UAE Ministry of Interior & Penal Code Compliant
UAE Public Decency & Social Norms Legal Guide
Authoritative handbook for expats on public conduct rules — unmarried cohabitation legal updates, Ramadan fasting decorum, dress codes, and avoiding legal fines.
UAE Public Compliance & Decency Checker
Select a cultural compliance topic to review statutory legal status and decorum rules under Ministry of Interior (MOI) and Ministry of Justice (MOJ) guidelines.
LEGAL & PERMITTED (Decriminalized in 2020)
Unmarried Cohabitation & Living Together Laws
Federal Decree-Law No. 15 of 2020 permits unmarried couples of different genders to share housing/cohabitate legally in the UAE.
Elaborated Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 15 of 2020, unmarried couples of opposite sexes can legally cohabitate in residential properties across all 7 emirates without requiring marriage certificates.
In Dubai, residents and tourists can apply for a free alcohol license online or at retail stores (MMI / African + Eastern). In Abu Dhabi and northern emirates, personal licenses are no longer required for home consumption.
Eating, drinking, or smoking in public outdoor areas during daylight fasting hours in Ramadan is restricted. However, licensed restaurants, food courts, and private corporate offices serve food freely behind dividers.
Government offices, courts, and official institutions require smart modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and beachwear are prohibited.
Yes. Under UAE Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021), photographing individuals without their explicit consent or posting photos/videos of others online without permission carries heavy fines and deportation.
Public profanity, offensive gestures (including via social media/messaging), or physical aggression violate the Federal Penal Code and can result in fines starting at AED 5,000, jail terms, and deportation.