Governing Your Social Behavior in Dubai

Overview

Despite being mostly a Muslim nation, Dubai does not have any strict prohibitions or guidelines for tourists. The regulations of UAE tradition are among the most lenient of the Emirates in the United Arab Emirates, giving visitors and ex-pat businesspeople the freedom they need.

It is our responsibility as visitors to any foreign place to control their social behavior or conduct following the local norms. Visitors' attire choices are more liberated in UAE culture and heritage than in other Arab/Muslim nations, and they are also free to move throughout the city. Of course, there are restrictions on you that you must abide by. A few years ago, it was prohibited to show flesh in public spaces like malls, beaches, etc. These regulations have now been loosened (in light of the booming tourism industry), and visitors who are female are now permitted to dress in "western" apparel subject to certain limitations. At hotel pools as well as exclusive beaches, bathing suits are acceptable. With large signboards, Dubai legislation makes it clear what should be worn in public spaces. There is a dress code for males as well, albeit it is not as strict as it is for women. Don't dress garishly or offensively, and be careful not to be too assertive.

In Dubai, Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, is of paramount significance. As one of the Five Essentials of Islam, this event takes place in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The new moon sighting determines when the event takes place, therefore the dates are never set. In this holy month, visitors and tourists are required to abide by all strict regulations from dawn to sunset as a mark of respect. Alcohol, dancing, chewing gum, smoking, and singing are not permitted in public throughout the day. Since this is required by Dubai law, no eateries or bars will be open during this period. The restaurants, bars, and stores come alive after sunset since they stay up all night.

Dress

In the area, there are two different categories of women's clothing: one for natives and one for foreigners. The majority of Arab women must cover the majority of their bodies, from head to foot when they leave the house since this is required by Islamic tradition and UAE culture and traditions. The hair is covered and the customary black overgarment (abaya) has long sleeves as well as a high neck. Some Arab women completely cover themselves, including their hands and faces, particularly Saudi women and women whose husbands adhere to stringent Islamic laws. The purpose of this is to shield women from unwanted attention. In Saudi Arabia, even foreign women are required to wear a face veil outside the house. The religious cops will stop any woman with her head exposed and demand that she quickly covers her hair. While wearing western clothing is permitted in those other UAE states, international women should always dress modestly.

Dubai general etiquette

• Before giving your Arab buddy a drink, be sure he's drinking alcohol.
• Maintain a straight line with your legs when sitting and avoid crossing them.
• Always eat and drink using your right hand since in the Arabic cultural values of UAE using your left hand is seen as unclean.
• Avoid exposing the bottoms of your shoes or feet since doing so is seen as a sign of contempt.
• When a Muslim is in prayer, avoid approaching him or staring at him.
• You need permission to visit a mosque if you're not a Muslim.
• Never accuse someone else; this is regarded to be exceedingly insulting.
• No showing of love in public.
• At all costs, refrain from becoming aggressive.
• Before taking pictures of locals, get their permission.

Greetings

Salam Alaykum, which means "Peace be upon you," is the most typical greeting in the Gulf. Wa Alaykum as-Salam, which translates to "And then upon you be peace," is the proper answer.

As in English, tisbah ala-khayr, which means "good night," is spoken upon departure, and the response is wa inter- and intra min ahlu. When introducing themselves to and leaving an Arab man, guys should always shake hands. You should follow an Arab woman's lead based on her behavior as many won't hold hands with non-Arab males, while educated ladies could. Even with good friends, you see regularly, this is typical. Devout Muslims wouldn't touch a woman who isn't related, thus ladies should wait to observe how the interlocutor welcomes them. In this situation, covering your heart with your hand is the better option.

Feet and Hands

Remember to always use your right hand while drinking and eating since the left hand is considered unclean (as it is used for "toilet duties"). You should accept refreshments whenever they are provided. Similarly, you should refrain from exposing the bottoms of your boots or feet, since doing so conveys the insulting idea that the other person is "dirt." Therefore, you shouldn't cross your legs and maintain your feet flat just on the ground.

Invitations

You must always accept an invitation to an Arab's house. In general, you should seize any chance to mingle with the locals and resist the urge to isolate yourself to your foreign 'ghetto"s' physical and social boundaries. Your Arab friend will be curious about your opinions. However, even if they may appear reasonable for you from a western viewpoint, you should steer clear of talking about politics and religion since they may be seen as uninformed or even disrespectful.

Additionally, it's crucial to understand that showing respect by standing up whenever a senior or high-ranking individual enters the room. When a woman enters the room with them, males should likewise stand up. If you're sharing a meal, this is extremely crucial.