Dubai bans nudity, dancing and holding hands

Playing loud music, dancing, nudity, kissing and even holding hands in public is considered inapproppriate behaviour under new guidelines laid down by the authorities of Dubai.

The Dubai Executive Council had urged residents of Dubai, where foreigners make up more than 80 per cent of the population, to respect the customs of the Muslim majority country and avoid inappropriate behaviour.



The rules, which apply to all public places, include a ban on all forms of nudity, playing music loudly and dancing, exchange of kisses between men and women - and even on unmarried couples holding hands. Any breach of the guidelines, by nationals or expatriates, carries a possible prison penalty.

The guidelines also stipulate that anyone caught under the influence of alcohol - even small amounts - outside designated drinking areas is liable to being fined or imprisoned.