When it pertains to what is and is not considered acceptable in Dubai’s culture, there is a lot of conflicting and false information available. Dubai is a thriving, multicultural metropolis where more than 100 different nationalities coexist together. Every year, millions of people visit Dubai, which is a true crossroads of cultures. Although the indigenous population is relatively tiny (about 15%), Emiratis are friendly, welcoming, and extremely tolerant of international visitors and residents. In exchange, it would be extremely welcomed if visitors visiting Dubai spent some time learning about the traditions and culture of the region.
UAE is a Muslim nation. The family is at the heart of the culture, which is founded on a deeply ingrained conviction in Islam. In Dubai, there are numerous mosques, and the lovely “adhan” call to prayer can be heard five times day. Although government agencies and several multinational corporations are closed on Saturday, the weekend officially begins on Friday. On Fridays at noon, mosques will be packed with worshipers gathered to hear a sermon. Though certain major retail establishments, including Carrefour, and the majority of large supermarket stores remain open as usual on Fridays, most retailers open about 2 PM. Although English is almost universally spoken and Arabic is the official language, all street signs are also in both languages.
Outside of the beach, it is more socially acceptable for women to eschew miniskirts, midriff-baring tops, and shorts, and for males to refrain from going shirtless or wearing shorts. For ladies, mid-length skirts or Capri pants with t-shirts or blouses are regarded as fairly appropriate. Typically, Muslim women throughout the Gulf States wear the “abaya,” a long, black robe. The “abaya” is a cultural habit rather than an Islamic necessity. Islam mandates that women cover their heads at all times and wear long, flowing garments that cover their arms and legs. Gulf men don a loose, usually white robes called a “dishdasha” and a headpiece called a “gutra” that has white or red checkered fabric. A black string holding the gutra in place is called an “agal”
Although Arabs are among the friendliest people on earth, tourists should nonetheless be aware of a few cultural customs when engaging with locals. Before snapping a picture of a local woman, it is essential to get her permission. Most likely, she will say no. Visitors should be informed that several Muslim women and men follow Islamic practice and refrain from shaking hands with people of the opposite sex. It is better to be patient and see if the other person offers their hand first, but this shouldn’t be interpreted as an affront. Typically, local guys may kiss cheeks or touch noses to meet other local males.
Public shows of affection between people of different sexes are strongly discouraged, however you will occasionally witness guys (often Asian expats) walking hand in hand with other men. This is only a gesture of friendship and a cultural standard. There are several rules to follow if you are given the opportunity to join a local family for coffee, tea, or a traditional meal. It is customary to take off shoes before entering a residence. It is impolite in Arab Muslim culture to point the bottoms of your feet in anyone’s direction when you are seated. The right hand should be used to eat and drink (and there will be enough of it! ), while the left hand is only for “unclean” activities like washing after using bathroom.
Both Muslims and non-Muslims in Dubai are obligated (by law) to abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public during the holy month of Ramadan. All that is actually required is a little care and consideration for the host culture. The worst that could happen if a guest makes an error and eats, drinks, or smokes in public is that someone will politely remind them of the season and urge them to stop. Many malls now include restaurants that are screen off from visitors and open throughout the day in Ramadan for non-Muslims, even if the majority of eateries will be shut during the day (or serving take-out only). Additionally, eating and drinking are entirely permissible for non-Muslims.
Women are encouraged to dress a little more conservatively during Ramadan by refraining from wearing short skirts or sleeveless tops. During Ramadan, time seems to flow a little more slowly, and Muslim employees are required by law to work fewer hours per day. In general, tourists must exercise greater cultural sensitivity throughout the Holy Month, although after the fast-breaking each day, the city comes to life and is a great time to go if you want to get a taste of the local flavor.
Visitors should make the most of their stay to the United Arab Emirates to learn about the local culture even if Dubai is most known for its shopping. The Dubai Museum, housed in a former ancient fort, is a must-see for visitors of all ages and features displays of the desert, national costumes, weapons, and the pearl diving industry upon which Dubai was once formed. The Heritage and Diving Village has modest stores and eateries as well as exhibits showcasing Dubai’s marine past. The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding, which also offers additional year-round activities like mosque tours and Arabic classes, offers cultural awareness programs and enlists young UAE citizens to educate tourists and locals about Dubai culture and history.