How Is Dubai Protected? (Correct answer)

  • Dubai has eight legally established protected areas covering 15.5 percent or 636 km2 of the territory. Dubai started designating protected areas in 1998 when the Ruler designated two coastal sanctuaries in Ras Al Khor and Jebel Ali.

Is Dubai protected?

Dubai has eight legally established protected areas covering 15.5 percent or 636 km2 of the territory. Development of a baseline for activities, infrastructure, business plans, regulations and standards is required for future development on both the protected area system and site levels.

Who protects Dubai?

The United Arab Emirates Armed Forces (Arabic: القوات المسلحة لدولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة, romanized: Al-Quwwāt al-Musallaḥa li-Dawlat al-ʾImārāt al-ʿArabīyyah al-Muttaḥidah) are the armed forces of the United Arab Emirates and have primary responsibility for the defence of all seven emirates.

Does the US protect Dubai?

The United States is the third country to establish formal diplomatic relations with the UAE and has had an ambassador resident in the UAE since 1974. The two countries have enjoyed friendly relations with each other and have developed strong government-to-government ties including a close security cooperation.

Is Dubai a secure country?

Dubai is a very safe city to travel to. Many say that the UAE is among the safest countries in the world. Overall, safety should not be an issue if you plan on traveling to UAE.

Is abortion legal in Dubai?

Abortion. According to the UAE law, it is a crime to abort a pregnancy unless: it endangers the woman’s life or. there is evidence that the baby will be born with fatal deformities and will not survive.

Is there slavery in Dubai?

In the past two decades, the city of Dubai has experienced exponential growth, made possible by vigorous foreign investment and its robust tourism industry. However, beneath the glossy visage of the city lies a foundation of pervasive human rights violations; primarily slavery.

How strong is Dubai military?

Today, UAE has emerged as the most developed military power in the Gulf region. Its military strength has approximately 59,000 in army, 2500 in the navy, and 4500 in the air force.

Which country has no army?

Andorra has no standing army but has signed treaties with Spain and France for its protection. Its small volunteer army is purely ceremonial in function. The paramilitary GIPA (trained in counter-terrorism and hostage management) is part of the national police.

Is Dubai safe to live?

Is it safe for Americans to live in Dubai? The answer is generally yes. The crime rates in Dubai are very low4, especially when it comes to acts of violent crime — although this can be hard to measure as the UAE does not publicise its criminal data. However, petty crime is common, just like in any big city.

Is Dubai for the rich?

Many people consider Dubai the richest country in the world. Its diverse economy makes Dubai one of the richest in the world. Unlike other states in the region, Dubai’s economy doesn’t rely on oil. The growth of its economy comes from business, transportation, tourism and finance.

Is Dubai the richest country in the world?

Dubai began shipping oil in 1969 and before gaining independence from Great Britain in 1971, when it became one of the UAE’s seven emirates. The UAE is the third-richest country in the world, below Luxembourg at number two and Qatar at number one, with a GDP per capita of $57,744.

What should I avoid in Dubai?

10 things you can’t do in Dubai

  • Cross-dressing.
  • Writing a cheque that bounces.
  • Sleeping with your partner.
  • Being gay.
  • Smoking electronic cigarettes.
  • Staying in a hotel if you’re under 18.
  • Being drunk.
  • Taking drugs.

Which is the safest country in UAE?

Tala Michel Issa, Al Arabiya English. The United Arab Emirates has been named the safest country for people to walk at night, a new international survey finds. The Gallup Global Law and Order 2021 report ranked the UAE as the number one country for walking at night safely after scoring 95 percent.

Is Dubai Safe For Travelers?

Photo courtesy of David Rodrigo on Unsplash The quick answer is that sure, it is possible. For Europeans, notably Americans, Dubai is a secure haven. Dubai is a Persian Gulf oasis that tourists have rated as one of the safest cities in the world in 2020; yet, it is vital for westerners to be informed of the country’s laws and conventions as well as its culture.

General safety in Dubai

Tourists can feel secure in Dubai, and there is little debate about that. Because Dubai is so well-policed, violent crime directed against visitors is extremely unusual. The majority of tourist-directed crime in Dubai is expected to be minor offenses such as pickpocketing, frauds, and sexual harassment, among other things. In addition, Dubai was remarkably unharmed by the epidemic, with just a few travel restrictions in place. Emirates Airlines maintains a nearly complete schedule of flights departing from the United States, and all that is required to fly is a negative COVID test.

Sharia law and prohibitions

Dubai is a strict adherent of Sharia (old Islamic religious law), which is followed strictly. There is minimal tolerance for same-sex relationships, and a wide range of typical acts are prohibited, including but not limited to:

  • Private sexual activity (including same-sex PDA)
  • Public inebriation
  • Possession of CBD-containing products
  • Immodest clothing, particularly for women (which can include bare arms, low necklines, and short shorts)
  • The use of foul language
  • The misuse of social media and/or the internet
  • Obnoxious hand gestures Evangelizing for a religious cause
  • Photographing individuals and government facilities without authorization
  • Criticizing the government

UAE authorities have stepped up their stringent enforcement of the regulations, imposing harsh punishments on individuals who are detained, ranging from heavy fines to prison sentences. Women and LGBTQ+ tourists may face more harsher penalties and less rights than other passengers. “Some victims of sexual assault have been prosecuted for breaking laws prohibiting sexual intercourse outside of marriage,” states travel.state.gov. ‘In circumstances where the victim has failed to show, both parties have been punished and, in some cases, sentenced to prison time followed by deportation.’ Photograph courtesy of Christoph Schulz via Unsplash.

