Tattoos are not illegal to have in Dubai, but getting one here is a different story due to strict regulations and cultural sensitivities. Always be mindful of the cultural context and local laws to ensure a smooth experience in the UAE.
Can You Get a Tattoo in Dubai?
When it comes to tattoos in Dubai, the laws can be a bit confusing, leading to a lot of misconceptions. Some people think tattoos are completely illegal, while others believe getting a tattoo in the UAE is illegal but having one isn’t. Neither is entirely accurate. Let’s break it down in a way that’s simple to understand.
Having a Tattoo: It’s perfectly legal to have tattoos in the UAE.
Getting a Tattoo: This is where the issue lies. There are no licensed tattoo parlours in Dubai or the UAE. Tattooing is not permitted outside of medical or cosmetic settings, such as clinics licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
Why Are Tattoos a Sensitive Topic in Dubai?
The UAE is a Muslim-majority country, and tattoos are forbidden in Islam based on a Fatwa issued by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE). They are viewed as self-injury and are considered socially unacceptable in Emirati and Islamic culture. This is why you’ll rarely see locals with tattoos.
However, Dubai is also a cosmopolitan city with many expats who openly sport tattoos. For these individuals:
Tattoos should not be offensive: Images or slogans that disrespect local values or religious sentiments can land you in trouble.
Public display of tattoos is generally fine, but it’s best to cover up tattoos that might be provocative or offensive.
Is Tattooing Allowed in Dubai?
There are no licensed tattoo shops or professional body art tattooists in Dubai. Any underground or unlicensed tattooing services are strictly illegal due to health and safety concerns, including risks of infections like Hepatitis C.
Licensed medical professionals may perform tattooing for medical or cosmetic purposes, such as semi-permanent makeup or medical procedures, but these services are tightly regulated.
What About Henna or Stick-On Tattoos?
Henna tattoos and stick-on tattoos are popular and widely accepted, provided they do not depict offensive images or messages. Henna is especially common among locals and tourists alike, making it a great alternative if you’re looking for a temporary and culturally accepted form of body art.
Can I Work in Dubai if I Have Tattoos?
Absolutely. Many companies in Dubai are open-minded about tattoos, especially in creative or media industries. However, it’s always best to cover them during job interviews or in conservative workplaces like medical or sales roles.
Advice for Tourists
If you’re visiting Dubai:
Avoid getting a tattoo locally: Underground tattooing is risky and illegal.
Cover tattoos if needed: Especially if your tattoos feature offensive language, nudity, or symbols that may be considered disrespectful in the UAE.
Can Tattoos Get You Banned from Dubai?
While it’s rare, tattoos that are deemed highly offensive—such as those featuring profanity, nudity, or anti-religious imagery—can lead to legal trouble or even a lifetime ban. If in doubt, cover up.