Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the UAE, and the UAE is extremely photogenic. But there are important restrictions:

• Allowed: Attractions, skylines, landscapes, your own group, food, souks (most vendors are happy about photos)
• Ask: Always ask for permission before photographing Emiratis (especially women in Abaya). Most politely decline. Respect that.
• Prohibited: Military installations, government buildings, rulers' palaces, police stations, airport security areas. Penalty: fine, confiscation, in extreme cases arrest.
• Drones: Drone flights in the UAE require approval. Without a license from the GCAA (General Civil Aviation Authority), high fines (up to 20,000 AED/5,000 EUR) and confiscation are threatened. Application process via the DCAA app (takes 5–15 working days). Most tourist areas in Dubai are no-fly zones.