty cars are viewed as a public eyesore. Authorities regularly tow away unclean vehicles, with owners facing fines and impound fees of 3,000 dirhams.
Ironically, while having a dirty car can land you in trouble, so can washing your car incorrectly. Washing your vehicle in residential areas or hiring unlicensed laborers for the task is illegal. It’s considered harmful to the environment and a detriment to the city’s appearance. Instead, you must use official car-washing facilities at petrol stations or shopping malls.
The UAE is extremely protective of personal privacy. Taking a photo of someone without their permission is a grave offense, especially if the images are posted online. Under cybercrime laws, you could be fined up to 500,000 dirhams and face a six-month jail term. In some cases, offenders have been deported, and sentences can be even more severe in practice.
The UAE’s legal system is strict and comprehensive, extending to both public behavior and online activity. While some of these laws may seem unusual to visitors, they reflect the country’s emphasis on respect, privacy, and social order. Staying informed and aware of these regulations is crucial to ensure your stay in the UAE is trouble-free. Always err on the side of caution and respect the laws to avoid any unexpected legal complications or consult a legal specialist in the country’s laws when uncertain.