Terrorism

There is also a persistent threat of terrorist action directed at specific targets such as:

  • Hotels and nightclubs catering to tourists
  • Sporting events
  • Schools
  • Shopping malls
  • Places of religion
  • And public transit

Hotels and nightclubs catering to tourists; sporting events; schools; shopping malls; places of worship; public transit

Pickpocketing and scams

When traveling by public transit, pickpocketing is very widespread, and internet frauds are not unheard of. The following are some of the most prevalent scams:

  • Payments for romance/online dating
  • Money transfers
  • Gold purchases
  • Lotterie tickets
  • Inheritance notices
  • Work permits/job offers
  • Bank overdrafts

Photograph courtesy of Christoph Schulz via Unsplash.

Climate

Dubai is a city in the Arabian Desert. Temperatures often approach 120 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity levels are quite high. Moreover, if you’re considering going swimming to cool down, be aware that the waters bordering the UAE are known for having rip currents that may take an unsuspecting swimmer out to sea.

Traffic and pedestrian safety

The rate of traffic accidents in Dubai is relatively high, primarily as a result of excessive speeding.

Pedestrians are also put at risk in this situation. Vehicles in Dubai frequently fail to come to a complete stop at pedestrian crossings.

Public transportation

The public transportation system in Dubai, as well as taxis and ride-sharing services, is typically safe. Make sure the driver’s name and identification number are clearly displayed in the rear; if you’re concerned, you may snap a picture of the information. Only use legal taxis, and never accept a trip from someone you don’t know. “Taxi customers should avoid riding in the front seat of a taxicab and should be attentive to the fact that’small conversation’ might be perceived as over-friendliness or even a form of propositioning by certain taxi drivers,” according to the State Department.

The pink tops of these special cars help female visitors to recognize them,” says the author.

Women travelers in Dubai

It is typically safe for women to travel to Dubai, even if they are traveling alone. However, it is critical to remember the following:

  • Dress modestly
  • Congregate in groups or couples (particularly after dark)
  • And use caution. Men should not be addressed directly in the eyes. Avoid going to places like pubs, clubs, or hotels where prostitutes may be present. Never take drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended
  • This includes alcoholic beverages.

Tips for staying safe in Dubai

With all of this in mind, you might conclude that Dubai is a dangerous place to visit – but you’d be mistaken. The United Arab Emirates are extremely secure for the majority of travelers in the majority of conditions. as long as you remain within the country’s borders. There’s no shortage of intriguing and attractive areas to explore in the city of Philadelphia. According to GeoSure’s Michael Becker, safe neighborhoods and tourist attractions in Dubai include the following locations:

  • The 11-mile-long Jemeirah Beach
  • The Madinat Jumeirah Souk (market)
  • Discovery Gardens
  • Palm Island
  • The Dubai Mall (with its aquarium)
  • The Mall of the Emirates (with its famed indoor ski slopes)
  • The Old Quarter
  • And the Green Plane are just a few of the attractions.

What should you do if you’re visiting these areas, as well as many more in Dubai, to ensure your safety? The following are the recommendations of experts: Photo courtesy of Dovi on Unsplash.

1. Know the laws and follow them

That which is true in this case is also true in other heavily policed places such as Singapore: If you are accused of breaching the law, your claim of ignorance will not be accepted as an excuse. The greatest thing you can do before visiting Dubai is to look at the traveler information website for the United Arab Emirates on travel.state.gov, which has useful information on the country. That will provide you with the most thorough overview of the rules in Dubai that impact tourists, as well as information on what can happen to you if you breach the law.

It actually isn’t that difficult.

You’re going to have a terrific time.

2. Dress modestly and observe other local customs

One of the most difficult edicts for some visitors to fulfill is the dress code. This is especially true if they are traveling to numerous nations during the height of summer’s heat. Extra clothes for a single location may be inconvenient to bring for a number of reasons. Making the right choices with your accessories is essential for looking smart, fashionable, and acceptable in Dubai. For males, bring a long-sleeved shirt and long pants, preferably made of a lightweight fabric; for ladies, bring a maxi-dress, scarf or shawl, and a long-sleeved shirt made of a lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as silk or linen.

In addition to dressing appropriately, follow local customs when it comes to things like looking strangers at the eyes and being polite in or around religious buildings such as mosques and temples. Photo courtesy of Unsplash user Partha Narasimhan.

3. Hang on tight to your possessions

A pickpocket or another type of small thief is the most probable perpetrator of a crime against you in Dubai, and you should be prepared to be one. As you would expect in the majority of countries:

  • Carry a backpack with straps that are cut-resistant
  • When on public transit or waiting in line, keep your backpack at the front of your body. Carry a bag across your body over your shoulder
  • Make sure you don’t leave your baggage unattended or on the back of a chair. Place valuables and vital documents in a safe location.

4. Keep your lens cap on

Carry a backpack with straps that are resistant to being cut. When riding public transit or waiting in line, keep your backpack at the front. Carry a bag across your torso on your left shoulder. Make sure you don’t leave your baggage unattended or on the back of a chair; Values and significant papers should be placed in a safe place.

5. Be super-alcohol-smart

In most nations, being alcohol wise implies drinking in moderation, keeping an eye out for drink-spiking, and refraining from driving after consuming alcoholic beverages. For residents of Dubai, this includes not being openly inebriated and not consuming alcohol outside of clearly defined locations — as well as being aware that violating the law would result in severe fines. Make no mistake about it: Dubai boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that can get very rowdy at times. When you leave the club, though, you must return to a respectable and sober state of mind.

