What NOT to do in the Emirates? – 11 Mistakes That Could Cost You More Than a Camel Selfie

---

Dubai tempts with gold, luxury and… a ticket for short shorts. The United Arab Emirates is a fascinating country of contrasts – futuristic skyscrapers and strict rules that can surprise even experienced globetrotters. Before you set off for Instagram shots under the Burj Khalifa – read what it is better NOT to do to avoid a cultural faux pas or a visit to the police station.

---

1. Don’t kiss in public (even if you’re married)

In the Emirates, we show affection… discreetly. Kisses, hugs, holding hands – all of this can be considered a public display of affection and be not only frowned upon, but also punishable. Yes, even if you’ve been married for 20 years.

➡️ True story : A couple of tourists were fined for kissing on JBR beach. Just 2 seconds of affection, and it ended with a fine of 1,000 AED (~1100 PLN). While in the center of Dubai everything goes unpunished, the further into the emirates you go, the less welcome such gestures are.

Rule : feelings – in the hotel. Photos – no too much cuddling.

---

2. Don’t show too much skin… because you’re not in Ibiza

Even though Dubai is hot (literally and metaphorically), leave the beach style for the beach. In galleries, restaurants and museums, the dress code officially requires covering shoulders and knees . Sheer clothes? Mini? XXL cleavage? It will be awkward – or you simply won’t get in.

➡️ Pro tip : Bring a thin scarf or kimono – perfect for throwing on in malls like the Dubai Mall.

📍 Attraction: Dubai Mall – free admission

---

3. Don’t drink alcohol anywhere (this is not Spain)

The Emirates are not a country of prohibition, but… you can’t buy alcohol in a grocery store. There are special stores that sell alcohol, but you can only drink it in the privacy of your room 😉 or… You can only drink it in licensed premises – mainly hotels. A walk with a beer on the beach or a “drink” in the subway? A big blunder – and a ticket.

📍 Attraction: Pier 7 in Dubai Marina – 7 floors of restaurants with alcohol menu and view. Drink price: AED 45–75 (~PLN 50–85). Here you can legally!

---

4. Don’t criticize religion, government or… camels

The Emirates is a country where respect for Islam and the authorities is essential. Even a joke, a meme or a comment on social media can get you into trouble – even after you return to your home country.

📍 Attraction: Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi – free admission, abaya rental for women, mandatory covering of hair and shoulders. An unforgettable place – and no jokes.

---

5. Do not swear, do not insult, do not use gestures (seriously, even on the road!)

In the Emirates, politeness is sacred. Shouting, cursing, the “middle finger” – even when emotional – can result in arrest, fine or deportation . Even in an Uber or when the air conditioning is jammed.

➡️ Interesting fact: An insult on the internet (e.g. a comment on TripAdvisor) is also punishable. You have the right to your opinion, but do it in a civilized manner!

---

6. Don’t take pictures of everything – especially people

In the Emirates, it is illegal to photograph strangers without their consent , especially women and families. A selfie from the beach? Sure. A selfie with an Emirati woman in an abaya without asking? Fast track to the police station.

📍 Safe attractions to photograph:

• • The View at The Palm – entry from AED 100 (~PLN 110), drone-like view.
• • Desert Safari – price: from AED 250 (~PLN 270) with dinner and belly dancing.
• • Ain Dubai (ferris wheel)
• • Dubai Frame – price: AED 50 (~PLN 55), Insta-frame guaranteed.

---

Conclusion: Remember that you are a guest

The Emirates is not just about the glitz of skyscrapers and air-conditioned shopping. It is also a place where tradition has a voice. By following the rules, you show respect – and it always comes back. And if you want to be amazed, and not have an adventure with the law – just… listen, observe and adapt.

---

FAQ – 5 most common questions from tourists:

1. Can I really get a ticket for kissing?
Yes – especially in public places like beaches, the metro or galleries. A ticket is one thing, but you can also get arrested.

