Hotel Rules Dubai: Your Quick Guide to Staying Trouble‑Free

Landing in Dubai and heading straight to your hotel? Great move, but you’ll want to know the house rules before you drop your bags. Dubai’s hotels are world‑class, yet they follow strict local laws that can surprise first‑time visitors. Below you’ll find the most common rules, why they exist, and how to handle them without a hassle.

Who Can Share a Room? Unmarried Couples and Friends

Yes, you can book a room with a partner even if you’re not married. The law allows unmarried couples to stay together, but hotels may ask for identification to confirm both guests are adults. Bring passports or Emirates IDs for both of you at check‑in. If you’re traveling with a same‑sex partner, the same rule applies—just be ready for a brief verification.

Two friends can also share a room without any issue. The only catch is that the hotel might limit the number of occupants for safety and fire‑code reasons, usually two adults per standard double. If you need an extra bed, request a roll‑away and be prepared for an additional fee.

Public Displays of Affection (PDA) and Private Moments

Public displays of affection are a gray area. A quick kiss on the cheek is fine, but anything more—hand‑holding, hugging, or kissing—should stay low‑key, especially in public areas like lobbies or pools. Some hotels have designated “private” zones where you can be more relaxed, but it’s safest to keep PDA discreet.

Inside your room you’re free to be intimate, provided you respect the property. No loud parties, no extra guests without prior approval, and no filming. Violating these norms can lead to fines or even eviction.

Alcohol, Smoking, and Vaping

Alcohol is allowed only in licensed venues: hotel bars, restaurants, and designated lounge areas. If you buy a bottle of wine to enjoy in your room, make sure the hotel permits it—some upscale properties charge a corkage fee or outright forbid outside drinks. Smoking is restricted to designated smoking zones; most rooms are non‑smoking, and violating this can result in hefty cleaning fees.

Vaping follows the same rules as smoking. Many hotels treat e‑cigarettes as tobacco, so vape only in the areas marked for smokers. If you’re unsure, ask the front desk before lighting up.

Check‑In, Check‑Out, and Documentation

Check‑in usually starts at 3 pm and check‑out by 12 pm. Arriving early or leaving late may incur extra charges, so plan your travel schedule accordingly. Bring valid ID for every guest staying in the room; the hotel will record names and passport numbers for security. Some budget hotels ask for a credit card hold, while luxury resorts may request a pre‑authorisation of several hundred dirhams.

If you’re staying for an extended period (more than 30 days), you’ll need to register with local authorities. The hotel’s reception can help you fill out the required paperwork and submit it to the immigration department.

What to Do If You Run Into Trouble

Should a staff member confront you about a rule breach, stay calm and ask for clarification. Most issues are resolved with a simple apology and a willingness to correct behavior. If a fine is imposed, ask for an itemised receipt and keep it for your records.

In the rare case of a serious violation—like illegal substances or excessive noise—authorities may be called. Knowing the rules beforehand helps you avoid these scenarios entirely.

Bottom line: Dubai’s hotel rules are designed to keep everyone safe and comfortable. By bringing proper ID, keeping PDA private, respecting smoking zones, and following check‑in procedures, you’ll enjoy a smooth, worry‑free stay. Have a question about a specific hotel policy? Just ask the front desk—they’re used to helping international guests navigate these guidelines.