6. Walk carefully

In Dubai, the pedestrian is certainly not king of the hill. Crossing roadways should be approached with caution, as speeding is widespread and crosswalks are only suggestions at best. As a city for walkers, Dubai is comparable to places such as Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Orlando — a city that is walkable within and around its perimeter, but not one of the world’s most walkable cities. If you’re a frequent stroller, be selective about where you go.

7. Travel in groups at night

Women, in particular, should avoid walking the streets alone late into the evening. The ability to travel in a group allows you to avoid eye contact with strangers, conceal symptoms of drunkenness, and generally stay safer.

8. Watch yourself around ATMs

ATM “skimming” and PIN number snatching are undoubtedly a phenomenon in Dubai, according to the police. While it is not necessary to carry a large amount of dirhams in Dubai, there are times when it may be necessary to use an ATM. For those instances, stick to the hotel ATM, take a few steps back and glance around before entering your PIN, and cover the keyboard with your palm before inputting digits. Photo courtesy of David Rodrigo through Unsplash.

9. Consider a different destination

It’s not often that we propose anything like this, but if you’re an LGBTQ+ people hoping for a warm welcome in Dubai, you should be aware that it may not be available (though five-star hotels and upscale restaurants are generally discreet and more tolerant of same-sex couples). If you enjoy using personal digital assistants (PDAs), you may be better served by traveling to a new location. Other than that, it appears that keeping questions of sexual orientation under wraps is the wisest course of action in Dubai.

10. Buy travel insurance

If you are forced to cancel or stop your trip to Dubai due to a covered cause, travel insurance may be able to repay you for any expenditures you have already paid for.

Additionally, travel insurance may be beneficial in the following situations:

  • The loss of a passport or other crucial documents
  • A medical emergency
  • Medical evacuation Luggage that has been lost, damaged, or stolen

Travel insurance should be considered an absolute must for any trip to the United Arab Emirates – and you can begin the process by requesting a travel insurance quotation online.

Is Dubai Safe? Warnings and Dangers Travelers Need to Know

Emirates (UAE) is a spectacular Middle Eastern city with soaring skyscrapers and modern architecture, as well as unabashed oil wealth, decked-out hotel rooms, elaborate shopping centers selling decadent luxuries, and sprawling beaches. Dubai is the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and it is the largest city in the country. Is it, however, a safe place to visit? In general, visiting Dubai is a risk-free endeavor. As a result of the fact that Dubai is a carefully monitored city, travelers are not overly concerned about person-on-person crime.

Petty crime is a greater source of worry, particularly pickpocketing, frauds, and sexual harassment, however firearms are practically never used in these incidents.

Showing public affection (especially between unmarried or homosexual partners), drinking in public, dressing immodestly, swearing in public, making rude gestures, photographing people without their permission, holding Israeli citizenship, criticizing the UAE’s government, soliciting escorts in Dubai, and many other activities are prohibited in Dubai.

Besides minor crime and rigorous laws and punishments, other dangers that visitors to Dubai should be aware of include the possibility of terrorism and the high heat of the desert.

Tips for Staying Safe in Dubai

  • Understand the rules and abide by them. A strong emphasis on this subject cannot be overstated in Dubai, where the laws are far more conservative than those of any other Western country. When visiting Dubai, it is fairly rare for visitors to be arrested, imprisoned, or otherwise held for engaging in behavior that is perfectly legal and acceptable in their own country. Although there aren’t many hazardous districts in Dubai, it’s a good idea to be on the lookout for the city’s normal threats, which include pickpockets, aggressive drivers, the threat of terrorism, and severe heat. Dressing conservatively and modestly when traveling to Dubai is recommended for women in order to avoid harassment while also showing respect for local customs and traditions. Tourists who are female should additionally adhere to certain safety precautions, which are detailed below.

Top Travel Safety Products for Dubai

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, you should be aware of the best places to visit and which places to avoid. Go to Jemeirah Beach, which is 11 miles long and a tremendously famous tourist destination for good reason. However, while you’re there, be on the lookout for pickpockets, as the area is a popular target for tiny criminals who prey on visitors. It is not recommended to leave any valuables unattended on any of Dubai’s beaches, even for a little period of time. Visit Sonapur, the migrant labor camp on the outskirts of Dubai, where thousands of South Asian laborers are attempting to endure the heat and abuse in slave-like circumstances.

  1. Sonapur is a risky site to visit for visitors because of the terrible poverty that exists here, which should not be overlooked.
  2. Motor City was named “the finest neighborhood to live in” by residents of Dubai, in part because of its high level of safety.
  3. Locals are less enthusiastic about Dubailand, which is still mostly under construction and is located in a remote location.
  4. And if you’re intending on visiting the souk, keep a close eye out for pickpockets.

Besides the Old Quarter and Green Plane (a domed tropical habitat), there are other more tourist sites that are highly watched and secured, resulting in virtually no crime at all.

How to Get Around Safely in Dubai

As previously said, there is no need to be concerned about violent crime in Dubai. Driving, on the other hand, is a different matter. The rate of traffic accidents in Dubai is far greater than in the rest of the world, and the World Health Organization claims that if you’re on the road in the UAE, you’re about seven times more likely to be killed than if you’re on the road in the rest of the world. This high percentage of road fatalities is due in part to the fact that speeding is quite widespread.

Remember to utilize authorized pedestrian crossings if you must cross a road; failing to do so may result in punishment; nevertheless, bear in mind that motorists in Dubai are notorious for failing to stop at marked pedestrian crossings.

