United Arab EmiratesLevel 3/4

You must abide by local laws. Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad. Penalties for breaking the law in the UAE can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. No transfer of offender's treaty exists between Canada and the UAE. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in the UAE.

UAE authorities routinely notify the Embassy of Canada or Consulate following the arrest of a Canadian citizen. If you are arrested, request that the arresting authorities immediately notify the nearest Canadian government office of your arrest. If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the Embassy or Consulate of Canada. The UAE and Canadian criminal law systems are significantly different. Laws, penalties and legal procedures vary according to the emirate. Detention during the investigative period is common and can be lengthy. You may be held without access to legal counsel or consular assistance. You may also have to remain in the UAE for a parole period after your release. If you’re involved in legal proceedings, local authorities can prevent you from leaving the UAE by withholding your passport or enforcing an exit ban. Familiarize yourself with the rules and laws of each emirate to which you intend to travel. Overview of the criminal law system in the United Arab Emirates

Although rarely carried out, the death penalty can be applied in the UAE. If you are convicted of a crime, you can face:

• corporal punishment
• deportation
• the death penalty

Demonstrations rarely occur. Gatherings must be authorized in advance by local authorities. Emirati law prohibits organizing or participating in unauthorized gatherings. Convicted offenders could face severe penalties, including heavy fines and prison sentences up to life under various charges, such as:

• rioting
• preventing or disrupting the implementation of laws and regulation
• disturbing public peace or security

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect:

• heavy fines
• jail sentences
• the death penalty for severe offences, including drug trafficking

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, even for travellers in transit. Detection of drugs (including cannabis) in blood or urine tests can also lead to a conviction.

Although it’s legal to consume alcohol in private homes and licensed venues, it’s a punishable offence to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in public. Even passengers in transit through the UAE can be arrested if they’re under the influence of alcohol. Don’t drink alcohol outside private homes or licensed venues. Drugs, alcohol and travel

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications legally available in Canada, such as codeine and psychiatric medications, are classified as controlled substances in the UAE. It’s illegal to bring them into the country, even in small quantities, without prior permission from the UAE Ministry of Health. If you attempt to bring banned medication into the UAE without prior approval and required documentation, you may be subject to:

• confiscation of medication
• heavy fines
• jail sentences

Medical tests are mandatory to obtain or renew your residency permit. You could face prosecution if traces of prohibited substances are detected in your urine or blood sample, even if you haven’t imported the medication into the UAE. Consult the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s list of controlled medicines to determine if you must obtain a permission to import any required medication. You can obtain a permission by creating a profile online and completing an electronic form.

Emirati law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex. 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They could also be detained and face other charges such as:

• cross dressing
• gross indecency
• offence to public morals

2SLGBTQI+ persons could face:

• heavy fines
• jail sentences
• corporal punishment
• deportation
• the death penalty

They should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the UAE. Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

The importation, possession and use of drones, including aerial photography and videography, are strictly regulated in the UAE. You must obtain authorization before importing or operating a drone. Failure to comply with drone regulations may result in severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and confiscation of the equipment. Drone regulations – UAE Civil General Aviation Authority

UAE customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Public displays of affection, including holding hands and kissing, may attract the attention of local authorities. Verbal insults and obscene gestures may be considered criminal acts. Foreign female travellers are not expected to wear head covers. However, revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions
• interact on social media with the same care as you would in person
• seek permission from locals before photographing them

In 2027, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 7. In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

In Abu Dhabi and Dubai during Ramadan, restaurants remain open, serving food as normal. Most government and public sector businesses have reduced working hours.

Religious proselytism is illegal. You should avoid engaging in religious activities that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values. This includes preaching, possessing or distributing religious literature or material.

It’s illegal to criticize or disrespect the UAE’s:

• ruling families
• political system
• institutions

This includes comments made on social media. Punishment can be severe, including lengthy jail terms.

UAE family law is different from Canadian family law. Decisions are based on Islamic law. Children of an Emirati father automatically acquire Emirati citizenship at birth. Although the courts will review each case individually, custody of boys under the age of 11 and girls under 13 is normally awarded to the mother. Custody is normally transferred to the father once boys reach 11 and once girls reach the age of 13. Regardless of which parent is awarded custody, fathers are normally given guardianship responsibilities for the children by the courts, granting them significant legal rights. Guardians have the right to hold the child’s passport and can legally prevent the child from exiting the UAE.

