Britons in Dubai given dos and don'ts list by Embassy

British tourists and expats working in Dubai have been given a 'Dos and Don'ts' list in a bid to keep them out of jail. The Foreign Office warns that drinking alcohol, sharing a hotel room when unmarried and even holding hands could land visitors in trouble because of strict Muslim laws.

Britons are more likely to be arrested in the United Arab Emirates - the federation of which Dubai is a part - than anywhere else in the world. The Foreign Office website warns that there is a 'zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol'.



It adds that arrests can arise from financial offences, such as bouncing cheques and offences against the laws relating to culture and morality. Possession of even the smallest amount of illegal drugs can lead to a minimum four year jail sentence. Care should also be taken about the import of prescription drugs and some over-the-counter drugs.

Britons can find themselves facing charges relating to cultural differences, such as using bad language, rude gestures or public displays of affection. British nationals should also be aware of the UAE’s strict laws banning sex outside of marriage.