In recent years, there have been several important reforms in Dubai concerning legal certainty in the emirate. The United Arab Emirates is active in the area of social rights and demonstrates a commitment to promoting gender equality. Compared to other countries in the Middle East, women’s rights and gender equality in the UAE are exemplary.
Dubai: Human Rights and Other Current Developments
Dubai presents itself as a safe, modern, and progressive metropolis. Its infrastructure is exceptionally well-developed, and residents enjoy a high standard of living and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Human rights in Dubai are aligned with international standards. This is evident from the fact alone that approximately 90 percent of the population in this desert metropolis consists of foreigners from all over the world. This international community drives the emirate’s economy and benefits from safety and a high quality of life.
An Overview of Dubai’s Characteristics
Let’s now take a look at specific factors that play a role in the context of human rights in Dubai and shape daily life and the coexistence of cultures in the city.
- Safety: Dubai is considered one of the safest major cities in the world. Even at night, muggings and thefts are rare.
- Quality of Life: People from all over the world want to live in Dubai. The number of expats is growing every year. Because Dubai respects human rights and offers its residents state-of-the-art infrastructure, a thriving economy, spectacular architecture, and unparalleled attractions and recreational opportunities, the city ranks among the most livable destinations in the world.
- Tax Benefits: Dubai is not only a great place to live, but also a tax haven. Individuals are not required to pay income tax in the emirate. There is also no capital gains tax or property tax. For many expatriates, this is a major incentive to settle in Dubai.
- Economy: Dubai pursues innovative and forward-looking economic policies. In doing so, the emirate demonstrates an unprecedented level of openness and receptiveness. One way in which human rights are respected in Dubai is that people can find themselves in high-level positions and pursue unexpected career opportunities. It is striking that there are also numerous women in leadership roles.
- Real Estate Market: The real estate market has grown rapidly in recent years. Demand for affordable housing for expats and families with children remains strong. It is striking that Dubai has proven to be exceptionally child-friendly. Demand for luxury real estate has also risen, proving once again just how highly regarded and accepted Dubai is on an international scale.
- Infrastructure: Dubai’s infrastructure is exceptionally well-developed. Distances within this modern and cosmopolitan metropolis are short. Those who live in the outlying neighborhoods can quickly reach the city center. Special emphasis is placed on ensuring that families in Dubai find an attractive living environment. The proximity to international schools and the availability of play areas are just a few examples. Dubai also boasts an above-average number of water parks and amusement parks.
- Technology and Digitalization: Dubai is investing heavily in the future. It is creating an environment that appeals to investors but also attracts families. One of the most recent developments is the creation of an eco-community focused on environmental protection and sustainability. This, too, highlights how Dubai respects human rights and creates a suitable environment and foundation for personal development, even for residents with their own views and ways of thinking.
Human Rights in Dubai: Women and Their Role
Anyone who assumes that women are disadvantaged in Dubai is completely wrong. In fact, the opposite is true. Women enjoy a privileged status in the Emirates. More than half of the working population in the UAE consists of women. They benefit from a high level of education.
In Dubai, women are represented in all areas of public administration. The law grants them the right to hold half of all seats in the Federal National Council (FNC), the advisory parliament of the United Arab Emirates. Women are in a much better position in the Emirates than in neighboring countries in the Middle East.
The proportion of women is high in both the public sector and the private sector. The Emirates are working vigorously to strengthen the role of women. This is also evident in the work of the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children. The foundation is dedicated to protecting women and children who have been victims of violence. The transformation of women’s roles in the United Arab Emirates in recent years has been impressive and serves as a model for the region.
Dubai: Influencers and Human Rights
The dazzling desert metropolis captivates influencers. Here, luxury is the name of the game, and spectacular buildings and locations provide a dream backdrop for photos and posts on social media. Last but not least, Dubai’s tax advantages are another reason why more and more German influencers are giving their followers a glimpse into life in Dubai.
