Dubai Hotel Rules & Practical Tips for Travelers

If you’re booking a room in Dubai, you’ll quickly learn that the city mixes luxury with a few legal quirks. Knowing the basics can keep your stay comfy and drama‑free. Below you’ll find the most common questions we see on our blog – from sharing rooms with a partner to handling alcohol and public affection.

Sharing a Hotel Room

Unmarried couples can book a room together, but it helps to be prepared. Most mid‑range and upscale hotels ask for two IDs at check‑in. Bring passports or residency cards for both people; otherwise you might get a polite “no entry” from the front desk.

Same‑sex guests face the same ID rule, and many hotels have become more open, especially in tourist zones. Still, wearing modest clothing in public areas and avoiding loud arguments will keep staff friendly.

If you’re traveling with a friend of the same gender, the process is identical – two IDs, a reservation under both names, and a discreet attitude. Some budget hotels even let you use a single ID, but that’s less common in the city’s premium properties.

Alcohol, PDA and Other Must‑Know Rules

Alcohol is only allowed in licensed venues like hotel bars, clubs and private suites. Order a drink at the hotel lounge and you’re good to go; trying to bring a bottle into the room can lead to fines.

Public displays of affection (PDA) are tolerated in tourist areas, but keep it low‑key. A quick kiss is usually fine, but prolonged embraces or overt displays can attract a warning or even a fine. The same applies to same‑sex couples – discretion is key.

During Ramadan, most hotels will restrict alcohol service during daylight hours. Check the hotel’s Ramadan policy before you arrive, or plan to dine after sunset.

Finally, remember that many hotels enforce a “no smoking” rule inside rooms. Use designated smoking areas or ask the front desk about designated rooms to avoid extra charges.

Our blog covers each of these topics in depth. For a step‑by‑step guide on co‑habiting in a Dubai hotel, see “Can You Sleep Together in Dubai? 2025 Rules, Hotel Policies, and Local Etiquette.” Need tips on how two men can share a room? Check out “Can Two Men Share a Hotel Room in Dubai? 2025 Rules, Etiquette & Booking Tips.” And if you’re curious about whether you can kiss your girlfriend in public, the article “Can I Kiss My Girlfriend in Dubai? 2025 PDA Rules, Law, and Safe Etiquette” breaks it down.

Bottom line: bring both IDs, keep alcohol inside licensed spots, tone down PDA, and respect Ramadan rules. Follow these simple steps and you’ll enjoy Dubai’s luxury hotels without a hitch.