Taxis and ride-sharing services are likewise relatively safe, at least in most cases.

Only licensed taxis or other recognized modes of public transportation should be used, and never accept a trip from a complete stranger.

Dubai ATM Scam Warning

A last word of caution for anyone traveling to or staying in Dubai: fraudsters have been known to install skimming devices to public ATM machines in order to steal both personal information and money. Remember to only use ATMs that are located inside banks or well-known hotels everywhere you go in the United Arab Emirates.

Traveler Behavior and the Law in Dubai

You run the greatest danger of being arrested or imprisoned in Dubai if you do not know or respect the Sharia-inspired regulations, which has resulted in the imprisonment of misinformed visitors who have no means to return home. Understand Dubai’s strict rules, which prohibit drinking wine, using coarse language, making aggressive gestures, taking someone’s picture without their permission, photographing government buildings, possessing certain prescription medications, kissing in public, and a long list of other undesirable behaviors, among other things.

Women Travelers in Dubai

It is not knowing or following the Sharia-inspired legislation that poses the greatest risk while attempting to keep safe in Dubai; uneducated foreigners have ended up in prison with no option to return home. Take a look at Dubai’s strict rules, which include prohibitions on drinking wine and using foul language or aggressive gestures, photographing people without their permission, photographing government buildings, possessing certain prescription medications, kissing in public, being homosexual, and a long list of other unacceptable behaviors.

Nature-Related Risks in Dubai

The fact that Dubai is a very hot location, with temperatures that sometimes approach 122° Fahrenheit, especially between May and September, is another item to take in mind while planning your trip there. Avoid the harsh sun as much as possible while in Dubai, drink plenty of fluids, and make sure you’re wearing adequate quantities of sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats when you’re out exploring the city. If you don’t, you run the danger of suffering from heat stroke or exhaustion.

In addition to sandstorms, violent thunderstorms, and ocean rip currents, which have been known to sweep swimmers out to sea, there are other natural hazards in Dubai. Pay heed to warning signs such as real red flags, and only swim at designated beaches.

Threat of Terrorism in Dubai

Terrorism is a genuine risk in our country, to put it mildly. Recently, missiles fired from Yemen over the Arabian Peninsula and into Dubai have been intercepted, albeit several civilians have been killed. As a result, the United States Department of State deems Dubai to be a medium-risk terrorism threat site for Americans and other Westerners. Because of the UAE’s closeness to nations that are hostile to Westerners, as well as its prominence as a major vacation destination, there is a risk of a terrorist attack against Westerners taking place in Dubai in the future.

Likewise, the United States State Department advises Americans to “keep a low profile, travel on a variety of routes and at different times for all necessary travel, and treat letters and shipments from unexpected sources with caution.” For any reason that you may require the assistance of the police or emergency responders in Dubai, the phone numbers vary depending on the situation: in the case of a fire, dial 997; to report a crime, dial 998; and for emergency medical services, dial 999 and immediately ask to speak to an English-speaking operator.

More from SmarterTravel:

  • In this article: Dubai Travel Guide
  • Four Places in the Middle East You Didn’t Know You Needed to Visit in the Middle East Photographs that are both inspiring and informative from the Middle East and North Africa

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Is It Safe to Travel to Dubai?

When it comes to crime, Dubai is one of the safest places to visit in the whole Middle East. The capital of the United Arab Emirates and the country’s largest city, Dubai, is a significant tourist and commercial destination as well as one of the world’s fastest-growing destinations for foreign tourists. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are rare forms of street crime in Dubai, and owing to the presence of security and surveillance cameras, you’ll feel comfortable utilizing public transportation and roaming about most sections of the city at any time of day or night in the city.

Dubai has tight restrictions regulating the use of alcoholic beverages, the wearing of clothing, sexual activity, and social behavior in general.

Making a mistake because you aren’t aware of a rule is no justification for breaking it, so be sure you are familiar with at least the most prevalent violations before going off.

Travel Advisories

  • Because to COVID-19, the United States Department of State has issued a global travel warning, advising people to avoid any overseas travel for the foreseeable future. In the weeks leading up to COVID-19, the State Department recommended visitors to “take standard care” when visiting the United Arab Emirates, the lowest level of travel warning.

Is Dubai Dangerous?

Dubai boasts some of the lowest crime rates of any city in the world, including both violent and non-violent crimes, and is consistently regarded as one of the safest locations in the world to live and work. Even little theft, such as pickpocketing, is extremely rare in Dubai, while violent crime is nearly non-existent in the city. Foreigners going to Dubai, and the United Arab Emirates in general, face the greatest danger of unintentionally infringing one of the country’s severe rules. Many acts that many Western travelers would never consider illegal are severely punished in Dubai, including drinking alcohol without a permit, holding hands, sharing a room with someone of the opposite sex other than your spouse, taking pictures of other people, using offensive language or gestures, and posting unapproved content on social media.

For example, bars will sell you alcoholic beverages even if you don’t have a permit, hotels will give rooms to couples without asking for a marriage license, and travelers will take selfies with other people in the background.

A close plainclothes police officer or an enraged someone who reports you can rapidly convert your minor error into a criminal act that you must face criminal prosecution for.

Is Dubai Safe for Solo Travelers?

