Anyone live in Dubai?

[nappyaddict]

Me and DP are thinking about visiting his friend that lives there but we have concerns cos obviously we aren't married and we don't want to feel restricted, we want to be able to enjoy our holiday.

Can an unmarried couple share a hotel room?

Is a quick kiss in public, holding hands, hugging etc allowed?

And not really to do with DP but can I wear a bikini around the pool/on the beach or sunbathe topless?

Can I wear vest tops, boob tubes, halternecks (they would cover my stomach) and shorts (not hot pants)

Don't live in Dubai but have visited so can offer some help.

Staying in a big hotel as an unmarried couple is ok. The smaller, independent ones may not be so accommodating though

Kissing, holding hands etc, in public, is frowned upon. The malls have labels on the doors with no holding hands pictured alongside the no smoking signs!

Bikini on a private beach or round hotel pool is fine, more discreet swimwear needed for public beaches and definately no topless sunbathing

Vest tops etc are all ok as are ordinary shorts and skirts. Very short shorts/skirts would be frowned upon and you may get unwanted attention from men also.

Hopr this helps a bit

Is it just in the malls kissing, holding hands etc is frowned upon or also in the hotels, beaches etc.

We lived in Oman and visited Dubai regularly. I would be cautious about any public displays of affection, given recent incidents.
I would say be respectful of the country you are visiting, if you are staying at a hotel you'll be able to kiss and hold hands all you want. In your room.
I would avoid all clothing that is super revealling, boob tubes are a definite no no.
As you are considering visiting friends couldn't they guide you? Also, be aware that Ramadhan has just started so people will be ultra vigilent and you won't be able to eat or drink (in public) during the day.

In order to not attract unwanted attention I would keep fairly covered up. Sensitive areas are thighs, shoulders, midriffs and cleavage I would say. If in doubt have a look in the Lonely planet travel guide as they normally have good advice re. this. There is also good advice here.