Although considered very liberal when put into context compared to other places in the Middle East, Dubai still maintains conservative dress codes. Any clothes that are somewhat transparent, low-cut, or short should be left at home, it is absolutely imperative for women that the stomach, shoulders, and back are completely covered when in public. Men must cover their chest, and all underwear should be out of sight. Such rules are more relaxed when it comes to the beach and at swimming pools owned by hotels, but topless sunbathing is a big “no” in any location.
Crime rates are particularly low in Dubai as the laws are strict and there are severe punishments for people who break them. One of these laws is sex outside of marriage, which can also be applied to expats and visitors from any country.
It is forbidden to drink alcohol in Islam, although this was not always the case. At first Muslims were only forbidden to be intoxicated during prayer, until finally, some years later the Qur’an stated that, "intoxicants and games of chance" were "abominations of Satan's handiwork,” and so Muslims were ordered to abstain.
