Countries where tourists are prohibited from taking photos - Be careful

UAE (United Arab Emirates)

In Dubai, it is forbidden to photograph people without their consent – this is considered a violation of privacy. The fine is up to 500,000 dirhams (over $130,000) or imprisonment.

Japan

Photography in temples, at train stations, and in some traditional inns (ryokan) is prohibited. In addition, taking photos of residents without permission may be considered an invasion of privacy. In Kyoto, especially in the Gion district, photographing geishas is prohibited – the fine is up to 10,000 yen (about $100).

France

It is forbidden to photograph people in public places without their consent, especially children. This violates the personal data protection law.

Italy

In the Vatican, particularly in the Sistine Chapel, photos are strictly prohibited. Moreover, in some Italian museums, only flash-free photography is allowed, and sometimes photography is completely banned.

And in Portofino, a fine of 275 euros has been introduced for tourists who stop to take selfies in certain "red zones" and create traffic jams.

In many countries of the world, it is forbidden to take pictures of government buildings (photo: freepik.com)

India

Photography at airports, military sites, and near government buildings is prohibited. There are also religious sites where photography is not allowed – these are ancient temples such as the Jagannath Temple in Puri. At best, it ends with a large fine, at worst – with arrest.

South Korea

Any photography of people without permission is punishable under the law that prevents sexual violence. The fine is up to 10 million won (over $7,500) or 5 years in prison.

North Korea

Any photography is under control. Taking photos on your own can lead to prison. Photography is only allowed when accompanied by a guide and in permitted locations.

Israel

It is forbidden to photograph government and military facilities. Especially strict rules apply near borders and security zones.

Egypt

Photos of residents without permission are taboo. The government has introduced strict restrictions on photographing government buildings and infrastructure. New rules from 2022 clarify that phone photos for personal use are allowed, but with certain exceptions.

While traveling, do not photograph people without their consent (photo: freepik.com)

Turkey

Photos of military sites and personnel are strictly prohibited. You may be fined or investigated. Photographing police officers or demonstrations is also forbidden – this is considered espionage or a security threat. It is regarded as a very serious offense, even if done accidentally.

Thailand

At Phuket beach, photographing in the runway zone can result in a fine of 40,000 baht ($1,300) or imprisonment for up to 20 years. Also, if you are deemed a particularly dangerous offender, the court may issue a death penalty, according to the aviation law.

Egypt

Currently, the country has relaxed bans on street photos by tourists, but photographing children or taking pictures that may "harm the country's image" is prohibited.

Qatar

Any photography of residents, especially women, without consent is a legal violation. In 2021, tourists were even warned about this in hotels.

Saudi Arabia

In addition to religious restrictions, photographing state institutions, police officers, and women is taboo. The punishment is a fine or deportation.

Singapore

The government strictly regulates photography in public places, especially near government buildings. Photography in museums and exhibitions is allowed only with permission.

Morocco

Residents, especially women, usually do not give consent for photos. Photographing police and government buildings is prohibited.

For photographing children or police in some countries, you can go to prison (photo: freepik.com)

Cuba

Military and government facilities cannot be photographed. For violations – equipment may be confiscated or a fine issued.

Norway

This country is loyal to tourists, but in certain areas, there may be photography issues. This applies to regions with military bases or secret facilities in the north – photography there is forbidden. Tourists have been repeatedly detained for photographing radars or marine facilities that are considered strategic.

Tips for tourists

Always check local laws before traveling. Every country has its specific fines that you may not be aware of.

Avoid photographing near military facilities, government buildings, and do not take pictures of residents without their consent.

Be careful with the use of drones – in many countries, a special permit is required.

Travel apps and embassy websites are the best sources of verified information before your trip.

Sources: Forbes, Lonely Planet, The Independent, The Telegraph, CNN Travel, Japan Today, Al Jazeera, Global News Canada