Kenya Airways’ Gatwick service to start in July

Kenya Airways will launch flights between Gatwick and Nairobi from the start of July.

The thrice-weekly evening service to and from the south London airport will complement the carrier’s existing flights from Heathrow.

Flight KQ108 will depart Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Wednesday at 2345, and Friday and Sunday at 2340, arriving into Gatwick at 0655 and 0650 the following day respectively.

The return leg KQ109 will depart Gatwick on Monday at 1210, Thursday at 1100, and Saturday at 1225, arriving into Nairobi at 2305, 2155 and 2320 respectively.

The group’s managing director and CEO Allan Kilavuka said that the new route was “just the beginning of our expansion plans for the UK market”.

“The United Kingdom is essential and strategic for Kenya Airways and Kenya, said Kilavuka.

“It provides a gateway for trade, tourism, education, business, leisure travel, and diaspora connections. We are excited to add Gatwick Airport to our expansive network as it means that KQ guests now have more options in and out of the UK and a convenient schedule that suits their travel preferences.”

Kenya Airways currently operates daily flights between Nairobi and Heathrow – it has previously operated a double daily service to the airport, and indeed in 2023 it was reported that the carrier was returning to two flights per day.

Back in 2016 Kenya Airways sold its Heathrow for a reported record sum of $75 million to Oman Air, meaning it now leases slots from other carriers for its Heathrow service.

Last year the carrier established a codeshare agreement with fellow SkyTeam member Virgin Atlantic, enabling Kenya Airways customers to connect via Heathrow onto a number of Caribbean destinations served by Virgin Atlantic including Barbados, The Bahamas, Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Source : Business Traveller

An Understanding of the Causes of Flight Delays

Around the world, passengers frequently become frustrated by flight delays. Even though airlines work hard to keep their schedules on time, several things can interfere with flight operations.

Here is the list of reasons for flight delays:

  1. Poor Weather

One of the main reasons for flight delays is weather. Unfavorable meteorological circumstances, such as hurricanes, strong winds, fog, heavy snow, or thunderstorms, can make it dangerous for aeroplanes to take off or land. For instance, heavy crosswinds can make landing challenging, and dense fog can impair pilot visibility. In severe situations, whole airports can close, causing numerous delays and cancellations.

  • Congestion in Air Traffic

Airspace and airports are frequently congested, especially in large cities and during the busiest travel times. When air traffic is heavy, Aircraft may have to fly around a circle before landing or takeoff, which could cause flight delays. According to a Eurocontrol study in 2023, the average flight delay was 17.5 minutes.

  • Technical and Mechanical Problems

Airlines prioritise passenger safety, thus even minor technical problems could result in delays. Aircraft undergo routine maintenance inspections before takeoff, and any issues discovered must be resolved before the aircraft is authorised for flight.

Flight delays may result from a shortage of air traffic controllers, pilots, flight attendants, or ground staff. The number of hours a pilot or crew member may work is limited by severe labor standards that apply to airlines. If a crew member has worked more hours than allowed by law due to previous delays, they may need to be replaced before the flight can proceed. Strikes by airport or airline employees can also interfere with operations and result in major flight delays.

  • Security Concerns

Increased security can cause delays in flights, particularly at international airports. Security concerns may lead to additional screenings, baggage checks, or even last-minute passenger expulsion. If a security threat is found, several flights may temporarily cease operations.

What do you think is the main reason for flight delays? Let us know in the comment section!

Source : Travel Radar

When will Heathrow airport reopen? Everything we know so far about the Hayes fire and travel chaos

Up to 300,000 customers were set to fly through Europe’s busiest and largest airport on Friday

Thousands of passengers are facing delays and cancellations after a massive fire ripped through an electricity substation near Heathrow Airport.

Up to 300,000 customers were set to fly through Europe’s biggest airport on Friday, with around 1,351 flights affected by the mysterious blaze.

Ten fire engines rushed to Nestles Avenue, Hayes, a suburban street around five miles north of the airport, where 70 firefighters tackled the inferno throughout the night from 12am, London Fire Brigade said.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks said London Heathrow and 16,300 homes in Hayes and Hounslow were hit by a widespread power cut due to the fire.

