DUBAI is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting over seven million visitors in the first six months of 2022.
Given its popularity, it is important to know what you can and cannot do when you are visiting Dubai.
Can you hold hands in public in Dubai?
The Executive Council in Dubai has published a code of conduct that states what is acceptable when you are out in public in Dubai.
The code says that only straight couples who are married are allowed to hold hands in public.
Even in the case of married couples, the practice is tolerated, but not encouraged.
In theory, you can hold hands in public in Dubai, however, you risk offending the locals and going against their cultural customs.
Can you hug in public in Dubai?
Forms of physical affection, like hugging, would be seen as offensive to Dubai locals.
The country frowns upon public displays of affection and therefore, sharing a hug in public may attract negative attention.
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However, hugging in public would not be deemed as offensive as kissing in public and if it was kept short, would likely be ignored.
A friendly hug between friends or family would likely be permitted.
Can you kiss in public in Dubai?
While married couples are permitted to hold hands in public, kissing is considered to be offensive to public decency.
The UAE government guidelines define kissing as "inappropriate behaviour".
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Couples who kiss briefly to say goodbye might get away with it, however if the kiss is too long or seen by the wrong person, this might be a different story.
There have been instances in which couples have been arrested and charged for public displays of affection in Dubai.
In 2017, a couple were sentenced to one month in prison after they were found hugging and kissing in the bathroom of a service station.
Similarly, in 2010 a British couple were jailed for one month and then fined and deported for kissing in public.
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