Dubai is a hotspot for tourists. The glowing cityscape, dotted with modern highrises which stun many, has always been its prime attraction. Moreover, the colourful lifestyle of Dubai has also been a magnet for tourists around the world. However, you must also know that in Dubai, strict laws are in place to cancel out PDAs. The laws ensure that anyone violating these rules would even find themselves behind bars. As such, the question arises as to whether unmarried couples can sleep together in Dubai.
What Earlier Laws Stated
Previously, in Dubai, it was illegal for unmarried couples to live together or share a hotel room. This was based on Islamic laws and cultural traditions. Violating this law could lead to fines, jail time, or deportation. Under Federal Law No. 3 of 1987, living with an unmarried partner in Dubai was punishable by up to one year in prison.
Additionally, unmarried couples were not allowed to have children, and if a woman became pregnant outside of marriage, it was considered a crime punishable by jail time and deportation for foreign women. If a woman was found pregnant and did not have a marriage certificate when asked by a doctor, the police were informed without delay. Furthermore, engaging in consensual intercourse involving a victim under 18 years old resulted in charges of sexual molestation, punishable by temporary imprisonment.
Changes Made
The UAE government has introduced a new status law for Non-Muslims, allowing unmarried couples to live together in the UAE. These changes include decriminalising consensual relationships outside of marriage, recognising unmarried parenting, and expanding the scope of rape charges.
These laws were influenced by the country’s economic growth and the presence of many Western tourists and expatriates, ensuring residents could live in accordance with their customs while respecting local laws. It’s essential to adhere to local customs and laws, as failure to do so can lead to serious consequences.
Moreover, amendments to Federal Decree-Law No. 15 of 2020 have decriminalised consensual relationships between unmarried couples. Premarital sex is no longer a criminal offence unless one partner is under 14 years old, cannot make independent decisions, or has mental disabilities. If a complaint is filed by a spouse or guardian of an unmarried couple over 18, they may face up to six months in jail, but charges can be withdrawn, postponing or dismissing the case.
Previously, under Federal Law No. 3 of 1987, sexual relations involving a victim under 18 could lead to charges of sexual molestation and temporary imprisonment. Under the new Penal Code, effective from January 2, 2022, significant amendments to Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 include raising the legal age of consent from 14 to 18 years. This means victims of rape, sexual molestation, or consensual sex under 18 are now legally minors under UAE law.
Final Words
Thus, traveling with your girlfriend to Dubai and staying together in the same hotel room won’t cause any legal issues regarding cohabitation. Thanks to the new amendments to the existing laws in Dubai.
Also read: Can You Kiss Publicly in Dubai?