Around 150 residents were evacuated from nearby properties and a 200-metre cordon was put in place around the substation, police said. It is unclear what caused the fire.

What caused the fire?

The London Fire Brigade said it was investigating the cause of the blaze, which is currently unknown and was reported around midnight.

Footage showed the fire ripping through a Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks-managed substation throughout the night, as dozens of firefighters rushed to extinguish it.

Energy minister Ed Miliband told LBC Radio there was no suggestion that there was foul play.

He also told BBC: “It’s obviously an unprecedented event, but we will want to understand both the causes of this event and what lessons, if any, it can teach us.”

Also Read : What you need to know about Kenya’s Leading Travel Industry Payment Summit

 

What is the economic impact?

Air transport consultant John Strickland said Heathrow’s closure will cost the aviation industry millions of pounds.

“It will run into millions. You can’t quantify it yet. Heathrow has normally about 200,000 passengers a day, so it’s a massive impact in lost revenues and disruption costs,” he said.

British Airways owner International Consolidated Airlines Group (IAG)’s share price had plunged four per cent – equivalent to losing more than half a billion pounds in market capitalisation by 8.30am GMT.

How many passengers have been affected?

London Heathrow said it would be closed until midnight on Friday to “maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues”.

Up to 291,000 passengers were set to fly from Heathrow Airport on Friday, with 1,330 flights scheduled throughout the day, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Up to 665 departures were scheduled, equating to over 145,094 seats, and 669 flights were due to arrive, equating to 145,836 seats.

According to flight tracking website FlightRadar24, Australian carrier Qantas Airways sent its flight from Perth to Paris, and a United Airlines New York flight was instead heading to Shannon, Ireland.

EasyJet said it was putting larger aircraft on key routes today and over the weekend to provide additional seats to help customers affected by the Heathrow closure travel today.

Ryanair has also put on extra flights from Dublin to London Stansted “to rescue passengers affected by today’s Heathrow closure”.

When will Heathrow reopen?

Passengers have been asked not to travel to the airport “under any circumstances”, while British Airways said it would not be operating flights out of its global hub “until further notice”.

It is unclear when the airport will reopen. A spokesperson said: “Due to a fire at an electrical substation supplying the airport, Heathrow is experiencing a significant power outage.

“To maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues, Heathrow Airport will be closed until midnight on 21 March.

“Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport and should contact their airline for further information. We apologise for the inconvenience.”

Source : Independent

Airlink introduce more Nairobi and Lusaka flights this month

Southern Africa’s premier regional carrier, Airlink, will increase services to Nairobi and Lusaka with additional flights from 30 March 2025.

Three weekly night-time return flights will operate between Johannesburg and Nairobi, while additional flights will be provided in the morning and the afternoon, to Lusaka.

“The additional Nairobi and Lusaka flights are scheduled to provide business and leisure travellers with greater choices and convenient connections, through Airlink’s Johannesburg hub, with our other domestic and regional services as well as long-haul flights provided by our global airline partners,” said Rodger Foster, Airlink’s CEO and Managing Director.

NAIROBI FLIGHTS

These new flights augment Airlink’s daily service, launched in 2023 when the airline became the first private-sector carrier to compete on the route.

Flight    Weekday            Departure Time               Arrival Time

4Z 070 Daily                   JNB 09.40                         NBO 14.40

4Z 071 Daily                   NBO 15.30                       JNB 18.40

* 4Z 072 Wed, Fri, Sun   JNB 20.30                         NBO 01.30+

* 4Z 073 Mon, Thu, Sat NBO 02.15                       JNB 05.25

*From 30 March 2025 (+ Next/Following morning)

Times of departure and arrival are local times in the respective destinations.

Also Read : What you need to know about Kenya’s Leading Travel Industry Payment Summit

LUSAKA FLIGHTS

Airlink will also add morning and afternoon flights to its popular Johannesburg-Lusaka service, increasing the schedule from 13 to 21 return flights a week.

