Country

Category

4 bans

UAE ✕

Everything banned or restricted in UAE, from apps and websites to books, movies, food and everyday activities. Use the category filter to narrow it down.

UAEBannedCBD productsCBD oils, gummies, vapes and creams count as cannabis derivatives under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021. Customs test for THC, and possession inside the UAE is a crime.ProductsDetails →UAERestrictedPhotographing people without consentUnder Article 44 of the 2021 cybercrime law, taking or sharing photos of people without consent can mean at least six months in prison and/or a Dh150,000–Dh500,000 fine.Activities & LawsSince 2022-01-02Details →UAEBan liftedAlcohol without a licenceResidents once needed a government licence to buy, carry or drink alcohol. Since November 2020 adults aged 21+ can drink without one, at home or in licensed venues.Activities & LawsDetails →UAEBan liftedUnmarried couples living togetherLiving together unmarried was a crime under Article 356 of the 1987 Penal Code, punishable by up to a year in prison. A November 2020 reform decriminalised it across the UAE.Activities & LawsBanned 1987Details →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is banned in UAE?

UAE bans or restricts 2 things in our list, including CBD products and Photographing people without consent (2022-01-02).

Which categories have the most bans in UAE?

In our list: Activities & Laws (3), Products (1).

Have any of these bans been lifted?

Yes, including Alcohol without a licence and Unmarried couples living together (1987). Lifted bans stay on the list, marked "Ban lifted", so you can see how the rules changed.

Is this list up to date?

We review entries regularly and add new bans as they happen. Laws change, so check an official government source before you travel or act on this information.

Laws change often and many bans have exceptions. This list is for general information, not legal or travel advice. Check official government sources before you travel. Last updated: 01/11/2026.