In the recent years the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has become one of the most popular resort destinations. Going on vacation or on business in the UAE, you should be aware of the rules of the laws in force and the peculiarities of local law that will allow you avoiding many unpleasant surprises and difficulties related to the law. It is not a secret that the legal framework of the United Arab Emirates has a certain specifics due to the fact that many of the customs and traditions are based on the rules of the Islamic law.
State Structure of the Emirate
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the oldest independent Arab kingdoms making part of the UAE. The state control system of the Emirate is based on the principles of federal public formation. The Emirate is independent in making decisions on the allocation, administration and disposal of water and land resources, as well as on matters of local self-administration.
All the laws and regulations in force are governed by the rules of the main legislative act - the Constitution of the UAE. The Constitution of the Emirates also has its own specifics, as it uses as the main legal source the code of Muslim customs and laws. Since the UAE is a Muslim country, the code of Muslim rules of law – the Sharia - is the primary legal source of all legal acts, including the criminal code.
Note for tourists:
Foreign guests and tourists of the Emirate must be aware that violation of many rules of law is subject to quite severe fines here. The feasibility and effectiveness of such approach speak for themselves, as the UAE have the minimum crime rate. Staying in the Emirates you should respect cultural and historical traditions of the local population. Remember, it is inadmissible to commit acts that are obscene from a religious point of view.
In addition, you should be respectful with the female half and their religious feelings. The rules of Sharia do not allow rough treatment to homemaker. You must not stick to a strange woman or ridicule her, making obscene signs and explicit gestures to her are unacceptable. Control your turns of speech and avoid offensive words. If a foreign guest dears to offend a local woman, he will have to pay a significant fine and will be subject to immediate deportation.
Significant fines are provided for landfilling; law enforcement agencies strictly supervise the keeping cleanliness and order. However, you will be sure of this when you will come to the Emirates. Almost everything here clearly shines and scents. By the way, do not throw garbage out of the car on the move, since it will also entail serious fines.
Do not take with yourself drinks and avoid drinking them in public places; this is especially relevant during the celebration of national Muslim holidays. If in one Emirate such actions can entail some difficulties with the law, in other they are treated as criminal offences. You should not walk around in public places and on streets being drunk; this may offend the locals and cause many problems.
By the way it worth mentioning that Ras Al Khaimah in this regard is somehow liberal, no prohibition is applicable here.
Persons consuming and distributing psychotropic and narcotic substances are subject to criminal liability. It is important to note that in this matter the law enforcement agencies of the UAE are particularly vigilant. For example, if in a trip you need to take some medicines or remedies, be ready to submit at the airport a document confirming the need for such medicines. This may be an extract from the sick leave certificate or recommendation of the attending physician, etc.
Moreover visiting nightclubs and discos refrain from doubtful contacts and acquaintances. Local fighters against drug trafficking often practice provocative schemes, when an infiltrator offers to tourist to buy drugs. Be extremely cautious and you will avoid troubles and problems with local law enforcement agencies.
The current legislation imposes restrictions on taking photos or videos of government buildings, military and strategic structures, as well as private property without appropriate permission of the owner. Refrain from taking photos of representatives of the female half, and before taking photos with the locals, you must get their approval.
Ras Al Khaimah Laws and Regulations and Sanctions against violators
Violators of the current legislation of the Emirates risk having a lot of problems and troubles. Serious offences may lead to appropriate punishment; it may be both significant monetary fines and restrictions on freedom of the violator.
It should be noted that state law enforcement agencies the UAE have a high degree of loyalty to foreign guests and try their best to smooth out the conflicts that arise. However, this does not mean that criminal acts will remain unpunished. A foreign guest who violated the law may be prohibited to visit the country in the future.
Citizenship and Residence Visas
As for the acquisition of citizenship of the United Arab Emirates, the rules of law are strict and contain significant limitations. It should be understood that it is practically impossible for a foreigner to get a passport of the UAE national. However, the government fully compensates such limitations by allowing foreigners making business and purchasing real estate in the state.
In addition, there is an opportunity to get fast enough a resident visa by incorporation an international company in UAE. Owners of such companies have the opportunity to obtain a residence visa, both for themselves and for members of their family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can say that in this country all is based on Sharia - religion and culture, policy and economy, lifestyle and relationship. The rules of law evolved over the centuries and are a part of the common historical heritage of the Arab people. Visiting the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, you should be aware of this and show a decent attitude.
In this case, you will surely see that a certain severity of the laws gives its clear advantages - as mentioned above, the crime rate in the UAE is extremely low, and you can be absolutely sure about your safety while staying in the country.