2. Do I have to wear a headscarf as a tourist?
Only in mosques or during religious ceremonies.

3. Can I drink alcohol in an Airbnb apartment?
Just make sure the neighbors don’t hear and the apartment is returned intact ;-). It’s safer to drink only in hotels and licensed bars.

4. Can I take pictures of people in a market or souk?
Not without their permission – it’s best to ask. There are souks in Dubai where some stalls have “No Photo” signs.

5. Is a selfie with a camel in the desert a good idea?
Yes! But it’s nice to ask the owner for permission – and don’t scare the animal with a flash. Camels on safari are trained for this, so take it easy.

---

Want more real-life guides like this?
Follow my newsletter and check out other posts like “How to Dress for Dubai and Not Regret a Single Photo” or “10 Things They Never Say in the Emirates (Even as a Joke)” .

Wizz Air is spring-cleaning its loyalty club – but it may have been a bit too busy with its wallet… ours, not its own. Wizz Discount Club membership has just gone up, while discounts have been trimmed down like hand luggage to the size of a phone bag. What exactly is changing? Is it still worth being a WDC member? Let me explain.

---

✈️ What is Wizz Discount Club (for the uninitiated)?

This is Wizz Air’s loyalty program, which until now allowed you to save up to 10 euros on a ticket and 5 euros on baggage . The annual membership paid off even after one or two flights, especially if you were flying with a companion – the discount was valid for 1+1 passengers.

But as is often the case with budget airlines… something that was too good had to change.

---

🧾 What has changed in 2025?

💳 New Membership Prices:

• • Standard (up to 2 people) – was: €39.99, now: €59.99
• • Group (up to 6 people) – was: €69.99, now: €99.99

📉 Smaller discounts:

• • Ticket discount : from 10€ → to 5€
• • Checked baggage discount : from 5€ → none

🚫 Additional restrictions:

• Discounts no longer apply to the cheapest “Basic” tariffs in many cases.
• “Exclusive club member” offers appear less frequently (and are less advantageous).

---

📊 Is it still worth it?

The short answer: increasingly rarely. If you fly Wizz once or twice a year – especially solo – it’s probably not worth it . The discounts are too small to compensate for the increased membership fee.

But if:

• You fly in pairs or groups,
• You plan several flights a year,
• You book your tickets in advance,
• You are using the Standard or Flex tariffs,

…it might still be worth it. But it’s not that great 😉

---

📌 Summary

WDC used to be a brilliant way to fly cheaply. Now it’s more “meh” – you save a little, but with more difficulty. It’s looking more and more like a typical fast food loyalty card: you get discounts, but you have to eat 12 burgers to get free fries.

---

❓FAQ – frequently asked questions

Is it worth extending Wizz Discount Club?

Only if you fly more than 2-3 times a year and not alone. For occasional travelers it’s a waste of money.

Can I opt out of automatic renewal?

Yes! You need to log in to your Wizz account and disable auto-renewal in the “My Memberships” section.

Can I purchase tickets for more than 1 person with one subscription?

Yes – even in the standard version you can buy tickets for yourself and one person with a discount. In the extended version – up to 6 people.

Are there alternatives to WDC?

Not in Wizz Air itself, but… sometimes Ryanair tickets without clubs are cheaper than Wizz with a club. It’s worth comparing!

Do WDC discounts work on flights from Poland?

Yes, but remember – the discount is only valid for certain tariffs and only when booking online.

Can You Take Seashells Out of Dubai? Souvenirs You Shouldn’t Pack in Your Suitcase…

Fancy taking a bit of beach with you from Dubai? Beware! Not every souvenir is legal…

You know the feeling: you stand barefoot on the golden sand of Jumeirah Beach, the sun still warming your skin, and you spot a perfect, shiny shell. Small, beautiful. You think to yourself: “This will be my piece of Dubai for winter evenings in Poland .” But did you know that such a souvenir can cost you a lot?

In this post I clear up any doubts: what is allowed, what is not allowed, and how to avoid trouble at customs. Plus – I throw in some legal, original and absolutely Instagrammable souvenirs from Dubai!

---

Seashells from Dubai – can you take them?

