The Dubai Code allows holding hands between couples. But this is only limited to couples that are already married. Public displays of affection are offensive acts to the public when in Dubai. It is wise to avoid PDA when in the country. I would have to make this clear. In theory, men and women holding hands in public in Dubai are fine. This act will never lead to a problem unless it is the season of Ramadan. The same should also pose a problem in Sharjah. In Dubai, you can easily see couples walking in malls and other public places holding hands. You see them in malls. You see them in shopping centers. You see them in parks and all other public places. Everywhere, you will see couples of the opposite sex holding hands. However, there is something that you should know. Public display of affection is offensive to the locals of Dubai. You can hold hands, yes. But you risk offending the locals. As you can see, the Dubai Code allows such acts only to married couples. There is a certain level of tolerance for unmarried ones. But if I were you, just do not run the risk of offending the locals. And yes, holding hands as unmarried couples is offensive.