Q: I am a Dubai resident and have an alcohol licence. I plan to go
camping
in Fujairah, where there is no need to hold
a licence to drink alcohol. I intend to consume alcohol during this trip but I have to drive through the emirate of Sharjah, where drinking alcohol is prohibited. Do I have the right to carry alcohol through Sharjah and what would happen if I am stopped by the police or if I'm involved in a car crash?
A: Sharjah prohibits consumption and possession of alcohol, so no-one is allowed to take it through the emirate. Violations are punishable by law and violators will be held accountable. According to Article 313 of the Penal Code, while taking into account the rules for non-Muslims, the penalty for consuming alcohol in Sharjah is imprisonment for no less than one month and no more than six months or a fine of no less than Dh1,000 and no more than Dh2,000, or both.
Q: I live by the seaside and I see many tourists walking in the streets in swimming suits. Can the police stop them and ask them to wear decent clothing? What is the fine for such a violation?
A: Public beaches are designed for swimming and strolling, so swimwear is permitted, though in accordance with the conditions and the standards of public ethics, beachwear is only allowed within the seaside area. However, it is not permissible to walk down the street in swimwear. If the police stop someone in this case officers could: 1) If the person is a tourist and they do not have a previous violation in the UAE, warn about the UAE's public ethics and caution the individual or, 2) If the person is a resident and should be aware of the rules police may be ask them to visit a police station to sign that they will not do it again. The person may even face a criminal case for violation of public ethics and tradition, which could lead to a fine.
Q: If I lose my temper in a shop, can I be arrested?
A: Everyone should act in a manner that does not violate the law. It is important to stay calm and avoid causing harm to other people or their property. No one is entitled to transgress in a retail outlet, say or do anything that could cause panic or fear among shoppers, or be harmful to staff, either by word or action. Offenders could indeed be arrested and would be liable under civil and penal laws.
If you have a question for our lawyer, please email it to newsdesk@thenational.ae with the subject line "Know the law".