Flight    Weekday            Departure Time               Arrival Time

4Z 162 Daily                   JNB 11.30                        LUN 13.30

4Z 163 Daily                   LUN 14.15                       JNB 16.30

Flight 4Z 164 Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun     JNB 17.00 LUN 19.00

Flight 4Z 161 Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat      LUN 07.30 JNB 09.35

New services on this route will include:

**4Z 168 Fri, Sun                                       JNB 14.30               LUN 16.30

**4Z 169 Fri, Sun                                       LUN 17.10               JNB 19.15

***4Z 166 Mon. Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat JNB 07.45 LUN 09.45

***4Z 167 Mon. Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat LUN 10.25 JNB 12.30

Source : sustainabilityinthesky.com

KTRIPS 2025: Unveiling Next-Gen Travel Payment Solutions: Smart, Secure, and Seamless

The travel industry in Kenya is on an upward trajectory and as a result the travel payments landscape is taking shape. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reports that in 2024, Kenya contributed 2.67% of the total Middle East and Africa sales, with gross ticket sales of $ 566.8 million, reflecting a 2.11% growth ($11.7 million increase). This translates to over Ksh. 73 billion, which places the industry as a key contributor to the national economy. Beyond the numbers, this growth also implies millions, if not billions, of payment transactions within the industry annually.

KATA Chairman, Dr. Joseph Kithitu, underscores the fundamental role of payments in commerce. At the inaugural Kenya Travel Industry Payment Summit (KTRIPS), he noted, “For any business transaction to be complete, someone has to pay the other.“. His simple yet powerful statement highlights why understanding and adapting to modern payment solutions is essential for the industry’s continued success. The 2024 event convened stakeholders including travel industry leaders, financial institutions, technology providers, and regulatory experts in the travel industry focused on one objective – Exploring the Kenyan Travel Industry Payments Landscape.

The payment system in the travel industry has evolved immensely and now we are in a digital era that prioritizes convenience and security of travelers as they make payments. At this point, it is only prudent to acknowledge that tech-based payment solutions are at the forefront of this quest. The convergence of technology and traditional payment methods has bred cutting-edge solutions for the industry.The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) led by the CEO Nicanor Sabula, the board and a secretariat of forward-thinking individuals, remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring members stay ahead of industry shifts. The association actively advocates for the rapid adoption of emerging payment solutions, reinforcing the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Dr. Kithitu’s message to over 300 KATA members is clear “If we do not keep learning, we will extinguish hence we should not be any lesser.”

This philosophy is what drives the association to host the two-day yearly payment summit to allow solution providers to present these solutions to the target audience directly for efficient use, better customer service, and ultimately business growth. The 2024 summit featured partnerships with leading organizations such as Absa Group, DPO Pay by Network, We Travel, Brij, Union Pay International, Buupass, Intasend, BitKE, and Paystack. Travel agents in attendance gained valuable insights and access to cutting-edge payment solutions, further streamlining their operations and enhancing their customer service.

As the industry gears up for KTRIPS 2025, expectations are high. KATA remains dedicated to fostering a conducive business environment for its members by keeping them informed about the latest developments in payment solutions. The Kenya Travel Industry Payments Summit (KTRIPS 2025) is set to redefine the travel payments landscape on March 26th and 27th at PrideInn Azure, Westlands, Nairobi. With the theme “Unveiling Next-Gen Travel Payment Solutions: Smart, Secure, and Seamless,” the summit will bring together top fintech leaders, payment experts, and travel industry stakeholders to explore groundbreaking innovations shaping the future of digital transactions.

The Event brings together a powerful lineup of industry experts, fintech leaders, and travel payment innovators who are shaping the future of financial transactions in travel. From global payment giants like Visa, DPO Pay by Network ,Flocash,and Pesapay to regulatory authorities such as the Central Bank of Kenya, these speakers will provide critical insights into digital payment innovations, cybersecurity, blockchain, AI-driven automation, and compliance strategies. Attendees will hear from visionaries like Raman Arora (Visa), Ali Hussein Kassim (Association of Fintechs in Kenya), and Sirak Mussie (Flocash), alongside travel payment disruptors like Peter Wachira (Triply) , Christine Kitale (Pesaswap) and others. With expertise spanning B2B payments, financial regulation, and digital commerce, these thought leaders will equip travel businesses with the knowledge to adopt smarter, more secure, and seamless financial solutions.

US to Enforce New Travel Restrictions on 22 African Nations

Angola, Benin, Liberia, and Zimbabwe are among 22 African countries that could soon face US travel bans. 

