Dubai: New Rules to Reign In Behavior

No Comments | March 18th, 2009 | Trackback

Dubai authorities revealed new rules for behavior in public through an article in a newspaper with close ties to Dubai’s ruling family. The new guidelines have not become law but point to a tightening of restrictions on behavior that, from the point of view of the emirate’s conservative, traditional culture, has got out of hand. Any expression of affection beyond a kiss on the cheek is frowned upon; dancing or playing loud music in public will be banned; miniskirts and skimpy shorts will not be tolerated outside private areas and hotels; bikinis and other non-traditional swimming attire will not be allowed on public beaches; drinking alcohol will be restricted to licensed premises and private areas. This all sounds draconian for a place that has cultivated the image of a swinging international playground, but the new rules are unlikely to apply to private resorts and nightclubs, the places most tourists patronize. The rules appear to be aimed at public areas and mega-malls.