The UAE is a Muslim country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in the UAE.

UAE employers may ask foreign employees to deposit their passports with the company as part of their terms and conditions of employment. This is illegal under UAE labour law. It is normal practice for hotels to take a photocopy of your passport or Emirates ID.

You cannot stay in a hotel if you’re under 18 years old and not accompanied by an adult.

Only cross roads using designated pedestrian crossings. It is illegal to cross in other places and you may face a fine or even imprisonment. Take care when crossing, as vehicles often do not stop at zebra crossings marked on the roads.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, it may cause offence if you:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Find out how Ramadan is observed in the UAE or get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts. You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
• be patient and show tolerance - fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the late afternoon and early evening

Dress modestly in public areas like shopping malls:

• women should cover shoulders and knees, and underwear should not be visible
• avoid transparent clothing or any attire that features imagery or phrases that could potentially offend others
• swimming attire should only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools
• cross-dressing is illegal

Some venues, events or buildings may have specific dress codes.

It is illegal to swear and make rude gestures, including online, as they are considered obscene acts. You could be jailed or deported. Take particular care when dealing with the police and other officials.

Showing affection in public is frowned upon. You can be arrested for kissing in public.

Consensual sexual relationships between a man and woman outside marriage are generally legal if both are aged 18 or over. This includes extra-marital sexual relationships. However, if either person’s spouse or parent/guardian files a criminal complaint, both parties of an extra-marital consensual relationship can get a prison sentence of 6 months or longer. If a person aged 18 or over has a sexual relationship with a person aged 17 or under, they will be prosecuted for having a sexual relationship with a minor. If both people are aged 17 or under, they will both be prosecuted but punishment is likely to be limited to a caution, parental supervision, judicial supervision, professional training or psychiatric treatment. If you are unmarried and give birth to a child in the UAE, you will only be able to get a UAE birth certificate if:

• both you and your partner get married
• you and your partner provide a joint declaration, certified by a notary public, to acknowledge the child - further information is available from the Ministry of Health and Prevention

If you become pregnant outside of marriage, your medical insurance may not cover you. Consult your medical insurance provider before getting pregnant, or giving birth in the UAE.

Financial crimes, including fraud and the non-payment of bills (including hotel bills) can often result in a prison sentence, a fine, or both. You could also have your bank accounts and other assets frozen. If you are arrested for a financial crime and are not resident in the UAE, it is likely you will not be allowed bail. If you are convicted, you may have to stay in prison until the debt is paid or waived, and you’ve served your full sentence.

Drinking or possessing alcohol is illegal in the Emirate of Sharjah, 30km north of Dubai. It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place anywhere in the UAE. British nationals have been arrested and charged under this law, often in cases where they have come to the attention of the police for a related offence, such as disorderly or offensive behaviour. The legal age for purchasing and drinking alcohol is 21 in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and in all Northern Emirates except Sharjah, where drinking and having alcohol in your possession is illegal. If you are resident in Dubai and want to buy alcohol to drink at home, you must get a liquor licence. Liquor licences are no longer required for residents in the other Emirates excluding Sharjah. Liquor licences are not required in Dubai to purchase and consume alcohol in licenced venues like hotel bars, restaurants, and pubs. However, a liquor licence is required for consuming alcohol in private places like homes or private parties. While this requirement might not be strictly enforced in private settings, it remains a legal requirement. Outside licensed venues, you can only buy alcohol with a liquor licence from the 2 official liquor distributors in Dubai, MMI and African & Eastern. Tourists can get a temporary liquor licence which is valid for one month, from either supplier. This licence is only for use in Dubai. Liquor licences are not required for non-residents in the other Emirates where alcohol is available. You can buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs.

There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. The penalties for trafficking, smuggling, using and possessing illegal drugs (including residual amounts) are severe. Sentences for drug trafficking can include the death penalty. Possession of even the smallest amount of illegal drugs, including cannabis, can lead to a minimum 3-month prison term or a fine of between 20,000 UAE dirham and 100,000 UAE dirham. The Emirati authorities count the presence of drugs in the blood stream as possession. Some ‘herbal highs’ and products containing cannabidiol (CBD) are illegal in the UAE. Possessing, concealing or making transactions with money from drugs-related offences is illegal. You could get a prison sentence and a fine. UAE airports have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items, including cannabis. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers. You can be arrested for carrying drugs, even residual amounts. Some skincare products and e-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in the UAE such as CBD oil. If you are found in possession of such products, they will be confiscated and you could face criminal charges. A list of narcotic, psychotropic and controlled drugs where this rule applies, allowed quantities and documents to be presented can be found on the UAE Ministry of Health website.

