United Arab Emirates

Singapore passport holders can stay visa free for up to 90 days in the UAE within a 180-day period. Travellers whose passports only bear a single name (i.e. just one name with no middle or surname) should note that they will not be allowed entry into the UAE in accordance with guidelines set by the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security. Travellers who require further information on this policy are advised to approach the nearest UAE Embassy.

As the UAE authorities may revise or implement additional measures at short notice, travellers are advised to contact the nearest UAE Embassy for up-to-date information.

The UAE has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. However, travellers should still ensure their personal items and travel documents are secure at all times.

Before planning a trip to any destination, it is prudent to be familiar with the basic laws and regulations of the destination you plan to visit. In the case of arrest or imprisonment, visitors will be subject to the criminal justice system of the UAE.

While the UAE can be viewed as modern and cosmopolitan, local laws and social norms may be more conservative than what visitors might be used to.

As in other Gulf States, the legal system in UAE is a mix of Sharia (Islamic Law), Civil and Criminal Laws, implemented by the Federal Judiciary, comprising courts of first instance and Supreme Courts. The Federal Supreme Council is the highest legislative and executive body in the UAE. It draws up general policies and approves various federal legislations. However, laws and decrees may differ within each individual Emirate.

Ignorance of the law is not acceptable in Court as a defence. Hence, it is advisable for all visitors to acquaint themselves with the laws of the country. Here are some basic laws and information on the UAE which may be of help. However, the information below is not exhaustive and travellers are advised to undertake their own research.

Working Illegally: Any attempt to work illegally is considered a crime and can result in imprisonment or deportation. Expatriates seeking to reside and work in the UAE are required to present authenticated personal documents such as birth and marriage certificates, adoption and custody degrees, and other educational documents. The authentication of documents can involve federal and local offices and may take several weeks for completion.

Military/Police Equipment: Visitors should avoid the transport of any firearms or military/police equipment, such as weapon parts, tools, ammunition, body armour, or handcuffs. People carrying such items, even in small quantities, will be arrested and may face stringent criminal penalties, including huge monetary fines, imprisonment, and forfeiture of the items.

Medicines and Drugs: Approval for the carriage of controlled medicines and drugs may be obtained online from the UAE Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE). For more information on the types of controlled drugs and the allowed quantities, please refer to the webpage https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/health-and-fitness/drugs-and-controlled-medicines. For the online approval process, please select the relevant e-service required at https://www.ede.gov.ae/service-list. [LL1] 

UAE adopts a zero-tolerance policy towards the recreational use, possession and trafficking of illegal drugs. This applies to citizens and foreigners alike.  Penalties may include imprisonment and/or heavy fines. Drug trafficking and supply are treated as very serious offences with the death penalty imposed in the most severe cases. For more information, please visit https://uaelegislation.gov.ae/en/legislations/1540

Traffic Laws: Unlike Singapore, road traffic drives on the right. Throughout the UAE, stringent penalties are imposed for certain traffic violations, particularly for drinking and driving under the influence of alcohol. Violators are often jailed and may be given demerit points and substantial penalties. A valid driving license is mandatory to drive in the UAE. While a Singapore driving license is generally recognised for short-term visitors/tourists to the UAE, some car rental companies are known to request for an international driving permit. In this regard, it is advisable to check in advance with your car rental company if an international driving permit is required.

Smoking & Alcohol: Alcohol can only be consumed privately or in licensed public places. It is an offence under UAE law to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in public. The legal age for alcohol consumption in the UAE is 21 (except in Ras Al Khaimah where it is 18). Alcohol cannot be transported in public without a proper license. Smoking is banned in public offices and all indoor places such as shopping malls. This also applies to the use of e-cigarettes and vaping.

Behaviour/Dress Codes: The behaviour and dress code in the UAE generally reflect the Islamic traditions of the country and are more conservative. Public decency and morality laws throughout the UAE are relatively stricter. Any public display of affection or immodesty is not tolerated in the UAE and may be subjected to imprisonment.

Emiratis dress conservatively and expect visitors to respect this culture by dressing modestly when in public. While beachwear is allowed at beaches, any form of nudity is not accepted. Cross-dressing is considered a crime.

Inappropriate conduct towards local women, including harassment and taking a picture without permission is considered unacceptable.

Drone-flying and/or taking photographs of military and potentially sensitive civilian sites or foreign diplomatic missions is not allowed. Bringing a drone into the UAE requires a permit and registration, which should be completed before arrival to avoid customs issues. The permit must be applied via the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (https://moiat.gov.ae/services). While the ban on individual drone use was partially lifted in January 2025, regulations remain very strict. Even after clearing customs, drone operation requires registration on the UAE Drones Unified Platform. In Dubai specifically, a DCAA permit is also needed, which may require obtaining a local training certificate. For comprehensive details on drone registration and operational requirements, please refer to the General Civil Aviation Authority's webpage (https://www.gcaa.gov.ae/en/pages/UASRegistration.aspx/). Violations may result in hefty fines and/or imprisonment.

Taking pictures of other people, especially women, without permission is also illegal. Posting or circulating sensitive or controversial materials online/on social media/in chat groups can be considered a crime punishable under UAE law.

While Islam is the main religion in the UAE, the practice of other religions is permitted so long as they respect local laws and customs. However, anything that is anti-Islam will not be tolerated at any level and can result in fines and imprisonment. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. While businesses, including restaurants, continue to operate, most do so on revised hours (i.e. opening late and closing late).

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters, or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws and customs.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations, and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of Overseas Missions.

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.

• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws, and customs.

• eRegister with us on our website (https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

• news, advisories, and security developments.

• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.

• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest, or terror attacks.

• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.

• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.