How Does Photography Rules Work in UAE?
Last verified: 2025-01 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Photographing government buildings, military sites, and people without consent is illegal. Tourists have been arrested for innocent-seeming photos.
2What You Need to Know
The UAE has strict photography laws that have resulted in tourist arrests. It is illegal to photograph government buildings, royal palaces, military or police facilities, airports (beyond general areas), and certain infrastructure. Photographing women (especially local Emirati women) without their permission is illegal and can result in criminal charges. Sharing photos online that could embarrass individuals or show them in an undignified way is also a legal risk. Drone photography requires advance permits and is banned in many urban areas.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Always ask permission before photographing Emirati women or any local person
- 2The Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and major tourist attractions are all fine to photograph
- 3Do not photograph inside government offices, courts, or police stations under any circumstances
- 4Drone photography: register your drone with the UAE GCAA and get permits for each location
- 5Street photography of crowds is generally fine, but close-up portraits require consent
Important Warning
Tourists have been arrested and deported for photographing police stations, checkpoints, or Emirati women without permission. When in doubt, put the camera away.
How does this compare?
Photography Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Never photograph military sites, police, bridges, airports, or government buildings — tourists have been arrested for this.
Always ask before photographing people in Morocco as many demand payment or flat out refuse, and never photograph military or police.
Avoid photographing government buildings, military sites, and women without explicit consent — tourist sites like AlUla are freely photographable.
More About UAE
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10–15% at restaurants is standard. Round up for taxis.
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Dubai has an excellent metro and buses. Buy a Nol Card for all public transport in Dubai. Abu Dhabi has buses but no metro yet.
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Healthcare quality is excellent but expensive. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Many hospitals have English-speaking staff.
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The UAE has strict laws around alcohol, public behavior, drugs, and dress. What is legal in your home country may be a criminal offense here.
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Police: 999. Ambulance: 998. Fire: 997. Tourist Police (Dubai): 800-4438.
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Dress modestly in public. Shoulders and knees should be covered in malls, markets, and public areas. Swimwear is only for beaches and pools.
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