The emiratis hold hospitality and etiquette in high regard. When you visit Dubai, it is good to acquaint yourself with their etiquette to avoid inadvertently behaving in a manner that may be considered rude. Dubai is an Islamic city, so you should be modest in your mannerisms.
Hospitality and etiquette entail dress code, gifting, and business etiquette. You must respect the traditions and culture of Dubai to enjoy a seamless vacation. Remember Dubai is a conservative city that takes culture and religion seriously.
This article will expound on standard etiquette you must be aware of when you travel to Dubai.
Greeting Etiquette
Nothing feels better than extending a friendly hello to those who are nearby. In the UAE, the standard salutation is “salaam alaikum,” which translates to “be peace unto you.” When someone greets you with these words, you should respond with “alaikum assalam,” which is Arabic for “and peace to you.”
Arab men typically shake hands when they meet someone, though not as hard as western males. Remember that you shouldn’t shake hands with people of the opposite sex unless they initiate it. Always extend your right hand when offering a greeting.
Dress Etiquette
Islamic people are not especially receptive to women exposing too much skin in public. Although it might not fit your contemporary idea, it’s advisable to dress appropriately while having fun in the UAE. Dressing decently does not mean covering every inch of your body, but avoiding revealing dresses is preferable.
For swimming pools and private beaches, swimsuits, shorts, and bikinis are acceptable, but you should cover yourself a little bit as soon as you approach public areas.
Although women in the UAE are not required to cover their heads at all times, they must do so when entering mosques or other places of worship.
Cross-dressing can land you in serious trouble with the authorities.
Gifting and Visiting Etiquette
Gifting is customary in the UAE. Don’t forget to bring some pastries, chocolates, flowers, and fruits when you’re invited somewhere.
Unless otherwise directed, you should take off your shoes upon entering someone’s home. If you’re the host, don’t offer alcohol and pork to Muslim guests. It is traditional to eat with your right hand. You should also use the right hand to receive food and drinks.
Eating everything on the plate suggests that you’re still hungry. Leave a small amount of food on your plate to indicate that you’re satisfied.
Never turn down coffee when it’s offered. If you notice incense being passed around, that’s your cue to leave, as it indicates meal time is over.
Ramadan Etiquette
Throughout the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating or drinking anything during the day. Although such Islamic practices do not apply to non-Muslims, it is harmless to be sensitive to those who are fasting.
Don’t consume food in front of a person who is fasting during the day during Ramadan. You can request food to be delivered to your hotel room, but it’s rude to drink or chew in public.
Business Etiquette in Dubai
Dubai has been transformed into a leading business hub. If you intend to handle any business, consider the following etiquette.
Dress Modestly
Most Emirati women wear an abaya, a flowing black garment that covers most of the body, and Emirati men wear a kandura, an ankle-length white shirt. Expats are free to dress traditionally, but a business suit for men and a modest dress or suit for women that covers the arms, legs, and shoulders is considered professional. Avoid wearing sandals with exposed toes when going to business meetings.
Language
The most often used language is Arabic. English is also commonly used, followed by French and other languages. If you plan to reside or work in the UAE for an extended period, it would be beneficial to learn Arabic for ease of communication.
Business Cards
It’s advisable to print one side of your business cards in Arabic. When you attend meetings, exchange business cards immediately following the introduction. Always use your right hand to give or receive something. Keep the cards on the table after receiving them rather than tucking them away.
Face-to-Face Business Meetings
Personal connections are essential when conducting business in the UAE. Emiratis prefer meeting in person to emails and phone calls. You should make appointments two weeks in advance and confirm a few days before the meeting.
In the private sector, the work week runs from Sunday through Thursday from 9:00 in the morning to 5:00 pm. The public sector’s week runs from Sunday through Thursday from 7:30 in the morning to 2:30 pm. Some offices extend to 4 pm.
Avoid scheduling meetings for Thursday evenings or Friday because these are days of prayer. Friday and Saturday are days of rest, but some people opt to work on Saturday.
Dos and Don’ts in Dubai for Tourists
Certain behaviors go against Dubai etiquette. Let’s look at some things you can do freely and those that are frowned upon in Dubai.
Dos for Tourists in Dubai
Things you can do in Dubai include;
Respect Local Traditions
Most people enjoy learning about local customs and cultures because it helps them feel like a community. Islam influences the traditions of Dubai, and if one makes a conscious effort to avoid doing anything viewed as disrespectful, the city will reward them with an unforgettable experience without any problems.
Do Stay Calm and Collected
You will be fined if caught engaging in aggressive discussions or fights. This also applies to verbal abuse. Additionally, shouting, arguing, and ranting is regarded as offensive in Dubai. The only distinction is that you might be sentenced to jail time or even face deportation if you do it here.
Don’ts for Tourists in Dubai
The following are things you should avoid if you intend to enjoy your stay in Dubai.
Do not Engage in PDA
PDA is one of the most important things to avoid doing in Dubai. Holding hands, kissing, and hugging in public are frowned upon in Dubai and could result in jail time if caught. Also, refrain from dancing and playing loud music in public. The locals don’t like it.
Do Not Swear in Public
When visiting Dubai, you must be extra cautious with your language, especially when you are in public or conversing with a local. Avoid using obscene language and profanity. Also, avoid saying anything that could be disrespectful of Islam or Muslims.
Do Not Make Hand Gestures When Driving
Driving a sports car throughout Dubai will increase your thrill while you’re there. In Dubai, there are many locations where you can rent one for the day, but you must exercise extreme caution. While it might be okay to make rude hand signals to express displeasure where you come from, it’s unacceptable in Dubai. You must maintain composure and refrain from swearing or making offensive gestures that could upset the other driver.
Do Not Disrespect The Royal Family in Public
When you travel to a new place, you’ll form some opinions. If you’re visiting Dubai for the first time, you could have some thoughts about the local customs, the royal family, the legal system, the political climate, the people, etc. Yes, it is normal, but you shouldn’t discuss them publicly. The Royal family, politics, culture, laws, and religion cannot be publicly mocked, criticized, or insulted.
Do Not Drink in Public
Both drinking and being inebriated in public are against the law, and doing either will result in fines, jail time or both.
Final Thoughts
Hospitality is the hallmark of Dubai’s culture and a great social etiquette tip. In the UAE, some things that the western world could consider normal are deemed offensive. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the etiquette to avoid appearing weird.
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