Selfies and photos in Dubai can land you a fine of up to $150,000, while in Spain, that figure could reach nearly $30,000.
Capturing moments through photos is a wonderful way to preserve travel memories. However, a beautiful picture taken in the wrong place could lead to serious legal trouble for tourists.
Senior travel experts at eShores (UK) warn that many seemingly harmless actions, such as taking photos or posting on social media, can violate privacy or copyright laws in certain destinations worldwide.
Here are 5 destinations where a single photo could cost tourists dearly.
Dubai, UAE
Potential Fine: Up to $150,000
In Dubai, tourists are generally free to take photos at tourist attractions for personal use. However, photographing others without their consent violates UAE privacy laws and can result in fines of up to 500,000 AED ($150,000) or even imprisonment.
Furthermore, cameras are strictly prohibited in government buildings, military zones, special palaces, and certain designated areas. An ill-timed “Instagrammable” shot could cost you your entire vacation, or even your freedom.
Japan
Potential Fine: Up to 10,000 Yen ($70)
Japan prohibits photography not only in temples and shrines but also in train stations and ryokans (traditional inns). In geisha districts like Gion (Kyoto), many streets also forbid photography to protect the privacy of the performers.
Taking a photo of a geisha without their permission, even a selfie, can result in a 10,000 Yen fine and be considered a serious cultural insult.
South Korea
Potential Penalty: Imprisonment
South Korea’s “Right to Facial Control” law dictates that individuals have the right to control their personal images. Photographing others without permission, even in public places, can lead to legal issues for the violator, including imprisonment.
Additionally, the use of unregistered selfie sticks can also result in penalties, though this is not yet widely enforced.
Spain
Potential Fine: Over $35,000
The Gag Law (Citizen Security Law), enacted in 2015, controversially prohibited photographing or video recording police without permission. While the law has since been relaxed, it still strictly forbids using images that could compromise police safety or operations.
Taking a selfie with police in a public place can result in fines ranging from $700 to $35,000. This law is often strictly applied during protests or in sensitive areas like airports.
Portofino, Italy
Potential Fine: Up to nearly $300
In the famous town of Portofino, if you linger too long to take photos in designated “no-waiting zones,” you could face a fine of nearly $300. This measure aims to reduce overcrowding and pedestrian congestion during peak season.
Gavin Lapidus, founder of eShores, noted that the average Brit takes about 14 selfies a day while traveling. He emphasized that understanding the legal and cultural regulations of a destination is essential for all tourists.
“It’s best to consult with experienced travel advisors who are familiar with local laws and customs,” he advised.
Experts also caution visitors to be especially careful when taking photos at or near religious sites, government facilities, cultural museums, military areas, copyrighted works, and public places with specific privacy regulations.
(According to DM)
