Dubai:
1. Government & Strategic Buildings
The UAE classifies many structures as “sensitive infrastructure.” Taking photos of these is strictly prohibited for security reasons.
- What to avoid: Military sites, palaces (unless specifically designated for tourists), police stations, and government ministries.
- The “Airport Rule”: While snapping a selfie in the Duty-Free area is fine, taking photos of immigration desks, security scanners, or runway infrastructure is a major offense.
- The Fine: Penalties can include fines of up to AED 5,000, immediate deletion of files, or legal detention if the site is classified as a high-security military zone.
2. People & Privacy (The Most Important Rule)
Dubai’s privacy laws are much stricter than those in Europe or North America.
- The Rule: You cannot take a photo of a stranger and post it online (social media, blogs, etc.) without their explicit consent.
- The Fine: Under the UAE Cybercrime Law, “invading the privacy of an individual” using a camera can lead to a fine of up to AED 500,000 and jail time.
- Pro Tip: If you are taking a “street style” photo and people are in the background, you are usually safe. However, if the person is the subject of the photo, you must ask first—especially when photographing local Emirati families or women.
3. Drones: Not for Tourists
As of 2025, the use of recreational drones (like DJI Mavics) is strictly prohibited for tourists in the UAE.
- The Law: All hobbyist drone activity was suspended in 2022 and has not been reinstated for the general public.
- The Fine: Flying an unauthorized drone can lead to massive fines and the immediate seizure of the drone. If you see a drone flying over the city, it is likely a professional, government-licensed crew with specific permits.
🏗️ 4. The “No Photography” Sign
If you see a sign with a camera and a red line through it, obey it instantly. * You will often see these around construction sites (for safety and proprietary reasons), shipping ports, and near the bridges of the Dubai Creek.
- Museums: Most museums allow photography but forbid professional tripods and flash unless you have a media permit.
📊 Summary: Where Can You Snap?
| Location | Allowed? | Condition |
| Burj Khalifa / Skyscrapers | ✅ Yes | No restrictions for personal use. |
| Dubai Mall / Public Malls | ✅ Yes | Don’t focus on specific people/staff. |
| Beaches (JBR/Kite Beach) | ⚠️ Caution | Avoid taking photos of other people in swimwear. |
| Police / Military Vehicles | ❌ No | Strictly prohibited. |
| Metro Stations | ✅ Yes | Personal use only; no tripods. |
💡 2025 Professional Tip
If you are a professional photographer or influencer with a “large” setup (tripods, lighting, external mics), security guards in areas like Downtown or Bluewaters may ask for your NOC (No Objection Certificate).
- For standard smartphone or handheld camera use, you are almost always fine.
- If you have a tripod, you are viewed as a “commercial” entity and will need a permit from the Dubai Film and TV Commission.
Relevant Hashtags
#DubaiPhotography #TravelRules2025 #DubaiLaws #VisitDubai #PhotographyTips #DubaiBuzz #CybercrimeLawUAE
Would you like me to find the official link to apply for a “Personal Photography Permit” if you plan to use a tripod in public spaces?