Angola, Benin, Republic of Congo, Liberia, and Zimbabwe are among the African countries that may soon face travel bans or restrictions in the United States, according to a report by The New York Times.

The Trump administration is reportedly considering a sweeping set of travel restrictions that could impact citizens from 22 African nations. Some could face an outright ban, while others might be given a deadline to address “security concerns.”

A draft list circulating within the administration categorises the affected countries into three groups—red, orange, and yellow—each with varying levels of restrictions.

  • Red List: Countries on this list would be completely barred from entering the United States. Three African nations—Libya, Somalia, and Sudan—are included, alongside North Korea, Iran, Syria, Cuba, and others.
  • Orange List: These countries wouldn’t face a full ban but would see strict visa restrictions. Eritrea, Sierra Leone, and South Sudan are listed alongside Belarus, Pakistan, Russia, and four others. Citizens from these nations may need to undergo in-person interviews and could be barred from obtaining certain visas, such as immigrant or tourist visas.
  • Yellow List: This includes 16 African countries whose citizens will have 60 days to address US concerns or risk being moved into a stricter category. These countries are Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Chad, Republic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, The Gambia, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Zimbabwe.

The proposed restrictions follow President Donald Trump’s executive order on 20 January, which called for tighter security vetting of foreigners entering the US. According to The New York Times, these measures are still under review, and the final list may change before reaching the White House.

Source : Bellanaija.com

SalamAir Launches Only Direct Route Between Oman and Nairobi

SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost airline, has officially launched direct flights between Muscat and Nairobi, strengthening air connectivity between the Sultanate of Oman and Kenya. This new route marks SalamAir’s expansion into East Africa, providing travelers with an affordable and convenient way to explore both destinations.

The inaugural flight touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi on March 17, 2025, welcomed by a special ceremony attended by key officials. Among those present were Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary at Kenya’s State Department for Transport, Her Excellency Nasra Salim Mohamed Al Hashmi, the Omani Ambassador to Kenya, and His Excellency Abdi Aden Korio, the Kenyan Ambassador to Oman.

A Major Step in SalamAir’s Growth

As part of its long-term expansion strategy, SalamAir is increasing its global reach, with Nairobi being the latest addition to its network. Adrian Hamilton-Manns, CEO of SalamAir, highlighted the airline’s commitment to bridging key international markets.

“We are thrilled to expand our network by introducing flights between Muscat and Nairobi. This new route supports our vision to connect Oman to key global destinations, strengthening economic and cultural ties in alignment with Oman Vision 2040,” said Hamilton-Manns.

He further emphasized Nairobi’s strategic significance, citing its role as a major business hub and gateway to Kenya’s thriving tourism sector. The direct link between Oman and Kenya is expected to boost trade, tourism, and investment opportunities while offering a seamless connection for Kenyan travelers heading to the Gulf region and the Indian subcontinent.

A Boost for Bilateral Relations and Tourism

The introduction of SalamAir’s Muscat-Nairobi flights is more than just an aviation milestone—it represents a strengthening of historical and economic ties between Oman and Kenya. Her Excellency Nasra Salim Mohamed Al Hashmi remarked on the positive impact of the new route.

“This new air route is expected to enhance trade, tourism, and investment opportunities, further strengthening economic ties between our two nations. Improved connectivity will facilitate business engagements and promote cultural exchange.”

Kenya, known for its wildlife safaris, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities, is a growing travel destination, while Oman’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes make it an attractive choice for Kenyan tourists. The increased connectivity is anticipated to drive two-way tourism, allowing travelers from both nations to explore new opportunities.

KATA CHAIRMAN DR. JOSEPH KITHITU AND KATA MEMBERS AT SALAM AIR COCKTAIL EVENT AT MOVENPICK

The Only Direct Flight Linking Oman and Kenya

SalamAir is currently the only airline offering direct flights between Oman and Kenya, eliminating the need for lengthy layovers and complex travel itineraries. His Excellency Abdi Aden Korio, the Kenyan Ambassador to Oman, expressed his enthusiasm for the new service.

“This route serves as the single most vital connection for our guests within the travel and tourism industry, the business community, and government officials. Kenya welcomes SalamAir with open arms and looks forward to the continuation of this crucial passenger and cargo transportation between Kenya and Oman.”

