Holidays: Never do this very risky thing in Dubai or face very serious consequences

Dubai holidays are very popular with British holidaymakers but it’s key to be aware of the different laws and customs in place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Alcohol is one area which can confuse Britons holidaying in the emirate of Dubai. Tourists can drink in Dubai – but it’s not as straightforward as many other popular holiday destinations. According to the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office: “It is possible for tourists and visitors to buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs.

“However, you should be aware that it is a punishable offence under UAE law to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in public.”

While in the UK drivers can usually have one drink and still be under the limit to drive, this isn’t always the case elsewhere.

In Dubai, however, there is a zero-tolerance towards drink driving so Britons shouldn’t get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.

Dmitrijs Zaznovs from DiscoverCarHire.com has shared his advice on driving in Dubai.

He told Express.co.uk: “We always advise customers not to drink at all when renting a car on a holiday.

“But if you enjoy a glass of wine or beer in the evening, be careful when you decide to then drive, even if it’s the morning after.

“It is vital you understand the country you are visiting laws and regulations when it comes to drink driving limits.

“Some countries drink driving limits are higher, some places have zero tolerance or a total ban on alcohol.

“Take Dubai, for example, while there isn’t a total ban on alcohol and both residents and tourists can consume alcohol in various licensed restaurant and bars linked to hotels, there is zero-tolerance and driving or attempt to drive under the influence of alcohol is a crime.

“According to Article No 49.6 of the Traffic Law, the punishment of any driver caught drinking and driving or attempting to drive while drunk include imprisonment and a minimum fine of AED 25,000 (almost £5,400).

“It’s always better to be safe and have a holiday to remember not one to forget.”

Dubai isn’t the only destination to have a stricter approach than the UK to drink driving in the region.

Qatar also has a zero-tolerance approach while Saudi Arabia has a total ban on alcohol.

Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh all have zero tolerance – but neighbouring India allows a blood alcohol concentration of 0.03 per cent.

Incredibly some countries don’t have any limits at all – but you can still be arrested if you’re driving dangerously.

For instance, in Barbados, there’s no blood alcohol concentration limit – but there is a law for driving without due care and attention.

European countries also have laws in place that may take Britons by surprise. For example, it is illegal to drive a car in France using headphones or earphones. 

source: express.co.uk