What about the rights and safety of the LGBTQ+ community in Dubai? In this article, we will look at the actual situation and explain the legal and social hurdles associated with homosexuality.
The most important facts in a nutshell:
🏳️🌈 Homosexuality is illegal: Homosexuality and related acts are illegal in the UAE and can be punished with prison sentences of up to 14 years.
⚖️ Uncertain penalties: There is no fixed maximum penalty, and the death penalty remains theoretically possible for certain homosexual acts.
👬 Life in Dubai: Despite the laws, there is a homosexual community in Dubai that leads a discreet but active social life, including organised parties and meet-ups.
🚫 No protection against discrimination: There is no legal protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.
🌍 International endeavours: Human rights organisations are working internationally to improve the situation for LGBTQ+ people in the UAE.
🔒 Caution and safety: Homosexuals are advised to exercise the utmost discretion in order to Security in Dubai to reach.
Is homosexuality illegal in Dubai? The legal situation
The legal situation in the United Arab Emirates is extremely restrictive not only for homosexuals, but for all people belonging to the LGBTQ+ community. Homosexuality is still illegal and is criminalised in the criminal codes of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The offences range from "unnatural sex with another person" to "sodomy". Both offences can be punished with a prison sentence of up to 14 years. Both men and women can be prosecuted under these laws.
It is important to note that penalties are at the discretion of the court and there is no set maximum penalty. Good to know: Although there have been no known arrests or prosecutions for same-sex sexual activity in the UAE since at least 2015, the death penalty for homosexual acts remains theoretically possible, especially for married individuals. However, charges will only be brought if the husband or male guardian files a criminal complaint. In addition, people can be prosecuted on the basis of their sexual and gender identity under public decency rules or on the basis of "disguise". It is important that the legal situation is clear beforehand and that you do not take any risks and run the risk of being penalised for your sexual orientation.
What is daily life like as a gay person in the UAE?
Do you think Dubai is completely unsuitable to live there as a homosexual? All-clear: There are many homosexual people living in Dubai, including clients of ours, who tell us that if you (like everyone) stick to the rules, it's much easier than it sounds. Homosexual people can also be seen in everyday life, in restaurants, malls or the general public. However, as with heterosexual people, it is forbidden to flaunt your affections in public.
There is no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, neither in the workplace nor, for example, when looking for accommodation. It is therefore advisable to keep a low profile if possible. Social stigmatisation of homosexuality and different genders is widespread, resulting in limited space for openness and acceptance, especially among the local population. Among expats from more westernised countries or the Asian region, however, this is more relaxed. There are pre-arranged parties and get-togethers organised via social media (e.g. in clubs throughout the city).
Current developments and outlook
In recent years, there have been some more positive, albeit far from ideal, developments in relation to LGBTQ rights in the United Arab Emirates. In 2021, a new penal code came into force, with the provision to reintroduce the so-called "Personal Relationship Law". The Personal Relationship Law now makes the prosecution of non-marital sexual behaviour only possible at the request of the husband or male guardian. The minimum sentence is six months imprisonment and there is no fixed maximum sentence. The impact of this change on the LGBTQ community is not yet clear.
Hopefully, the situation for the LGBTQ community in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates will improve in the future. The international community and human rights organisations remain committed to combating discrimination and violence against the LGBTQ+ community and promoting the recognition of their rights.
Safety and precautions for LGBTQ+ expats in Dubai
Despite the restrictive laws and discrimination, homosexuals can achieve a degree of safety in Dubai with extreme caution and discretion. We recommend that you avoid public displays of affection and do not reveal your sexual orientation publicly. Although there are no official gay bars, there are certain bars with foreign clientele and expats that are considered gay-friendly and where you can have fun openly. Important to know: there are no specific gay neighbourhoods in Dubai.
It is important to be aware that LGBTQ rights are severely restricted in Dubai and enforcement of laws against homosexual acts and "dressing up" is possible. Before you emigrate, you should be aware of the risks. We recommend a longer trip to Dubai to familiarise yourself with the place and to network with other homosexuals. It is always easier to get started in a new place through a community.
Frequently asked questions on the topic
Is Dubai LGBTQ+ friendly?
Dubai is not considered LGBTQ+ friendly. In the United Arab Emirates, of which Dubai is a part, sexual activity outside of heterosexual marriage is illegal. This includes homosexual acts, which can be severely penalised. There are no public LGBT communities, and gay people often live in secret to avoid discrimination and prosecution.
Is homosexuality a criminal offence in Dubai?
Yes, homosexuality is a criminal offence in Dubai. The penal code of the United Arab Emirates provides for severe penalties for homosexual acts, including prison sentences. The laws and their enforcement may vary depending on the emirate, but in general homosexuality is treated as a criminal offence in Dubai and the rest of the UAE.
Can I move freely as a gay person in Dubai?
Yes, definitely. The legal situation looks more devastating than it is in Dubai. You can move around normally and don't have to be afraid of hostility or discrimination. There are a lot of people in Dubai, especially homosexuals, who are open about it, for example as sales staff in clothing shops such as Zara, H&M or the Emirates airline.