For both violent and non-violent crimes, Dubai boasts among of the lowest crime rates of any city in the world. The city is consistently listed as one of the safest places to live in the world. It is practically impossible to commit tiny thefts such as pickpocketing in Dubai, while violent crimes are virtually non-existent. It is unintentionally infringing one of the country’s severe rules that poses the greatest danger to foreigners visiting to Dubai and the UAE in general. Activities that many Western travelers would never consider illegal in Dubai, such as drinking alcohol without a permit, holding hands with someone who is not your spouse, taking pictures of other people, using offensive language or gestures, and posting on social media without permission are all punishable by law in Dubai.

For example, bars will sell you a drink even if you don’t have a permit, hotels will give rooms to couples without asking for a marriage license, and travelers will take selfies with other people in the background.

Unseen plainclothes police officers or a disgruntled citizen who calls the authorities might swiftly convert your minor error into a criminal infraction.

Is Dubai Safe for Female Travelers?

In addition, the tight restrictions around sexual activity, as well as the conservative culture, make Dubai a very safe destination for female tourists. Women are encouraged to dress modestly and cover the most of their body parts (with the exception of when they are at the beach), and even catcalling is uncommon on the streets of Duba, according to locals. Moreover, while sexual assaults are extremely rare in Abu Dhabi, the UAE judicial system has the ability to penalize both the victim and the perpetrator, leaving victims with no recourse.

Many human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, advise victims not to disclose sexual assaults to local authorities because of the possibility of retaliation.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Despite the fact that Dubai is a big cosmopolitan metropolis, the United Arab Emirates has some of the strongest laws in the world when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. Furthermore, just because Dubai is a large cosmopolitan city does not imply that it is more progressive than other regions of the nation. All sorts of same-sex actions are banned and punishable by fines, imprisonment, deportation, whipping, or death, while the most severe penalties are mainly reserved for Muslim defendants and when combined with other offenses, such as adultery, to create the most severe penalties.

Visitors who identify as transgender upon arrival in Dubai have been stopped and questioned by airport security for failing to get their gender recognized by local authorities, and some have even been deported back to their home countries.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

A remarkable diversity and cosmopolitan metropolis, Dubai attracts individuals from all over the globe to live and work there. In reality, the foreign-born population of the Emirate of Dubai accounts for around 85 percent of the total population, which is far more than the number of native Emiratis living there. It is true that discrimination does occur in Dubai, despite its cosmopolitan nature. Foreign residents and visitors, however, are more likely to encounter it on the basis of nationality than than skin color.

The arbitrariness of the law in Dubai can be applied to anybody without regard to their nationality, however residents from non-Western countries may face more difficulties if they are found doing something unlawful.

Safety Tips for Travelers

  • Non-Muslims are permitted to consume alcoholic beverages in Dubai, provided that they do so in a licensed establishment (which are typically attached to a hotel). In the event that you are found to be under the influence of alcohol or creating a disturbance in public, you may be arrested and sentenced to prison. When it comes to driving in Dubai, the official legal limit for alcohol consumption is zero—there is no wiggle room here, so don’t get behind the wheel even if you’ve had one drink. Public kissing and holding hands is considered “inappropriate conduct,” so keep it clean while you’re out. Similarly, any sexual relationship between unmarried couples is prohibited. Inappropriate words or hostile hand gestures are prohibited at all times, even while driving. It is against the law in the UAE to make defamatory claims or derogatory comments about individuals or organizations, so be mindful of your wording while posting on social media platforms, especially review websites. Despite the fact that Dubai is a conservative city all year round, it becomes much more so during the month of Ramadan. The consumption of food and beverages in public places during daylight hours is prohibited throughout this period (some restaurants and shopping malls have curtained areas for non-Muslims to dine in during Ramadan). If possible, avoid playing loud music, and dress in a modest manner.

TripSavvy relies on only high-quality, reputable sources, such as peer-reviewed research, to substantiate the information contained in our articles. Read our editorial policy to find out more about how we ensure that our material is accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. “UAE 2020 CrimeSafety Report: Dubai,” according to OSAC.gov. Department of State, United States, retrieved on December 22, 2020. ” Global Health Advisory ” is an abbreviation for Global Health Advisory. The deadline is March 31, 2020. The United States Department of State has updated its information on December 22, 2020. UAE is an acronym for United Arab Emirates. The Economist published a report titled “Safe Cities Index 2019” on May 17, 2019. The Khaleej Times published an article on August 5, 2019. “Catcalling, gazing at women, and receiving a hefty fine in the United Arab Emirates.” Human Dignity Trust. “United Arab Emirates.” Retrieved on December 22, 2020
  2. Human Rights Watch. ” World Report 2020.” 2020
  3. Human Dignity Trust. “United Arab Emirates.” NBC News was able to obtain this information on December 22, 2020. “The United Arab Emirates detains a transgender traveler and a buddy because of their appearance.” The 24th of August, 2017. Human Dignity Trust. “HDT – Injustice Exposed – The Criminalisation of Transgender People and Its Impacts.” Retrieved December 22, 2020
  4. Human Dignity Trust. “HDT – Injustice Exposed – The Criminalisation of Transgender People and Its Impacts.” Global Media Insight provided the information on December 22, 2020. “UAE Population Statistics 2020 (Infographics).” “UAE Population Statistics 2020 (Infographics).” The date is July 7, 2020. December 22, 2020
  5. Retrieved on December 22, 2020

Thank you for informing us about this!