Influencers are allowed to settle in Dubai and pursue their work. To do so, they need a license. Influencers face no restrictions on their work. Dubai even actively courts influencers and expats on a regular basis to strengthen its image as a business hub and tourist mecca.
In Dubai, influencers typically focus on the city’s many positive aspects, from its architecture to its lifestyle. In doing so, they contribute to the city’s international image. Given the city’s many attractions, highlighting its strengths is not difficult.
As in many countries, Dubai has clear rules governing public political and religious statements. Visitors are well advised to respect these rules. Dubai is not alone in this regard. Starting October 10, 2025, the new EU regulation on transparency and targeting will also take effect in Germany. Political advertising by influencers on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook will then be prohibited. Political ads have already been banned on TikTok.
Dubai and Human Rights: A Look at the Emirates’ Legal System
When we talk about human rights in Dubai, it’s also important to look beyond the immediate picture and examine the legal system a bit more closely. Islamic law applies in the United Arab Emirates. Since 2020, Sharia law has undergone various relaxations and reforms.
The legal system should be understood as a dualistic framework comprising civil law and Sharia law. Sharia law is based on the Constitution of the UAE. Civil law is influenced by French and Egyptian legal traditions. The legal system combines civil law with elements of Islamic law and is applied particularly in matters of family law. Furthermore, Dubai has a legal system—the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC)—that is derived from common law.
Dubai: Vacation and Human Rights
Anyone traveling to Dubai is visiting an emirate with its own unique culture, traditions, and legal system. Vacationers are always welcome in Dubai and will find a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals. Before traveling to the United Arab Emirates, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with some general local customs. Consideration and acceptance are important foundations for getting along with one another.
Here’s an overview of some important tips for travelers visiting Dubai:
- Alcohol: Alcohol may be consumed in the United Arab Emirates, subject to certain restrictions.
- Freedom of Speech: In Dubai, it is advisable to avoid political and religious topics in public. Instead, open hospitality takes center stage in everyday life.
- Public Conduct: Travelers should respect cultural traditions and local laws. Every country has its own customs in this regard, which deserve respect.
- Information: We can only provide general guidance. You should check the Federal Foreign Office’s website for the latest information. There you will find the current entry requirements and up-to-date information.
Dubai and Crime
Dubai is one of the safest places in the world. You can enjoy the city without worry, day or night. In this context, it is important to be familiar with Dubai’s criminal law. It differs from the legal system in Germany. The emirate’s criminal law is governed by Federal Law 3/1987. The criminal code is based on Sharia law and differs in some respects from the German understanding of the law.
Drugs should be avoided at all costs. The regulations are very strict, which contributes significantly to the city’s high level of safety. Dubai is a modern metropolis that demonstrates its cosmopolitan and tolerant nature in many ways. However, it is important to remember that the city is deeply rooted in Arab traditions, and as a result, there are certain differences from European perspectives and legal systems.
Dubai and Alcohol
Dubai respects the human rights of its visitors and allows non-Muslims to consume alcohol in designated bars, clubs, and restaurants. The legal drinking age is 21. Visitors should consume alcohol only at licensed establishments. The Muslim faith prohibits the consumption of alcoholic beverages in public.
No special license is required to purchase alcohol. An ID card or passport is sufficient to prove that you meet the minimum age requirement. Alcoholic beverages are sold at MMI, African + Eastern, and other licensed liquor stores.
Diversity and Tolerance
Dubai is a cosmopolitan metropolis that respects the human rights of non-Muslims. In the city, Christians can gather at a Catholic parish, and a Hindu temple is also open to the public. In return, tourists and expatriates are expected to treat the local population and their religious beliefs and practices with respect.
During Ramadan, the Islamic fasting month, you should refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of courtesy and respect for the local people’s faith. In November, Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of fasting, is celebrated. The birthday of the Prophet Muhammad falls in April or May. In February, the flight from Mecca is commemorated. August 6 is marked on the calendar as the day of the Emir’s accession to the throne. A holiday of national significance is December 2, the founding day of the United Arab Emirates.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.com – Mr.zara (Moez Zarai)