In short, without beating around the bush: it is not advisable to take shells, sand or coral from Dubai’s beaches. And while you can take them out of Dubai, it is illegal to bring them into the European Union.
Why?

• Dubai (and the entire UAE) protects nature – even seashells are part of the marine ecosystem.
• Many beaches are located in reserves or under ecological protection.
• The airport is very vigilant in its controls. Tourists caught can be fined (up to AED 500) or… lose their shell before they even have a chance to show it to their grandmother.

👉 My advice: take a photo of a seashell with palm trees and the Burj Al Arab in the background, and pack something in your suitcase that doesn’t raise any doubts.

---

What souvenirs from Dubai are legal and worth the money?

Instead of taking your chances at the border, choose something from this list. These souvenirs are stylish, legal, and… Instagram-worthy.

1. Gold from Gold Souk – a trend worthy item

In the Deira souk you will find jewelry that sparkles like Dubai at night. Prices start at around AED 500 for a delicate bracelet, but you have to haggle hard.
📸 Tip: Take a picture next to the giant ring (the largest in the world!).

2. Arabian Perfumes – The Scent of the Orient

In Ajmal or Swiss Arabian you can buy unique perfumes in oil – durability? 12 hours minimum. Small bottles cost from 60 AED.

3. Dates from the luxury Bateel factory

Don’t confuse them with the supermarket ones – these almond-filled, chocolate-covered ones are culinary art. Price: from around AED 80 for an elegant package.

4. Shawls and abayas from local boutiques

If you shop in Al Fahidi or Al Seef Market, you can find a hand-embroidered abaya for as little as AED 250. Watch out – this is a great story style!

5. Ceramics and Mosaics from Al Quoz

Art galleries like The Workshop offer handmade pottery and tiles, starting at AED 80.

---

What not to bring from Dubai – a list of prohibited “souvenirs”

Better leave it where it is:

• • Corals – even those lying loose
• • Antiques and artifacts – you can’t export them without a document of origin
• • Protected animals and plants

---

What is worth buying at Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

Got too many dirhams? Here are 3 proven duty free hits:

• • Emirati brands perfume sets – perfect for a gift
• • 3D Burj Khalifa Gold Card – from AED 60
• • Halal-certified mini dates – because not everyone knows that they exist!

---

Finally – my approach to souvenirs

You don’t need a seashell to remember Dubai. The smell of Arabian oud, a cup of desert stones or a photo from the Old Souk will do. And if you want something absolutely unique – capture a moment, not an object.

✈️ What about you? What did you bring back from Dubai? Let me know in the comments – I wonder if anyone has an even more unusual souvenir than… a spice set in the shape of the Burj Khalifa!

---

FAQ: Questions Everyone Asks Before Flying Out of Dubai

1. Can I really not take one shell from the beach?
Theoretically you can, but if you get checked out – they can take it away from you. The risk is not worth one shell.

2. Can souvenirs from the bazaar be fakes?
Yes – especially perfumes, watches and bags. Buy only from verified, certified outlets.

3. Are spices legal to transport?
Yes, as long as they are originally packaged. Always check your country’s customs regulations.

4. Can I buy alcohol at the airport when flying out of Dubai?
Yes, but only in the duty free zone and in accordance with the regulations of the country you are flying to.

5. Are drone photos legal as a “souvenir”?
Only if you have a license in advance. In Dubai, drone flights are very strictly regulated.

Holidays with children are not always all-inclusive relaxation – sometimes it is more of an extreme sport. But don’t worry – Dubai is a place that can amuse, surprise and tire (positively!) every child . And a happy child is… a coffee drunk in silence. Here is a set of attractions that will engage children without grumbling and allow adults to catch their breath (and Insta stories).

---

🌊 1. Aquaventure Waterpark – a water paradise with adrenaline and a beach as a bonus

Location: Atlantis The Palm
Price:
– Children up to 120 cm: AED 265 (~PLN 300)
– Adults: AED 320 (~PLN 360)

Marvel-style slides, a white-sand beach and artificial waves. Aquaventure is a water bomb that neither a six-year-old nor… an adult with a child’s soul will forget. There are also areas for toddlers and lazy rivers for those who prefer to float than fall 20 meters.