Maintaining safety and security – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

The government has started a number of steps to protect its infrastructure, keeping in mind the global security issues and advancements that have occurred in recent years. These are some examples: Hedayah Islamic Center The Hedayah Centre (Arabic for guidance) was established by the UAE government in December 2012 with the goal of countering violent extremism by encouraging knowledge and sharing of best practices for the benefit of the entire world. The Safety and Security Planning Manual for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi TheAbu Dhabi Urban Planning Council published theAbu Dhabi Safety and Security Planning Manual(SSPM) in order to establish safe, secure, and sustainable communities by ensuring that safety and security considerations are included into development projects throughout the city.

  • Changing the built environment is the primary goal of the guidebook, with the secondary goal of reducing crimes against people.
  • This strategy and measure package covers strategies and measures that aim to lower the likelihood of crimes happening as well as their potentially damaging consequences for individuals and society by acting in the many influencing factors/causes that contribute to crime.
  • The Higher Committee for the Management of Crises and Terrorist Acts (HCCTAM) The Higher Committee for the Management of Crises and Terrorist Acts was founded by the emirate of Abu Dhabi (HCCTAM).
  • This approach is organized around a set of work streams, one of which is the preservation of intellectual property rights.

The approach aims to strengthen the UAE’s ability to withstand terrorist assaults in the future. In the Abu Dhabi Safety and Security Planning Manual, you may learn more about the city’s initiatives to improve safety in the community. Links that may be of assistance:

  • The National reports that the Sawab Centre has launched an online campaign to celebrate women’s achievements. The UAE Embassy in the United States has launched the Sawab Center, a new digital communications hub dedicated to countering terrorist propaganda. The United Arab Emirates is a world leader in counter-terrorism efforts. – The National, a newspaper in the United Kingdom.

Face Recognition for Community Protection is a new effort. The Ministry of Interior of the United Arab Emirates has installed a facial recognition system that uses modern technology to defend the country’s borders, critical infrastructure, and strategic assets, among other things. Individual faces are scanned by the system’s biometric software, which analyzes and identifies them based on their features. It captures images of people’s faces with the use of sensitive cameras. The cameras are capable of scanning and capturing photos of persons who are standing close to or far away from the camera, as well as those who are moving or standing stationary.

When it comes to countering extremism, the UAE Government advises blocking suspicious funding, disrupting foreign fighter recruiting, safeguarding borders, preventing the exploitation of the internet and social media, and disputing the use of religious institutions to promote hatred and violence.

Making the proper decision is referred to as Sawab in Arabic language.

Links that are useful

  • The UAE has been hailed for its anti-terror efforts in a US study, according to The National
  • The UAE will pay Dh1.8 million to the United Nations Women to aid in the battle against extremism, according to The National
  • UAE is a leader in counter-terrorism efforts, according to The National
  • UAE Counterterrorism | UAE Embassy in Washington, DC- UAE Embassy in the United States
  • Sheikh Khalifa approves anti-terrorism legislation, according to The National
  • UAE pledges to cooperate with the United Nations to address human rights issues around the world, according to WAM
  • GCC to establish regional police force based in Abu Dhabi, according to WAM
  • UAE to establish regional police force based in Abu Dhabi, according to WAM
  • UAE to establish – The National, a newspaper in the United Kingdom.

Laws to protect national security

Terrorism legislation at the federal level Earlier this year, the UAE passed the Anti-Terrorism Law (Gulf News), which includes harsh penalties for activities associated with extremism. Terrorists are defined by the law as those who engage in any criminal activity that has the potential to result in acts of terrorism, whether directly or indirectly. In addition to covering new areas like as human trafficking, the law also provides guidance centers to rehabilitate people who have been exposed to extremism and help them reintegrate into society.

Federal legislation against hate and prejudice The Federal Decree Law No.

It makes it unlawful to discriminate against individuals or groups on the basis of their religion, caste, creed, race, color, or ethnic origin, among other things.

Individuals engaging in any action that breaches the law are encouraged to voluntarily surrender themselves to the police, with provisions allowing the courts to waive fines in such situations.

Learn more about tolerance in the United Arab Emirates. For further information on the law, please see the following links:

  • Gulf News reports on the UAE’s anti-hate law
  • The National reports on the UAE’s anti-discrimination statute.

Training in safety

The United Arab Emirates created a large number of safety-training institutes around the country to prepare and teach prospective leaders and civilian officials, as well as to increase their abilities in recognizing and analyzing threats to national, regional, and global security. These organizations are as follows:

  • The National Security Institute (NSI)
  • The Rabdan Academy
  • And other institutions

Security systems

The Ministry of Interior makes use of the most up-to-date technology to ensure security and increase productivity in police operations. Some of them are as follows: The ‘Falcon Eye’ systemThe Abu Dhabi police force makes use of a comprehensive central system known as the falcon eye system. It includes the whole city of Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi International Airport, the major islands, and the communities of Bani Yas and Musaffah, among other things. Visual surveillance equipment put on site feeds data into the system, which displays it in an integrated system that offers alerts and allows for easy access to events and occurrences.

  1. The Abu Dhabi Police Department uses an IRIS system.
  2. According to this method, the random patterns visible in a person’s eye are subjected to mathematical analysis in order to determine the identity of the individual (iris recognition).
  3. Miniature police vehicles that operate without a driver The Dubai Police Department is exploring the introduction of autonomous, self-driving vehicles.
  4. The autonomous cars will patrol various locations of the city, including tourist hotspots, to increase security and look for strange behaviour, while also scanning crowds for known offenders and prospective individuals of interest to the police department.
  5. Police officers can get entry to the vehicle by scanning their fingerprints.
  6. Bikes that fly Hoversurf, a model of a floating motorcycle exhibited by the Dubai Police in October 2017, is the first of its kind in the world.
  7. However, it is also capable of flying by remote control.
  8. Hoversurf is powered by electricity and has a maximum flying height of five metres.

