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DUBAI has been voted the best tourist destination in the world. The city is a popular winter destination because of its warm climate. The city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is very open to foreigners and has a high level of tolerance. However, tourists should be aware of local etiquette to ensure they enjoy their vacation without offending the locals.
There are not many hard and fast rules in Dubai, but travelers should know what not to do:
Show affection in public
Taking a photo with the city skyline in the background while kissing your partner may be a nice memory, but it is best to avoid it in the UAE. Hugging or kissing at the airport is fine, but showing affection in public is not frowned upon by locals, according to Travel and Leisure Asia, Tuesday, November 19, 2024.
Swearing in public
It is best to avoid using foul language in public, including gestures. It is important to note that Dubai is a quiet city and public fights and tantrums are rare.
Drinking alcohol in public
Travelers often buy alcohol in duty free shops because it is so easy, but resist the urge to open a can of beer and chug it while sitting on one of Dubai’s beaches or other public places. Drinking alcohol in public is strictly prohibited unless it is done in a licensed area.
Lack of tolerance
The UAE is home to people from over 200 countries, so put your differences aside before you come to the UAE. Tolerance for different religions, customs, dress and languages is highly valued here. Personal political and religious ideologies should not be discussed in public.
Disrespecting those who are fasting
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. However, restaurants in Dubai remain open and serve food and drinks freely. If in doubt about what to eat, it is always a good idea to politely ask if it is permissible to eat or drink in public.
Disrespect the Rulers of Dubai
In the UAE, the rulers must be respected at all costs, and it is forbidden to insult them by word or deed. Doing so can get travelers into serious trouble and even result in expulsion from the country.
Not dressing modestly
Dubai is known for its luxurious and glamorous lifestyle. Here, travelers will see people wearing whatever they want, but there are some unwritten rules that need to be followed. Emiratis tend to wear traditional clothing that covers the entire body. Travelers do not have to cover their entire body but should dress according to the place they are in, for example, beachwear is okay on the beach, but not elsewhere. Covering your shoulders, knees, and stomach is acceptable when entering government offices. Wearing a headscarf may help if you need to cover up, for example, when visiting a mosque.
Only some mosques allow non-Muslim women to enter
Most mosques have separate prayer areas for women. For travelers who wish to enter a mosque, it is advisable to ask if non-Muslim women are allowed to enter.
Shaking hands
There are strict rules of conduct regarding interactions between men and women. When interacting with locals, it is best to shake hands only when they extend their hand. To be on the safe side, it is best to greet with words and gestures that do not involve physical contact.
Drug use can be a serious problem
Drugs in any form are prohibited in the UAE, including Dubai. The UAE has a Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act which makes it a criminal offence to manufacture, import, export, transport, buy, sell, possess and store narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, except as part of a medical or scientific activity that is supervised and regulated in accordance with the applicable law.
Failure to comply may result in serious consequences. Travelers should carry prescriptions for medications and verify that they are controlled. [sources/photo special]
