Etiquette in Dubai – Important Tips

Etiquette

Dubai is a fabulous city. This wonder city was one that a few decades ago used to be a desert land but had now been transformed into one of the most updated cities across the globe. Such was the city, surprising and shocking the whole world with its architectural wonder. It was some etiquette in Dubai where one could view the world’s tallest building, the biggest artificial island, the world’s most magnificent flower garden which sees millions of flowers blooms each day, the biggest mall in the world, an aquarium inside the mall, and an indoor ski park inside the mall. And an indoor ski park inside the mall.

Some of the little things this city presents to its people, expats, and even tourists. It is far behind all this modernity, though, but still, the place remains to be less sticking to its religion, culture and traditions. There is some etiquette that you have to follow when you are in Dubai.
Some of you might find that some of the etiquettes and norms regressive. You have to understand the fact that Dubai is part of an Islamic country. Most of their etiquettes and norms have roots from their religion. As a tourist you have a responsibility to showing respect towards the culture and religion of the place you are visiting etiquette. Apart from the tourists people who visit the place only for work reasons too must be aware of some common etiquettes in Dubai. You must remember that not abiding to certain etiquettes is not only offensive but also a punishable crime. With this note, let’s consider some of the etiquettes that you must follow when in Dubai as well as any other part of UAE.

1- Clothing

Nothing can be close to the word ‘conservative’ for the city of Dubai when it comes to the clothing. After all, it is one of those cities of the world that boasts of almost all of the major brands of stores. So you can really be the best version of your fashionable self when in the city while taking a sightseeing tour, for example, a Dubai dhow cruise or Private Desert Safari, for example. However you have to cover all your shoulders, cleavage, arms and legs up to the knee when moving out in public. There is no dress code applicable in pubs and discos in Dubai. In other words, put anything on. And all that’s not free and you may need a shawl or a jacket handy, just in case to keep at least covered for yourself while traveling to the disc or pub and back.
Besides, you can wear bikini while you are either at the beach or pool side area. However, do not wear G-string bikini. Swimwear should not be worn in public places. Also while you are visiting mosques, religious places or the old areas of the city, you would require wearing decent covered clothes. For women, covering of head is a must while visiting mosques.

2- Photography

There would be so many wonders all around you that you cannot keep your camera down while going around sightseeing in Dubai. Although you might click pictures of the beautiful moment and sceneries in Dubai, there are certain things you must remember. You would need permission before you clicked pictures in mosques, religious institutions, and government buildings. There must not be any photography of Emirati women. If you would like to take some of the Emirati boy’s pictures then you will need to ask permission first.

3- Drinking

Dubai has plenty of pubs and bars. They are smart and posh. But there is an etiquette attached to drinking in Dubai. Alcohol is available only in the hotels and in the bars. Although you can buy a small quantity of alcohol, duty free from the shops at the airport. You should avoid drinking in public. You should never drive drunk no matter the small quantity you took is. Dubai does not owe time for drinking and driving and once caught you may expect much hassle.

4- Ramadan

Ramadan is that sacred month when Muslims fast during the day. They have to adhere to some strict rules, and that has to be seriously followed also if you are staying or visiting Dubai in December during the season. You should never eat and drink in public. Some places like some hotels and malls are kept only for non-Muslims for relishing meals and beverages in the day time. Never ever eat or drink in front of a Muslim during the season.5.Behavior
And behavior-wise, here are some Do and Don’ts to remember to bear in mind during your time in Dubai:

• Do not be too demonstrative in public. Refrain from kissing, hugging and embracing each other even in public, even with your spouse. You’re good in holding hands and cheek pecking’s as well.
• Do not swear or yell in public places. It would soon cause a quite strict fine and imprisonment also.
• Be careful with your gesture with your hands. Never use an obscene gesture to any person. If one uses an obscene gesture against any person then he will be considered as a very serious offender and may lead to deportation and even send to the prison. When you want to point out something, you should point it out with the whole hand and not with your finger.
• Avoid extending your hand for a handshake when you greet Emirate women. If she extends her hand to be shaken, you can shake her hand as well.
• When elders enter the room, both females, and even those persons who rank a level higher than them, stand up.
• You will have to use your right hand when you take food and drinks. Avoid crossing your legs or pointing your feet at people since these are considered rude gestures.
• Some drugs have been banned in Dubai and you must make an effort that you do not carry any with you when you visit Etiquette in Dubai.

Dubai is a friendly city, warm in welcoming not only expats but even tourists too. And in return, we-being in that place for whatever reason-are obligated to respect, following their etiquette, rules, and code of conduct. And doing this would make you enjoy your Dubai visit more hassle-free.