Living in the UAE: Surprising laws from tidy cars to texting etiquettes

Dubai, known for its glitz and glamour, is also renowned for its laws and regulations. While some laws may seem unconventional to visitors, they are integral to maintaining order and upholding societal values. Here are some unique laws and regulations that you should be aware of when in Dubai:

Dirty Car Fine: 500 AED

Keeping your car spick and span isn't just about appearances in Dubai, it's the law. A fine of 500 AED awaits those who drive around with a dirty vehicle. This regulation underscores the city's commitment to cleanliness and aesthetics on its roads.

fine of 500 AED awaits those who drive around with a dirty vehicle.Shutterstock

Verbal Insult Fine: Up to 2000 AED and 2 Years Jail Time

Words can have serious consequences in Dubai. Calling someone derogatory names like 'stupid' or 'silly' can land you in hot water, with fines reaching up to 2000 AED and the possibility of a two-year jail sentence. This strict regulation emphasizes the importance of respecting others and upholding societal decorum.

Calling someone names can land you in trouble according to the UAE lawShutterstock

Balcony Clothesline Fine: 1000 AED

Hanging laundry on your balcony might seem like a harmless chore elsewhere, but in Dubai, it's a punishable offense. The municipality imposes a fine of 1000 AED to discourage this unhygienic practice and maintain the city's visual appeal.

Airing your laundry in the balcony railings can get you a 500 dh fine.Generated by AI

Filming Accidents Fine: Up to 50,000 AED

While curiosity might get the better of some rubberneckers, the UAE’s Ministry of Interior says snapping photos or videos of traffic accidents and circulating them on social networking sites is a violation of the law. It’s also illegal to post images or videos of aviation accidents, with those found guilty facing up to life imprisonment and/or a fine between Dhs50,000 and Dhs3 million, as well as deportation.

Filming a road accident in Dubai, unless you are involved in one is a criminal offense.Shutterstock

Catcalling Fine: Up to 10,000 AED, Deportation or Jail time:

Catcalling and any behavior that makes women feel uncomfortable or violated are serious offenses in Dubai. Perpetrators can face fines of up to 10,000 AED or a year-long detention. This regulation reflects the city's commitment to gender equality and creating a safe environment for all residents.

Catcalling can get you in serious trouble, a fine for 10,000 AED, Deportation or Jail timeshuttertock

Partner's Phone Check Fine: Up to 100,000 AED and 3 Years Jail Time

Privacy is paramount in Dubai, even within relationships. Unauthorized access to a partner's phone can result in fines ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 AED and up to three years of imprisonment. This law underscores the importance of respecting individuals' personal boundaries and data privacy. The violators can be prosecuted under Federal Penal Code No 380 which protects the privacy and freedom of both spouses.

Checking partner’s phone without consent can land you in jailShutterstock

Feeding Stray Animals Fine: 500 AED

While compassion for animals is commendable, feeding stray animals in Dubai is prohibited. This act can attract fines of 500 AED as per the rules set by Dubai Municipality. The aim is to manage the city's stray animal population and ensure public safety. Dubai municipality announced that officials were receiving reports of the stray animals showing aggressive behaviour towards children which can be extremely unsafe for the kids and stray cats from nearby areas get attracted to the food strewn around which can result in ugly fights among themselves.

Feeding stray cats is illegal in the UAE.OIPA