This capability comes in handy in emergency situations and when there is a lot of traffic. The flying bike has a range of up to 6 kilometers and can go at high speeds. It has a flight time of 25 minutes and can carry up to 300 kg of weight at a speed of 70 kmph. It has a maximum payload of 300 kg.

Engaging public in maintaining security

As the UAE Government recognizes, the security of the nation is a common duty, and that everyone may play a role in achieving security and avoiding crime, they are urging people to do so. As a result, it established a number of security services and channels that allow individuals to connect with one another and report any suspicious or damaging occurrences to the appropriate authorities. Some of them are as follows:

  • Call 999 to report crimes and emergencies when traveling anywhere in the United Arab Emirates.

Individuals in Abu Dhabi can report any security concerns they have using the Amanelectronic system. It is used to aid security authorities in averting precisely planned crimes and identifying and apprehending perpetrators. Individuals in Abu Dhabi can report any security issues they have using the Amanelectronic system. It is used to aid law enforcement and security services in stopping particularly planned crimes and identifying offenders.

  • The presence of blacksmith shops where minors may purchase knives
  • The receiving of bogus text messages by mobile phone subscribers

The Najeed service was launched by the Sharjah Police Department. You can use this service to report information and tip-offs about crimes or other risks that could jeopardize the social stability of a community. My security is the security of my next-door neighbor. is a program for inhabitants of villas and residences in Sharjah that encourages them to report any unusual movement or activity in their neighborhood in order to help prevent crime from occurring. On the 1st of November, 2021, a new version was released.

The Official Portal of the UAE Government

In order to benchmark and track the development of their biodiversity conservation efforts, cities can use the City Biodiversity Index, which is a self-assessment tool. The Abu Dhabi City Biodiversity Index will assist the emirate in achieving the following goals:

  • Compare and contrast the effectiveness of the country’s biodiversity conservation initiatives
  • Assess progress in slowing the pace of biodiversity loss in urban ecosystems
  • And calculate the ecological footprint of cities.

Cities will utilize this index as a benchmark for further advances in the role of cities, such as Abu Dhabi, in playing a worldwide role in promoting and preserving biodiversity, as well as for enhancing the role of cities in promoting and conserving biodiversity. On WAM, you may find connected news coverage.

Preserving plants’ species

Gheras The United Arab Emirates produced a database of indigenous plant species and made it available to the public in order to conserve its biodiversity and safeguard and restore the natural habitats of its native plants. Gherasuae is a mobile application that is accessible on the App Store and Google Play. Using DNA profiling, the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment completed the first phase of its date palm tree identification project in 2014. The project was carried out in partnership with the UAE University.

As part of this effort, it will create a reference database for all of the different palm tree species present in the United Arab Emirates and will identify and describe the breadth of their variety.

In addition, a slew of projects to conserve the UAE’s plant species have been started, including the construction of “gene” banks for the conservation of plant genetic resources.

With the establishment of the center, the goal is to collect and document native plants so that, should any species go extinct in the wild, it may be propagated in captivity and reintroduced back into the wild.

The other project is being carried out at the University of the Arab Emirates in partnership with the Khalifa Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (KCGEB). Obtainable from:

  • (Arabic) State of the Environment Report 2020 (Ministry of Climate Change and Environment)
  • How to contribute to the preservation of marine biodiversity in the United Arab Emirates (PDF, 4 MB) – Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group (ADG). Environment and agriculture in the United Arab Emirates Is the official webpage of the Abu Dhabi Government
  • Environment and agricultural in the United Arab Emirates Five UAE sites have been recognised as being of world biological and ecological significance: WAM
  • UAE Green Economy Report 2014 (PDF, 20 MB)
  • The Environmental Atlas of Abu Dhabi Emirate
  • And the Abu Dhabi Biodiversity and Ecosystem Atlas.

Sea dumping and pollution

Environmental concerns have been raised about the disposal of rubbish in the water, which is potentially life-threatening to the marine ecology in the region. Working in collaboration with its partners in the public and private sectors, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MCCE) continues to strive for greater protection of the marine and coastal environment as well as the preservation of its critical role in society by implementing the principles of integrated marine and coastal environment management.

The following are prohibited under Federal Law No.

  • Any purposeful discharge of pollutants or wastes into the maritime environment from ships, airplanes, or any other mode of transportation
  • Any intentional discharge into the maritime environment by ships, industrial sites, or other sources

Aside from that, the Federal Law No. 23 of 1999 (PDF, 450KB) and its Ministerial Decree No. 302 of 2001 (PDF, 450KB) were issued to handle the exploitation, protection, and development of live aquatic resources in the United Arab Emirates. Learn how the United Arab Emirates conserves and uses oceans, seas, and marine resources for the sake of sustainable development. Links that are useful

  • Aside from that, the Federal Law No. 23 of 1999 (PDF, 450KB) and its Ministerial Decree No. 302 of 2001 (PDF, 450KB) were both issued to address the exploitation, protection, and development of live aquatic resources in the United Arab Emirates. Learn more about how the United Arab Emirates conserves and sustainably uses the oceans, seas, and marine resources for the benefit of all. Link resources that are beneficial.

Reducing the use of plastic

An initiative by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to minimize the quantity of single-use plastic material in Abu Dhabi and ameliorate its detrimental consequences was unveiled this week. The strategy intends to keep plastics out of the environment and eradicate the use of unnecessary single-use plastic materials by 2021 by promoting a culture of recycling and re-use in the community and encouraging more environmentally friendly activities in the workplace and at home. The new regulation will see Abu Dhabi free of single-use plastic bags by 2021, thanks to the efforts of the EAD.

