Dubai Customs and Culture

There were times when the westerners were somnolent of visiting Dubai because of its strict Muslim laws and customs. But with the rising tourism, Dubai has evolved as a comfortable destination. It has become more tolerant and liberal as compared to past. However, the Arabs are likely to take offence at social blunders only if they are out of ignorance. The policy of warm welcome of the guests is humbly followed if the visitor acquaints himself with local ways of doing things. Being a foreigner, one should not forget certain unwritten basic etiquettes to be followed in Dubai to perceive respect all over.

Dress Code:

In Dubai, dress code is rather liberal as contrasted with other cities of Middle East. Though in some religiously dominated areas both men and women are expected to cover most part of the body from head to foot, the areas accommodating expats may not follow the strict dress code. The people can wear western outfits but over-revealing clothes are a major turn-off.

Addressing Terms:

It is important to greet local people in a correct way. The names of Arabs can be confusing to the new people though, but it is highly necessary to follow the designated principles of addressing in emirates. In general, one can address “Sayeed” to a man and “Sayeeda” to women. The rulers are typically addressed as “Your Highness” and the senior members of ruling families are addressed as “Sheikh”.

Greetings:

“Salam alaykum” is the most common greeting in the Middle East and “Wa alaykum as-salam” is the correct reply to it. Some of the common used greetings are:

Greeting Meaning Reply

Ahlan wa sahlan Hello Ahlan bik
Sabah al-khayr Good morning/afternoon Sabah an-nur
Masa al-khayr Good evening Masa an-nur

Body Language:

One should accept whatever is offered for drinking or eating but austerely keeping in view that left hand should never be used for eating or drinking as it is considered to be unclean. Always use the right hand. In addition to it, one must not show his sole of the feet or shoes in front of anyone. The feet should be kept flat on the ground and avoid crossing the legs.

Other Do’s and Don’ts:

• One must not offer a drink to an Arab unless sure enough of the fact that he drinks.
• One must not walk on prayer mat or stare at the person offering prayers.
• One should not try to enter mosques without prior permissions.
• Beckoning someone with a finger is highly impolite and considered to summon a dog.
• During Ramadan, eating, drinking or smoking anywhere should be avoided. Creating noises is also not acceptable.