Dubai is making a major play for tourism, but only of a “proper kind.” Hotel guests may find themselves required to study etiquette guides that are left out on tables during brunch which warn couples to “get a room” rather than have too much fun on the beach.
One couple in their mid-30s, Michelle Palmer, 36, and Vince Acors, 34 wound up in jail after they “were found guilty of having sexual intercourse outside marriage and offending public decency.”
It seems that in Dubai, anything more than an innocent peck on the cheek can get a couple arrested. Who would have thought, two Brits were having sex on the beach (the real kind, not the drinks) and ended up with a fine and being sentenced to three months in jail.
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Proper Tourism
- There is a growing trend in destination cities, like Dubai, to promote proper etiquette and behavior among tourists, opening opportunities for businesses that offer etiquette guide services or promote responsible tourism.
- PDA Regulations
- The regulation of public displays of affection (PDA) is becoming an important issue in certain destinations, such as Dubai, creating opportunities for businesses that specialize in educating tourists on local customs and regulations regarding PDA.
- Legal Consequences
- The increasing legal consequences for public displays of affection and sexual activities in public places highlight the need for businesses that offer legal advice and services for tourists who may find themselves in trouble in unfamiliar destinations.
Sectors Adopting This
- Travel and Hospitality
- The travel and hospitality industry can capitalize on the trend of promoting proper tourism by offering etiquette guides and training for tourists staying in destination cities like Dubai.
- Education and Training
- Businesses that specialize in educating tourists on local customs and regulations regarding PDA can find opportunities in the travel and tourism industry by partnering with hotels and tour operators.
- Legal Services
- Legal services providers catering to tourists can take advantage of the growing need for legal advice and assistance for travelers who find themselves in legal trouble due to PDA or other activities in unfamiliar destinations.
