The real question is – how many have you broken today? We all know by now how strict the laws are in Dubai (I mean, how else do you think they got the city to be so safe?), but did you know that there might be miscellaneous laws that you could be breaking every day without even knowing it? Come with me, and I’ll take you through the do’s and don’ts of Dubai.
Also read: UAE Residents Permitted To Use VPNs – If They Follow These Basic Rules
1. Calling Other People Names/ Using Abusive Words:
In Dubai, using derogatory language or verbal abuse is a serious offense. Even a seemingly harmless name-calling like ‘stupid’ can lead to punishment, including detention for up to one year or a fine of up to AED 10,000. The UAE has strict laws against defamation and cybercrimes. Expatriates have been deported for making derogatory Islamophobic comments or posts on social media. The country maintains a zero-tolerance policy and strictly enforces a code of conduct regarding defamation on electronic platforms.
2. Filming An Accident That You Are Not Involved In:
Taking photos and videos of disasters/accidents and injured/deceased individuals in accidents in the UAE is illegal. This act is punishable by up to six months in jail or a fine ranging from AED 150,000 to AED 500,000, or both, as per the recently amended UAE Cybercrime Law. Authorities warn against misusing social media by posting pictures or videos of others without their consent or the authorities’ permission. Unauthorized photography of individuals and publishing it on social media is prohibited. In the case of a crime or incident, any relevant video must be submitted to the police or competent authorities for investigation.
3. Checking Someone Else’s Phone Without Their Knowledge & Consent
In the UAE, respecting someones phone privacy is a big deal; it’s illegal to snoop into someone else’s mobile phone without their permission. If caught, you could be fined up to AED 10,000. This applies even if you suspect your partner of cheating or using drugs. You cannot access their personal messages or photos without their consent – it’s considered a breach of privacy by law enforcement. The same goes for a friend or family member’s lost or left-behind phone; do not access their messages or photos without explicit permission.
How many of these laws have you broken and will you ever do them again now?
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