Dubai, United Arab Emirates-travel-tips

Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Dubai, UAE

Respect Local Customs and Traditions

  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting mosques or government buildings.
  • Remove your shoes: When entering a mosque or someone’s home, remove your shoes as a sign of respect.

Greetings and Interactions

  • Use your right hand: When greeting locals or exchanging items, use your right hand as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Be respectful of personal space: Physical touch is generally avoided in public, especially between men and women.
  • Avoid public displays of affection: Refrain from kissing, hugging, or holding hands in public.

Food and Drink Etiquette

  • Use your right hand when eating: When dining with locals, use your right hand to eat as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Try local cuisine: Be adventurous and try traditional Emirati dishes like machboos (rice dish) and shawarma (kebab).
  • Avoid eating in public during Ramadan: If you’re visiting during the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating in public until sunset.

Tipping and Gift-Giving

  • Tipping is not mandatory: However, a 10-15% tip is appreciated for good service.
  • Gift-giving: When giving gifts, avoid anything too expensive or lavish. A small, thoughtful gift like dates or chocolates is suitable.

Mosque Etiquette

  • Dress modestly: Wear loose, covering clothing and remove your shoes before entering a mosque.
  • Remove your sunglasses: Show respect by removing your sunglasses when interacting with locals or visiting mosques.
  • Avoid taking pictures inside mosques: Refrain from taking photos inside mosques unless explicitly allowed.

General Safety and Precautions

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, especially during hot summer months.
  • Be mindful of traffic: Pedestrians, drivers, and cyclists often share the same roads; be cautious when navigating Dubai’s streets.
  • Respect local laws: Familiarize yourself with UAE laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues.

Additional Tips

  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases: Show respect by learning simple phrases like “hello” (مرحبا - marhaba), “thank you” (شكرا - shukraan), and “goodbye” (مع السلامة - ma’a al-salaama).
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular attractions can get crowded, so plan accordingly and be patient.
  • Respect the local environment: Keep Dubai’s public spaces clean by disposing of trash properly and avoiding littering.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a respectful and enjoyable trip in Dubai!