  • WAM reports that the Environment Agency intends to declare Abu Dhabi free of single-use plastic bags by 2021.

Nature reserves

The United Arab Emirates is dedicated to maintaining and managing the state’s unique biodiversity in order to avoid the extinction of endangered species. The establishment of natural reserves aims to enhance the environment and safeguard species in the country, as well as to promote eco-tourism in the country. By 2020, there will be 49 nature reserves in the United Arab Emirates. The number of nature reserves that have been designated as wetlands of international significance under the Ramsar Convention has climbed from two in 2010 to ten in 2019.

Environmental regulations and policies

In the United Arab Emirates, environmental protection is considered to be the primary goal of development policies, which include increasing green space, developing water resources, improving the marine environment and protecting it from pollution, preserving fisheries and livestock, and developing strategies to protect biodiversity. The United Arab Emirates has established a corpus of regulations to maintain a healthy and sustainable environment for human beings. It has passed a slew of environmental legislation to protect the environment.

Check out the regulations and policies from the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency as well.

By joining and ratifying environmental accords, the United Arab Emirates joined the rest of the world in acknowledging the existence of environmental challenges. Learn more about the international and regional environmental treaties that the United Arab Emirates has signed.

Environmental awareness

Aims of environmental awareness include building society’s environmental culture and encouraging environmentally conscious behavior among people, both of which contribute to the conservation and proper management of natural resources. Environmental education programs are organized at the emirate or federal level by the entities responsible for environmental protection in collaboration with the appropriate federal agency. The sort of campaign and the slogans used in these efforts are determined by the demands of the UAE’s community in the areas of environmental education and awareness.

To this end, attempts have been made to include environmental information into school curriculum and textbooks, among other things.

It was announced that the Eco-Schools Initiative will be created as part of the engagement of global stakeholders in the wheel of fostering environmental awareness.

The campaign is being spearheaded by the Emirates Wildlife Society.

  • Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi provides educational and awareness materials. FAQs about the environment courtesy of the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency
  • Environmental conservation in Abu Dhabi courtesy of the Abu Dhabi Government webpage
  • National Environment Day is observed by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment on June 5. Events related to the environment scheduled at the local, regional, and global levels by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment

The most recent update was made on July 7, 2021.

Dubai International Finance Centre’s data protection law to be boosted by new federal regulation

Published at 11:46 a.m. on September 27, 2021. Companies in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) have been forced to comply with the Data Protection Law No. 5 for one year, and now a new United Arab Emirates (UAE)-wide rule is on the horizon. Organizations have been given until October 2020 to ensure compliance with the new regulation, which became effective in July 2020 and replaced DIFC Data Protection Law No. 1 of 2007. It aims to make international data transfers easier by aligning organizations that handle data within the DIFC with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe.

  • Traditionally, free zones have been established to encourage certain industries, such as media and banking, and have been granted the authority to adopt its own regulations, which are often pro-business in nature.
  • The DIFC is more than simply a vast community of banks and financial businesses; it is also a dynamic commercial center where enterprises from a wide variety of industries have a base of operations.
  • Companies formed abroad but processing personal data in the DIFC on a regular basis are also subject to the DPL 2020.
  • Not surprisingly, the regulation is remarkably similar to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), with the same data protection principles and rights for data subjects, in addition to transparency and governance duties.
  • Because the DPO position is protected, officers cannot be fired or penalized for carrying out their responsibilities.
  • Businesses may also be forced to pay compensation directly to data subjects, with the amount of compensation being unconstrained by any restriction.
  • Jack Rossiter, an attorney with international law firm SimmonsSimmons at Dubai International Financial Center’s DIFC office, predicted that the Commissioner will adopt a “pretty pro-business posture” on compliance.
  • “As with any new law, there is a strong emphasis on education and public awareness,” said Rossiter.

The novelty aspect is reasonable given that the Middle East does not have the same history of individual rights that the GDPR was born out of.” As part of his efforts to raise awareness and support good practices, the Commissioner has taken a highly proactive approach.” Data transfers to the free zone have not been as straightforward as anticipated.

  1. Data Protection Commissioners can examine the laws of other countries and the manner in which they are enforced in order to determine whether or not those other countries provide adequate levels of data protection.
  2. The impact of an adequacy judgment by the EU Commissioner, for example, is that personal data can be transferred from the EU to the other nation without the need for additional protections, just as if the transfer were taking place inside the EU.
  3. However, despite the fact that the DIFC believes the level of protection in all EU nations is acceptable, the EU has not even examined the DIFC for an adequacy determination thus far.
  4. As Henein explains, “Traditionally, the EU assesses the suitability of entire countries.” “While the European Commission may reject an application for the DIFC, it is more likely to accept an application for the UAE as a whole,” says the author.
  5. The fact that both London and Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) are global financial centers has created an incentive for the United Kingdom to move more swiftly.
  6. Regarding the DIFC’s assessment of the United Kingdom as sufficient, that favorable determination was made prior to the August statement.
  7. In the end, no one has ever accused the United Arab Emirates of lacking financial acumen.

I expect the federal law to be a softer version of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and this might very well put the UAE as a whole on the path to receiving an adequacy judgment from the EU, according to Henein. Learn more about the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Next Steps

Senators want the Federal Trade Commission to establish a national data security standard.

Read more on Privacy and data protection

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