Just like any other city around the world, Dubai has rules and laws for everyday living, whether it be on public transport or while out and about.

However, if you’ve not been here for long, we’re about to share the lesser-known city rules to note, to avoid some pretty hefty Dubai fines.

Or even if you have been kicking about the city for ages, there’s bound to be a few rules and regulations you might not have heard before.

From dusty cars to chewing gum, how many of these Dubai rules do you know?

The Dubai fines you need to know about

Jaywalking

In Dubai, crossing roads before you’ve reached a designated pedestrian crossing could cost you Dhs400.

Part of keeping both roads and people safe, Dubai Police advises not to be on your phone when crossing the road, and only to try to cross in areas where you can easily monitor vehicles and be visible to motorists.

Chewing gum on the metro

Just like eating and drinking on the Dubai Metro, chewing gum also falls into the same category.

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Keeping the carriages free from mess, it could cost you Dhs100 if you don’t remember to bin that piece you’re chewing before you step on. If you don’t want Dubai fines, save the gum for later.

Having a dirty car

In Dubai, you can be fined Dhs500 (or more) if you are caught with a dirty car.

It’s easy for your vehicle to get a bit grubby especially in the desert, but be wary of leaving it too long before you head to the car wash.

Read more: Going on holiday? How you choose to leave your car could cost you Dhs500 (or more)

All part of keeping the city clean and beautiful for residents, any vehicles covered in grime could pay the price.

Sleeping on the metro platform

Yes, being sleepy can get you Dubai fines. If you’re tired, make sure to have a strong coffee before the morning commute because there is strictly no sleeping on Dubai Metro platforms.

According to the Road and Traffic Authority (RTA), you can receive a Dhs300 fine for “sleeping on platforms where passengers are waiting or in places where sleeping is prohibited”.

Putting your feet on the seats

This one covers all modes of public transport, whether you’re travelling by bus, metro or tram.

Keep those feet down or you could be met with Dubai fines of Dhs100.

You can find the full list of all public transport fines on the RTA website.

Parking on the pavement

Proper parking is very important in Dubai, and sneaking up onto the kerb or the pavement won’t end well for you.

As per the Federal Traffic Law, parking on pavements can fetch you a fine of Dhs400.

Make sure to find a proper space and pay the meter if you need to, happy parking.

You might also like: These Dubai Metro stations offer free parking

Taking photos of people in public

When you have your camera out in Dubai, it’s important to note that you cannot take photos of government or semi-government buildings without permission. Yes, this will land you Dubai fines.

On the topic of photos, it is not permitted to photograph people in public without their permission, and if found to be sharing these, you could be fined anywhere from Dhs150,000 to Dhs500,000.

Washing your car

You might think you’re just getting the chores done, but washing your car in public can see you land with a Dhs100 fine or more.

In a bid to keep the streets clean, you cannot wash your vehicle in a public spot, so wastewater and dirt does not accumulate on the road.

You can of course do so on your own property, or at an designated car wash.

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