👉 Tip for parents: rent a private cabana – shade, loungers and on-call service.
👉 For Insta-moms: shark tunnel slide = viral.

---

🐧 2. Ski Dubai – Snow in the middle of the desert (and penguins!)

Location: Mall of the Emirates
Price:
– Snow Park: AED 220 (~PLN 250)
– Penguin encounter: from AED 230 (~PLN 260)

Is your child yearning for winter in the middle of hot Dubai? Take them to Ski Dubai – a giant indoor ski arena with real snow. They can sled, throw snowballs and even high-five a penguin named Pablo.

👉 Tip: wear a thin blouse under your snowsuit – the climate there is Arctic.
👉 Fun fact: the snow is made from distilled water, without chemicals. You can eat it! (yes, the kids have already tested it).

---

🦕 3. Dubai Garden Glow – a glowing park that looks like a Nutella dream

Location: Zabeel Park
Price: AED 70 (~PLN 80) – children and adults
Hours: open only in the evening (from 5:00 p.m.)

This is not an ordinary park. It is forty thousand LED lights , glowing dinosaurs, glowing mushrooms and glowing… everything. A walk at night in such a place is magic, which turns a tired child into a joyful explorer (even for 2 hours).

👉 Pro tip: bring a stroller for the younger ones – there’s a lot of walking involved.
👉 Parent-friendly: coffee and popcorn available on site.

---

🧱 4. LEGOLAND Dubai – a place where even adults can’t help themselves

Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Price:
– Children and adults: AED 330 (~PLN 375)
– Children under 3 years: free

Water slides, roller coasters, 4D cinema and miniature cities made of LEGO bricks . You can build your own car and send it on the track, or dive into interactive adventures. And although it says it’s a place “for children 2-12 years old”, don’t believe it – dad had a great time too.

👉 Tip: Bring a costume – some of the attractions are water zones.
👉 Fun fact: some LEGO models are made from over a million bricks .

---

🐬 5. Dubai Dolphinarium – a dolphin show that will make everyone wow

Location: Creek Park
Ticket Price:
– Adults: AED 120 (~135 PLN)
– Children: AED 80 (~90 PLN)

Dolphins dancing to music, playing ball and jumping in the air – sounds like a fairy tale? It happens live. Children usually leave here with eyes as big as five złoty coins. You can also book a photo session with a dolphin (yes, in the water!).

👉 Pro tip: choose the middle seats for the best view and chance for a splash.
👉 Tip: Creek Park charges 5 AED for entry – bring cash.

---

✨ In the end: kids are happy, parents are even happier

Dubai can surprise not only with luxury, but also with well-designed attractions for families with children . If you plan your day well, there will be fun and a moment for coffee. Or maybe you will even be able to record Reels without the background of: “maaamooo, I’m bored!”

Do you have your own tried and tested places in Dubai with kids? Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear your tips!

---

❓ FAQ – most frequently asked questions from parents

1. Are Dubai attractions suitable for toddlers (0-3 years)?
Yes, many places (e.g. LEGOLAND, Aquaventure, Garden Glow) have special areas for toddlers. But watch out for temperatures – it’s better to plan activities early in the morning or in the evening.

2. Do you have to buy tickets in advance?
Definitely – you can buy them online for less and avoid the lines. Some attractions (like the penguin encounters) have a limited number of seats.

3. What to bring?
Sunscreen, a hat, a bottle of water and… a power bank. In Dubai, your phone works non-stop – photos, maps, tickets.

4. Are there restaurants and food for children at the attractions?
Yes. You will find fast food, chicken and chips, and ice cream everywhere. Most places also have highchairs for toddlers.

5. How to get around Dubai with kids?
Taxi (very cheap!), metro (clean and air-conditioned), or rent a car with a car seat. Note: pushchairs are a must-have – the distances can be long!