As SalamAir continues to expand its footprint, this new service is expected to lay the groundwork for future routes across East Africa, further enhancing regional connectivity.

Source : FTN News

Dubai announces Eid Al Fitr 2025 holidays

The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) has issued a circular announcing Eid Al Fitr holidays.

It states that work across all entities, departments and institutions affiliated with Dubai government will be suspended from the Shawwal 1 ,1446 AH until the 3rd Shawwal 3, 1446 AH.

Official work will resume from Shawwal 4 1446 AH said the DGHR.

Dubai Eid Al Fitr 2025 holiday

The circular further stated that if the month of Ramadan is completed within 30 days, then the 30th day of Ramadan will also be added to the Eid Al Fitr holidays.

It means that:

  • If the new crescent moon is sighted on the 29th day of Ramadan the holiday begins on the first day of Shawal and run until Shawwal 3. This holiday would correspond to Sunday, March 30 until Tuesday, April 1. Taking into account the typical weekend in the UAE, it would mean a four-day holiday
  • If the moon is not sighted, Ramadan will be a day longer and total 30 days. In tis circumstance, Ramadan 30 will also be a holiday as well as the first three days of Shawwal. This would correspond to Monday, March 31 until Wednesday, April 2 being a holiday for the public and private sector

Staff members of various entities, departments and institutions who work on shift basis or those involved in managing public facilities or providing public services are not included in the circular.

To ensure seamless functioning of facilities during this holiday, these entities are responsible for deciding the working hours for the exempt categories in line with their operational needs.

Source : Arabian Business

ATS Travel to accept Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment

Dubai, UAE – ATS Travel, a premier travel management company, and Payhound, a leading provider of fully regulated crypto payment solutions, are pleased to announce a groundbreaking understanding to enable ATS Travel to accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment for all its services. This new development marks a significant milestone in the Middle East’s travel industry, making ATS Travel the first large-scale travel management company in the region to adopt cryptocurrency for both corporate and leisure travel transactions, informed Saleem Sharif, Deputy Managing Director of ATS travel on the sidelines of the travel industry leading event Private Luxury Barcelona, from Private Luxury Events.

Under this historic arrangement, ATS Travel’s clients – many of whom are high-net-worth individuals from across the Middle East – will now have the flexibility to pay for a wide range of travel services, including airline tickets, luxury travel, holiday packages, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Exhibitions, and Events) services, and more, using leading cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others, informed Sharif. This initiative is poised to be a game changer in the travel industry and reflects the region’s growing interest in digital currencies and blockchain technology, added Sharif.

A First in the Middle East

This collaboration is the first of its kind for a company of ATS Travel’s scale and prestige in the Middle East, setting a new benchmark for the industry. With a focus on innovation and forward-thinking business solutions, the understanding with Payhound enables ATS Travel to meet the demands of a tech-savvy, digital-first clientele, particularly those accustomed to high-end services. The implementation of crypto payments is expected to significantly enhance the customer experience by providing seamless, instant, and secure payment options while eliminating the delays and costs typically associated with traditional banking methods, informed Sharif.

Payhound: Pioneering the Future of Payments

Payhound, headquartered in Malta, is a fully regulated crypto payment provider with a proven track record of supporting businesses across multiple industries, including iGaming, financial institutions, e-commerce, affiliate marketing, and more. The company specializes in crypto payment processing, settlements, and large volume trading, offering businesses a secure and efficient way to accept digital currencies for their products and services. And we are excited about the prospect of collaborating with ATS Travel to facilitate acceptance of Crypto Currency as a Form of Payment for them, informed Melissa Lamb, Director of Sales, Luxury at Payhound.

With a Virtual Financial Assets Service Provider (VFAS) license granted by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) in 2021, Payhound is one of the first regulated entities in the space to provide these services. Payhound’s platform ensures businesses can receive payments in seconds, eliminating the delays that are often associated with traditional banking processes, informed Lamb.

A Strategic Move for ATS Travel

The strategic collaboration with Payhound aligns with ATS Travel’s ongoing commitment to providing innovative solutions to its corporate and leisure customers. Khaled Ghubash, Managing Director of ATS Travel, expressed excitement over the proposed partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to be the first travel management company in the Middle East to integrate cryptocurrency payments into our services, once done. This arrangement with Payhound reflects our commitment to offering cutting-edge services that meet the evolving needs of our clients, particularly in a region where cryptocurrency adoption is on the rise.”

