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Dating culture · United Arab Emirates

Dating in the UAE: what newcomers should know

Updated October 2026

Dubai is one of the most international cities in the world, and most residents are expatriates from dozens of countries, so dating styles vary a lot. Modern dating is common: people meet on apps, through work, friends and hobbies, and first dates are usually coffee, dinner or a walk by the water. At the same time, the UAE is a Muslim country with clear laws on public behaviour, so dates happen in a calm, respectful and fairly private way. Respect for local customs, especially during Ramadan, matters to everyone.

How dating works here

  • Many people use dating apps, and plenty of couples meet through work, friends, sports clubs and community events.
  • First dates are usually coffee, dinner, a walk along the Marina or the Creek, or a weekend brunch.
  • Who pays varies by background; the person who invites often pays, and offering to split is always polite.
  • Public affection is kept to a minimum; even holding hands is best kept low-key, and kissing in public can lead to arrest.
  • Alcohol is served only in licensed venues, mostly in hotels and clubs, the legal drinking age is 21, and being drunk in public is an offence.
  • Many residents do not drink at all, and mocktails, karak tea and coffee dates are completely normal.
  • Modest dress is expected in malls, souks and public places; swimwear is only for beaches and pools.
  • During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, and evenings revolve around iftar and suhoor.
  • The working week runs Monday to Friday, with Friday afternoon and the weekend the busiest social times.
  • English is used everywhere, alongside Arabic and many other languages.
  • Evenings start late, especially in summer when people stay indoors until the heat drops.
  • Same-sex relationships are illegal and same-sex marriage is not recognised, so LGBTQ+ people are generally very discreet.

GO TO

  • Suggest a café, a walk at the beach or the Creek, or dinner in a busy public place for a first date.
  • Offer to split the bill or to pay next time.
  • Dress smartly and modestly; covering shoulders and knees in public places is the safe default.
  • Order a mocktail or karak if you don't drink; nobody will think twice.
  • Plan outdoor dates for the cooler months, roughly October to April, or for after sunset.
  • During Ramadan, choose an iftar or an evening plan after sunset, and keep daytime plans low-key.
  • Use the metro, a taxi or a ride-hailing app, and never drive after even one drink.
  • Ask before taking a photo of anyone, including your date in a crowded place.
  • Be punctual, polite and clear about what you are looking for.
  • Respect your date's religion, family expectations and boundaries.

NO GO

  • Do not kiss or show physical affection in public places; it can lead to arrest.
  • Do not drink in public places such as beaches or parks, and do not appear drunk in public.
  • Do not drink and drive; the UAE has zero tolerance.
  • Do not swear or make rude gestures, in person or online; both are criminal offences.
  • Do not photograph strangers without their permission.
  • Do not eat, drink, play loud music or dance in public during fasting hours in Ramadan.
  • Do not wear revealing clothes in malls, souks or religious sites.
  • Do not go anywhere near illegal drugs, and check rules before bringing in prescription medicine; penalties are severe.
  • Do not criticise the country, its rulers or religion, including on social media.
  • Do not send money to anyone you have only met online.

Safety

  • Call 999 for police and 998 for an ambulance; both are free from any phone.
  • Dubai is very safe, but still meet first dates in busy public places and tell a friend where you are going.
  • Do not accept drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended.
  • Be careful with online romance and investment scams; anyone who avoids video calls or asks for money is a red flag. Online fraud can be reported to Dubai Police through its e-Crime service.
  • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps late at night, and share your trip with a friend.
  • In the hot months, keep outdoor plans short, drink plenty of water and avoid the midday sun.
  • Emergency number: 999 (police), 998 (ambulance)

Questions and answers

What is dating like in the United Arab Emirates?

Dubai is one of the most international cities in the world, and most residents are expatriates from dozens of countries, so dating styles vary a lot. Modern dating is common: people meet on apps, through work, friends and hobbies, and first dates are usually coffee, dinner or a walk by the water. At the same time, the UAE is a Muslim country with clear laws on public behaviour, so dates happen in a calm, respectful and fairly private way. Respect for local customs, especially during Ramadan, matters to everyone.

What should you avoid on a date in the United Arab Emirates?

Do not kiss or show physical affection in public places; it can lead to arrest. Do not drink in public places such as beaches or parks, and do not appear drunk in public.

What makes a good impression on a date in the United Arab Emirates?

Suggest a café, a walk at the beach or the Creek, or dinner in a busy public place for a first date. Offer to split the bill or to pay next time.

How do you stay safe on a date in the United Arab Emirates?

Call 999 for police and 998 for an ambulance; both are free from any phone.

Every person is different. These are general patterns, not rules.

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