Fundraising and acts of charity are heavily regulated in the UAE. This includes online and social media activity. Check whether any of the activities you are planning to do in the UAE, or while travelling through the UAE, is illegal. Get legal advice if necessary.

It is illegal to take photos of some government buildings and military installations. Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood, particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports. Do not photograph people without their permission. Men have been arrested for photographing women on beaches.

Le cadre juridique s'inspire d’une conception du droit islamique stricte. Les infractions sont systématiquement poursuivies et punies plus durement qu’en Suisse. La législation peut varier d’un Emirat à l’autre. Les personnes de confession musulmane sont soumises à la charia, par exemple en matière de droit de la famille. En cas d’infraction d’ordre sexuel, la victime doit prouver, le cas échéant, qu’elle n’a pas elle-même enfreint la loi. Entre autres, les délits suivants sont punissables:

• l'alcool au volant (0 pour mille), la consommation d'alcool et l’ébriété dans un lieu public. Dans l’émirat de Sharjah, la consommation d’alcool est interdite en tout temps et en tout lieu.

• durant le Ramadan: manger, boire ou fumer en public durant la journée.

• tout comportement provocant en public, par exemple des gestes affectifs entre personnes adultes, les vulgarités.

• les relations homosexuelles

• des propos et critiques désobligeants à l'égard de la famille régnante, l’État ou de l'Islam (également sur les réseaux sociaux).

• La photographie des installations gouvernementales et militaires, des sites industriels tels que les champs pétrolifères et les raffineries, ainsi que des infrastructures stratégiques comme les aéroports. En cas de doute, il est recommandé de demander l'autorisation aux forces de sécurité locales ou de renoncer à prendre des photos.

De manière générale, abstenez-vous de formuler une opinion ou de débattre sur des sujets politiques dans des lieux publics ainsi que sur les réseaux sociaux. Quiconque pose des questions sur des thématiques politiques court le risque d’une accusation d’espionnage et d’une peine d’emprisonnement. De nombreux produits sont soumis à des restrictions ou interdictions d’importation. Conformez-vous aux consignes des autorités douanières locaux, par exemple: Dubai Customs: prohibited and restricted goods UAE Customs – local Customs Departments En règle générale, l'importation de médicaments aux Emirats est soumise à une réglementation stricte. Voir le chapitre Soins médicaux. Les personnes au volant impliquées dans un accident de la circulation ayant causé la lésion ou même la mort d’autrui sont en règle générale mises en garde à vue jusqu’à ce que la question de la responsabilité ait pu être déterminée. En cas de doute, pendant la procédure, les personnes de nationalité étrangère n’ont pas la possibilité de quitter le pays. Les infractions d’ordre économique ou financier sont également punies plus durement qu’en Suisse: par exemple, les chèques sans provision et les factures impayées sont passibles…

Il est recommandé d'adapter son comportement et sa tenue vestimentaire aux us et coutumes locaux ainsi qu'aux sensibilités religieuses. Renseignez-vous dans les guides de voyages, auprès de votre agence ou directement sur place, sur les codes de conduite et les conventions à respecter. Songez également aux règles et prescriptions particulières à observer durant la période du Ramadan. Demandez préalablement la permission aux personnes que vous souhaitez photographier.

Les excès de vitesse et les fréquentes infractions au code de la route augmentent considérablement les risques d'accident sur les routes des Emirats. Pour voyager dans le désert sans emprunter les routes asphaltées, il est recommandé de circuler uniquement en convoi de plusieurs véhicules tout terrain. Il est vital de se munir d’un instrument de navigation et d’une provision suffisante d’eau, de nourriture et de carburant, ainsi que de pièces de rechange. Les points de passage des frontières peuvent être temporairement fermés à court terme, par exemple afin d’endiguer la propagation de maladies. Informez-vous auprès des autorités locales ou directement auprès des postes-frontières.

Dans des cas isolés, des Suisses en possession d’un passeport provisoire se sont vus refuser l’entrée dans le Pays. Si vous vous rendez aux Émirats arabes unis, voyagez avec un passeport suisse ordinaire.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

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