Ghubash added, “By offering cryptocurrency payment options, we are not only meeting the demands of high-net-worth individuals and businesses but also positioning ourselves as leaders in an industry that is moving rapidly toward digitalization. We expect this to open new avenues for business and strengthen our relationships with our clients.”

A Bright Future for Digital Payments in Travel

This association signifies a shift towards more modern, flexible payment solutions in the travel industry, particularly in the Middle East, where the cryptocurrency market is seeing increasing growth. ATS Travel’s ability to accept digital currencies will provide corporate clients, leisure travelers, and MICE customers with a more streamlined, faster, and secure way to manage their travel expenses, informed Sharif.

The association between Payhound and ATS Travel is expected to set the stage for further innovations in payment solutions for the global travel industry. The two companies are excited about the potential to further expand this offering and introduce even more groundbreaking services in the future, informed Lamb.

About Payhound

Payhound is a fully regulated cryptocurrency payments solution provider that serves a wide range of industries, including iGaming, financial services, e-commerce, and more. Based in Malta, Payhound offers comprehensive services, including crypto payment processing, settlements, and large-volume trading. Payhound holds a Virtual Financial Assets Service Provider license from the MFSA and is a leader in cryptocurrency payment solutions.

About ATS Travel

ATS Travel is a leading travel management company headquartered in Dubai, UAE, with operations spanning the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and India, and other countries in the Indian Subcontinent. Founded 48 years ago, ATS Travel offers a comprehensive range of travel services, including business travel solutions, airline tickets, luxury travel, holiday packages, cruises, travel insurance, and car hire. Through its fully owned subsidiary, 5th Element Events, the company provides MICE services, and it is part of a global network of travel management companies via its association with ATG Travel Worldwide based in Netherlands. ATS Travel also promotes student and educator trips through partnership with Barton Hill of London.

This announcement marks an important milestone in both the travel and cryptocurrency industries, with Payhound and ATS Travel leading the way toward a more digital and flexible future for travel payments.

Source : Zawya.com

Dubai laws you need to know before visiting

Dubai, a popular winter sun and relocation destination in the Middle East, is a firm favourite among UK holidaymakers.Enticed by its scorching temperatures, desert adventures and high-rise skyline, a record 92.3 million passengers passed through terminals at Dubai International Airport in 2024.While holidays usually pass by without a hitch, there are strict regulations in the UAE and its emirates – both well and lesser-known – that travellers should get familiar with before they book a trip.

Radha Stirling, CEO of London-based legal group Detained in Dubai, stressed the importance of being familiar with the local laws of your travel destination.“Common behaviour doesn’t mean lawful behaviour. It may be common to drink alcohol in Dubai, but it’s also unlawful to possess alcohol in your bloodstream or be drunk. A mere allegation is sufficient to warrant an arrest and people can weaponise the system to have you prosecuted if they so wish,” said Stirling.

She added: “Almost all tourists will be in violation of local laws before they even get on a plane. A number of first-time visitors have been arrested for social media posts or electronic private communications that they made perfectly legally from their own countries.”Holidaymakers risk fines, deportation, arrests and prison sentences if they fail to respect the rules.The Foreign Office (FCDO) warns: “The UAE is a Muslim country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in the UAE.”

Here are the local laws that tourists need to know about to stay out of trouble while visiting Dubai and the UAE.

Dubai laws and rules

Carrying prescription drugs

Don’t be tempted to bring medication into Dubai without first checking if it is considered a “controlled” substance.The FCDO says: “There are strict rules about what medications you can bring into the UAE. You will need approval from the UAE authorities to bring in medication that the UAE classes as narcotic, psychotropic, controlled or semi-controlled.“If you arrive in the UAE without evidence of prior approval, the medication will not be allowed into the UAE, and you may be prosecuted.”You can usually bring up to three months’ supply of medication as a visitor, or one month if the medication requires approval.

Swearing and rude gestures

Swearing or making rude gestures, online or in person, is illegal in the UAE. Travellers can be jailed or deported for such “obscene acts”.

