Brits heading on holidays this summer are being warned to check the rules for taking photos in public spaces as some countries have some hefty fines in place if you get it wrong
There’s nothing quite like a holiday selfie with an appropriately smug caption (‘How’s your Monday going?’ always seems to be a popular choice).
However, Brits heading on Dubai holidays should take note of the UAE’s privacy laws before getting their phone out in public spaces, or they could risk some hefty fines.
Luxury travel specialists at eShores have warned: “One wrong snap could bankrupt your holiday budget. Taking photographs of people without explicit consent is classed as a serious privacy violation in the UAE, with tourists facing eye-watering fines of up to 500,000 AED (£110,000) or even imprisonment. Cameras are strictly banned in government buildings, certain palaces, and designated areas throughout the emirate, so that Instagram story could literally cost you your freedom.”
The experts warn that in general, no matter where you’re travelling, it’s worth avoiding snapping photos in certain settings, for example in certain religious sites, government facilities, military and security zones, or public spaces where there are strict privacy laws, the latter being the case for Dubai.
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It’s not the first time that Brits have been urged to think twice before snapping a photo. In its UAE travel advice, the UK Foreign Office also warns Brits against “taking photos in secure areas”. A statement explains: “It is illegal to take photos of some government buildings and military installations. Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood, particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports.
“Do not photograph people without their permission. Men have been arrested for photographing women on beaches.”
Meanwhile, you’ll also want to be mindful of what you’re posting on social media. The Foreign Office warns: “It is illegal to post material, including videos and photographs, online that is critical of the UAE government, companies or individuals, or which relates to incidents in the UAE. This includes material which appears to abuse, ridicule or criticise the country or its authorities. Material that is culturally insensitive may also be considered illegal.”
It’s not just Dubai where you may want to think before you get your camera out. In Japan, you could also face fines for taking photos in no-camera zones, although these are around the £55 mark. The eShores insiders explained: “Train stations, traditional ryokan inns, and historic geisha districts like Kyoto’s world-famous Gion quarter all enforce strict no-camera policies. That candid shot of a geisha could land you a ¥10,000 (£55) fine – not to mention serious cultural offence.”
Gavin Lapidus, the travel firm’s founder, added: “While social media has transformed how we document our travels, it’s crucial that holidaymakers understand local laws and cultural sensitivities. What seems like an innocent holiday snap can result in serious legal consequences.
“We always recommend travellers research photography restrictions before they travel, or better yet, speak to experienced travel consultants who understand each destination’s cultural nuances and legal requirements. A few minutes of preparation could ultimately save you thousands of pounds in fines.”
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