Dubai Professional and qualified masseurs and masseuses in Dubai have the right to give massages to customers of the opposite sex. However, other conditions like health and professionalism have to be maintained to practice this activity, the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai told Gulf News.

"[Masseurs and masseuses] have to be licensed and approved by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and DED, said Mohammad Al Shael, CEO of the Business Registration and Licensing Division at DED.

However, Dubai Government has tightened the rules of practising massage to make sure the rights of customers are protected. According to DED, the parlour's location and interior designs must conform to the rules.