When one hears the name of Dubai, the picture of a vibrant city comes up in the mind’s eye. Naturally, every year numerous tourists flock to Dubai. However, apart from the normal tourists, the number of sex tourists is increasing in the city by leaps and bounds. Given that strict PDAs are in place in the entire UAE, a general question arises regarding the status of escort services in Dubai. Many people are confused as to whether they can hire an escort service in the city and yet stay out of legal trouble.

Prostitution in Dubai

Dubai has successfully integrated into globalization, even after the 2008 financial crisis. The emirate developed its service activities, with tourism being the most important. Alcohol consumption is allowed in hotels, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs with a specific license, but it is still prohibited in public spaces. Sex workers often solicit clients in these licensed places.

It is possible to hire an escort during a stay in the emirate. There is a hierarchy where Chinese, Filipino, Pakistani or Indian escorts are seen as of lesser value than Central Asian ones, who are still less appreciated than European women, including Russians, Ukrainians, or Westerners. Arab sex workers are the rarest and most sought-after, as they work less often in public spaces.

The number of active prostitutes in Dubai is sometimes estimated at 45,000. This number is hard to verify due to a complex system. Emirati nationals, authorized to sponsor the entry of foreigners on residence visas, often give these sponsorship rights to intermediaries, without knowing the real activity of the future immigrants.

The Sex Workers in Dubai

Social media stars, as well as some Instagram stars, exchange sex for a luxurious life in Dubai. The sunny weather, lack of income tax, and easy visa process have drawn thousands of influencers to Dubai. These influencers post pictures of beach parties, luxurious seafood like lobster and caviar, and nights with the wealthy elite, including many Russians following the Russian-Ukrainian tensions.

These influencers fund their lifestyle by exchanging sex for thousands of dollars a night. With increasing social media fame, their wages rise. One influencer noted that with a large follower count, they earn more, including flights, jewelry, bags, and cash. Influencers’ wages range from $7,000 to $25,000 on weekends.

What The Law Says

As of January 2, 2022, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) decriminalized consensual sex outside of marriage for unmarried people. However, if one person is married, the spouse can file a complaint, leading to up to six months in jail for both the sex worker and the client. The UAE also has laws against sex outside of marriage, which apply to sex workers and clients. Additionally, online prostitution in the UAE can result in a fine of up to AED 1 million.

Precautions To Take

If you are planning to hire an escort in Dubai, then there are a few things which you must consider before availing of the services:

• Do your homework on both the Agency and the Escort
• Be sure you’re dealing with an actual Escort (and Agency)
• Understand the rules and stick to them
• Prepare yourself as professionals will screen you, too
• Clean and dress yourself up
• Save the date
• Hire escort services now, and let the fun begin.

Also read:

• Can Boyfriend and Girlfriend Sleep Together in Dubai?
• Can You Kiss Publicly in Dubai?

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?

Dubai is a land of dreams for many. It is known for its vibrant buildings and other modern architectural wonders. That is why every year, the UAE receives thousands of tourists from various parts of the world. However, if you are planning to visit Dubai, then you must be aware of the PDA rules which govern the place. These rules are based on Islamic principles and cultural traditions. Therefore, the PDA laws in Dubai show a commitment to cultural sensitivity.

Kissing in Public

PDA laws in Dubai are strict and aim to maintain public decency and respect for local customs. Therefore, activities such as kissing, hugging, and even hand-holding, in some cases, are generally not allowed. Holding hands is usually acceptable for married couples, but it is best to exercise caution. Violating these laws can result in serious consequences, including fines, jail time, or deportation.

These laws are rooted in Islamic principles and cultural traditions. Dubai, as part of the United Arab Emirates, upholds these values to ensure that the local customs and social norms are respected by residents and visitors alike. The regulations are in place to maintain a sense of decorum and cultural sensitivity in public spaces.

Tourists and expatriates should be aware of these laws and adjust their behaviour accordingly to avoid legal issues. It is important to respect the local culture and understand that what may be acceptable in other parts of the world can be considered inappropriate in Dubai.

Violations Incur Severe Actions

The consequences of engaging in Public Displays of Affection (PDA) can vary based on cultural context and local laws. In conservative societies or places with strict regulations, PDAs can lead to legal and social issues. Therefore, showing affection in public can lead to social stigma, especially in conservative communities where people may judge or disapprove of those who engage in PDA.

PDAs that do not follow local customs may be seen as insensitive, creating tension with locals and affecting one’s social standing. Moreover, in some work environments, PDA may not be accepted, which can result in reprimands or even job loss in extreme cases. At the same time, excessive or inappropriate PDA can also affect personal relationships, making others uncomfortable or straining ties with friends and family who hold different views on public affection.

Apart from this, in public places, security personnel may step in if they believe PDA is disturbing or against the rules, leading to embarrassment or removal from the area. Many places have laws against public displays of affection, and breaking these laws can result in fines. The severity of the fine may depend on how serious the PDA was. In some cases, repeated or serious violations can lead to legal action, requiring court appearances or other legal issues.

Also read:

• Can Boyfriend and Girlfriend Sleep Together in Dubai?
• Can I Hire An Escort in Dubai?