5 Shocking Things You Could Get Fined For In DUBAI

Dubai’s luxury, order, and cleanliness are world-renowned. Even though most locals expect fines for speeding and littering, some lesser-known ones take residents, as well as tourists, by surprise.

In Dubai, you might get in trouble for riding the Metro while sleeping or taking someone else’s photo without permission. Here are five surprising things that could get you fined and what you can do instead.

Jaywalking 

In Dubai, crossing the road in the wrong place can get you fined AED 400. Concern for pedestrian safety is paramount for the authorities on multi-lane highways. The Dubai Police remind us to use pedestrian crossings, bridges, or signal-controlled crossings only. Crossing the road outside a marked crossing, even when the road appears empty, is considered Jaywalking. Crossing the street while using your phone is not advised when distracted your safety is in danger.

Why it matters

Dubai experiences fast-moving traffic on its road network, as vehicles speed in excess of 80 km/h on the main roads. A distracted pedestrian may cause sudden braking and collision accidents.

Safe tip

Always cross at the green pedestrian signal. If there is no other way you can either walk to the other bridge or tunnel. That extra minute could save you AED 400 and your safety.

Taking Photos Without Consent 

Love taking photos on holiday? Be careful where and who you capture. It is against the law in Dubai to take the photo of someone without their consent. You can face serious fines and legal action for this. Not getting permission first applies to recording videos too or sharing content over the Internet. Besides, it is strictly prohibited to take a picture of government & semi-government buildings. That includes police stations, airports, courts, and some offices.

Why it matters

Dubai protects privacy rights strongly. A selfie you take may seem harmless but will include a stranger in the background who did not want to be online.

Safe tip

If one is taking someone’s photo, always ask for permission. When taking landscape or landmark shots, be careful their face is not clear in your shot. And completely steer clear of shooting at government buildings.

Sleeping on the Metro 

Feeling sleepy after a long day? The Dubai Metro platforms are not a napping area, or else you will be fined AED 300. Sleeping on the Metro platforms or in restricted areas is against the law, according to the RTA.  The rule preserves safety and orderliness of public transport and its vicinity. Although taking brief naps inside the Metro train is not noticed, it is not allowed to lie down or sleep on benches, floors or corners of the platform.

Why it matters

Metro is under high security and surveillance. They are looking to avoid overcrowding and loitering which could look suspicious to other passengers.

Safe tip

Feeling too sleepy to keep your eyes open? Don’t hesitate to grab a coffee before your ride, or sit in one of the seating areas outside the platform! It’s better to rest safely than risk a fine.

Washing Your Car in Public

In Dubai, washing your car in public places might not seem harmful, but it is punishable by law. It is punishable with a fine of no less than AED 100 for cleaning your vehicle on the roads, parking lots or open places. The reason? The drains of the city get clogged due to dirty water and soap. They leave stains making the city dirty.

Officials suggest that vehicle owners consult trained staff at professional car washes. Even small neighbourhood car washing activities are allowed only in designated locations and not on pavements or inside residential lanes.

Why it matters

Dubai maintains high standards of cleanliness that is evident all over the city. Getting your car cleaned publicly not only looks bad but also wastes water and pollutes the area.

Safe tip

You could go to a registered car wash service or hire approved cleaners from your building. It’s cleaner, safer, and prevents any penalty.

Chewing Gum on the Metro 

If you are going to be using the Metro to go to work or the mall, finish your gum. You are not allowed to chew gum on the Dubai metro or eat or drink. If you go against this rule, you will face a fine of AED 100. This is an essential action to keep train carriages clean and tidy. Sticky gum, stuck under the seat, or on the door damages the surface and is hard to clean.

Why it matters

Everyone knows that Dubai’s Metro is quite clean and efficient. Tight restrictions help in keeping the Java Sea from litter and bad smells. 

Safe tip

Dispose of your gum before entering the Metro gates. In case you forget, please wrap it in a tissue and throw it in a dustbin before boarding.

Why Dubai Enforces These Rules

While Dubai fines might seem harsh, they are, in reality, a good way to keep the city clean, organized, and safe. Officials in the UAE take civic responsibility quite seriously. Regulations are not a limitation of freedom but rather a means of respecting and regulating people in public.

Every year, the city welcomes millions of visitors and high standards will be delivered only with betters cooperation. Whether it is hygiene and safety or respect for privacy, every fine has a message – “Be careful and considerate.”

Quick Summary of Fines

Final Thoughts

The charm of Dubai is not only because of the buildings, but also because its people and tourists respect rules. All the penalties mentioned serve as a reminder that discipline is deeply ingrained in the city’s culture. If you follow these small but meaningful rules, the city can work smoothly and be fun.

During your next visit to Dubai, cross the street on the lights, keep the camera out of the way, and finish your gum before getting on the Metro. If you want to enjoy a beautiful city fully, get to know it a little first. This way, you will avoid unnecessary trouble.