Being in Muslim country can be a culture shock if you don't know what you're getting yourself into. Let me lessen the shock for you...
First of all, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) tourist population has been increasing over the years, so the rules are becoming less and less strict.
Rule 1:
No PDA, even hand holding (unless married)! You will only see men hold hands with each, this symbolizes deep friendship. Going here with my long distance boyfriend (he lives in Germany and I live in Arizona), it was very hard to refrain from the occasional kissies and hand holding! (In Dubai, however, there are so many tourists that no one cares anymore, as long as you use common curiosity about it)
TIP: If you're on your honeymoon, don't go here haha!
Rule 2:
No photographs of others without permission! You could receive a fine and go to court for this. Even public beaches have signs that say "no photography!" (This means your camera, you can still use your phone to take photos)
Rule 3:
Absolutely no swearing! Tourists have been fined and imprisoned.
Rule 4:
Women and men are to be kept in separate living quarters until marriage, no exceptions! Some traditional hotels will refuse you a room if you and your partner aren't married. You won't find any baby mommas here!
TIP: Stay at a Marriott, many Americans stay here and the rules don't apply.
Rule 5:
Be modest, especially in public places like the mall, you shouldn't show your shoulders or knees at the very least. As I mentioned, in touristy parts they won't care as much but still try to respect the culture. If you're not covered enough, you will get weird looks and feel like a circus freak. (Speaking from personal experience)
When visiting a mosque, girls MUST cover everything from your hair to your toes and wrists. And take off your shoes. Guys are lucky, a T'shirt and normal shorts are fine!
TIP: Always keep a light scarf with you just in case you need to cover your shoulders or hair.
Rule 6:
No public drinking, this isn't Vegas! The drinking age is 21 and only clubs and hotels can serve alcohol. That's right, you can't buy it at the store for yourself unless you have an alcohol license (only issued to non-Muslim residents).
Drinking and driving is not tolerated at all. Forget a DUI, you go straight to the big house or deported!
Rule 7:
No drugs! No surprise there, but what is surprising is this also applies to some over the counter and prescription meds! Here is a list of 70 prohibited medicines:
Rule 8:
No smoking in public places, there are designated smoking areas. You must be at least 18 years old to smoke.
Rule 9:
No Dancing! You may only dance in your home or in licensed clubs and events. Otherwise it is considered provocative to dance in public.
Before you cancel your trip, let me comfort you in saying that as long as you stick to the touristy areas, some of these rules won't apply. Such as PDA, no photography, being modest, and women and men living separately.
But in the traditional parts, watch your back.
I visited a public beach in the city of Abu Dhabi and even saw this sign.
