Dubai Culture and Customs

There are many confusing and misleading information or facts comes when we search what is acceptable or what is not acceptable in Dubai. Even though Dubai is one of the most cosmopolitan city all over the world and now it becomes top most tourist spots also. Dubai has only 15% local population and others are foreign visitors and residents. Hence, we discuss about the actual local custom and culture in Dubai.

UAE is an Islamic country and belief in Islam. There are lots of Mosques located in Dubai and you would be hear melodious “adhan” five times in a day. Friday is an official weekend day,but mostly Government companies and MNC are closed on Saturday .Arabic is the first language of this region and also English is second conversation language there. As we know there are no any specific dress  code for women and men also. Women can wear burkha and other clothes. In also beach areas women can wear bikinis and men can shorts. As well as in a public place or away from beach area you must avoid to wear bikinis and other short clothes because it considers appropriate in Islamic country. Mostly Muslim women wear a long black robe which known as “abaya”. In Islam, ladies will be cover their head and also wear loose cloth to cover their arms and legs and men will be wear a loose white robe called “dishdasha” along with “gutra”.

Arabs are mostly known as “Best Hospitable people” all over the world. But you must know some cultural etiquette before interacting with Arabs. Always take permission of the women first when you are going to take their photographs. Mostly women and men in Islamic country avoid handshake with the opposite gender. So, it is better to wait if a local person greets you first with a handshake. Local men basically meet other local men by touching their noses and kissing their cheeks.

If any local family will invite you to enjoy coffee or other traditional food then keep in mind some rules. First, whenever you will enter their home, you must take off your shoes. When you sit ,don’t point your feet in anyone’s direction because in Islamic countries its consider as rude. Always take food and drink with the right hand.

If you are Muslim or non Muslim you will abstain from eat, drink and smoke in daytime during the Holy month of Ramadan. Because Muslim fast from sunrise to sunset in this holy month. If you eat or smoke by mistake, then someone local people will defiantly remind you the time and ask to stop because its Ramadan in Dubai. Even though, Most of restaurants and hotels are close in daytime. You can only enjoy your food in hotel rooms and your home. Pubs and nightclubs are open after sunset.

Dubai is also very famous for Shopping. Dubai mall is the world’s largest mall. Mostly tourist and visitors come for visit cultural sites. The Dubai Museum, built in an old fort and you can see old weapons, traditional costumes as well as the pearl diving company.

So, There are some cultural facts and rules of Dubai. Spent your Vacation in Dubai and enjoy their culture.