Drinking or possessing alcohol

One of the most important rules to remember for tourists: drinking or being under the influence of alcohol in public is illegal anywhere in the UAE, even if you are over 21. Specifically in the city of Sharjah, north of Dubai, where drinking or possessing alcohol is illegal.Residents of Dubai are legally required to have a liquor licence to buy alcohol to drink at home or private parties. Tourists can get a temporary liquor licence which is valid for one month – these are not required in Dubai to purchase and consume alcohol in licensed venues like hotel bars, restaurants, and pubs.

Hotel regulations

Travellers under 18 take note – you cannot stay in a hotel alone if you’re under 18 years old and not accompanied by an adult.

Pedestrian crossings

As known as “jaywalking” in the US, holidaymakers should note it is illegal to cross roads in Dubai without using the marked pedestrian and zebra crossings.

Ramadan rules

During the holy month of Ramadan, travellers should take extra care to be respectful. Exact dates vary by year and country but the FCDO reminds visitors to be wary of eating, drinking, smoking, swearing, playing loud music or chewing gum in public.

LGBT+ travellers

LGBT+ travellers should be aware that same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the UAE before they travel.According to the FCDO: “The UAE is in many respects a tolerant society and private life is respected. However, there have been reports of individuals being punished for same-sex sexual activity, particularly where there is any public element, or where the behaviour has caused offence. This applies both to foreign national residents and tourists.”

Posting critically of the UAE online

Posting critical or culturally insensitive material is considered illegal in the country – specifically videos and photos reflecting negatively on the UAE government, companies and its nationals.

Showing affection in public

Honeymooners beware: kissing, holding hands and showing affection in public is frowned upon and arrests may be made.

Sexual relationships outside marriage

It is illegal for adults over 18 to have a sexual relationship with a person aged 17 or under. British teen Marcus Fakana, 18, was recently jailed for having consensual sex with a 17-year-old while on holiday in Dubai.Even those partaking in consensual extra-marital relationships risk a six-month prison sentence if either person’s spouse or guardian files a criminal complaint.Unmarried parents may also not be covered by medical insurance and could struggle to obtain a UAE birth certificate unless they get married or provide a joint declaration, certified by a notary public, to acknowledge the child.

Financial crime

Tourists who commit financial crimes in the UAE, including fraud and failure to pay hotel bills, are unlikely to be granted bail while they await prison sentencing. Personal bank accounts and assets can also be frozen.

Packing poppy seeds

Before you pack your favourite bakery products – poppy seeds are strictly banned from entering Dubai.

Drug-related offences

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy for drug offences, including trafficking, carrying and using illegal substances. Penalties can include a three-month prison term, fines up to 100,000 UAE dirham (£21,840) and, in drug trafficking cases, the death penalty. Some CBD, skincare and e-cigarette products are illegal in the UAE due to their ingredients. These will be confiscated and you could face criminal charges.

Fundraising and charity

Before you travel to the UAE, check any charity acts you have planned, including online fundraising, are permitted at your destination.

Using cameras and binoculars

In Dubai, you can be arrested for photographing a person without their consent. It is also illegal to take pictures of some government and military buildings with hobbies that require binoculars likely to “be misunderstood”, say the FCDO.

Media activity

Members of the press must apply for permission to carry out media activity in print or video or risk imprisonment or a fine.

Clothing

Consider packing a modest outfit – for women, this includes covering the shoulders and knees – to avoid causing offence in public areas. Swimwear outside of beaches or at swimming pools and cross-dressing are also illegal.

Checking someone else’s phone

The UAE has strict laws against invading someone’s privacy, including potential jail time for being nosey and checking another person’s phone.

Eating or drinking on public transport

Think again before you pack a picnic for public transport – to help keep the transport system clean, eating and drinking onboard is banned and you could be fined 100 UAE dirham (£21).

Driving etiquette

It’s wise to control your road rage while driving in Dubai – offensive gestures towards other vehicles can lead to fines, a jail sentence, and possibly deportation.The FCDO warns: “Police in the UAE have the power to impound your car for traffic violations that may be considered minor in the UK. They will charge a fee of 50,000 UAE dirham plus a traffic violation fine to release your car.”