Cultural Guide & Etiquette

Respect local customs and enjoy a harmonious Dubai experience

Dress Code

Acceptable Dress

✓Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees in public areas
✓Swimwear at beaches, pools, and water parks only
✓Business casual for malls and restaurants
✓Light, breathable fabrics for comfort in heat
✓Smart casual for fine dining establishments

What to Avoid

✗Revealing or transparent clothing in public
✗Beachwear outside beach/pool areas
✗Offensive slogans or images on clothing
✗Very short shorts or mini skirts in public areas
✗Sleeveless tops in government buildings or religious sites

Special Note: During Ramadan, dress even more conservatively out of respect for the holy month.

Social Behavior & Interactions

Public Displays of Affection

Holding hands is generally acceptable for couples, but kissing and hugging in public should be avoided.

Be respectful and conservative

Greetings

Handshakes are common for same-gender greetings. Wait for opposite gender to extend hand first. "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you) is a respectful greeting.

Follow the local's lead

Alcohol & Pork

Legal drinking age is 21. Alcohol only in licensed venues (hotels, bars, clubs). Never drink in public - fines up to AED 100,000. Zero tolerance for drink driving (0.00% BAC). Pork products available in designated sections of supermarkets.

Licensed venues only

21+ age limit

Photography

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women. Avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, and airports.

Ask first, respect privacy

During Ramadan

Ramadan is the Islamic holy month of fasting. Be especially respectful during this time:

Do's

Eat/drink in designated screened areas only
Dress more conservatively than usual
Lower music volume in public
Show extra patience and respect

Don'ts

Eat, drink, or smoke in public before sunset
Chew gum in public during fasting hours
Play loud music or dance in public
Show irritation at reduced service hours

Note: Many restaurants operate normally but with screened dining areas. Hotels and airports have normal dining. Working hours may be reduced.

Gestures & Body Language

Avoid showing the sole of your foot

Considered disrespectful. Keep feet on the ground when sitting.

Don't use left hand for eating or greeting

Left hand is considered unclean. Use right hand for important interactions.

Avoid pointing with finger

Use open hand to gesture. Pointing is considered rude.

Maintain personal space

Respect personal boundaries in queues and conversations.

Essential Tips for Visitors

1
Friday is the holy day: Many businesses and government offices are closed or have reduced hours on Friday mornings.
2
Tipping culture: 10-15% is customary in restaurants. Tip hotel staff, taxi drivers (round up), and service staff.
3
Respect prayer times: Be aware that shops may close briefly (15-30 min) for prayer, especially during Friday prayers.
4
Bargaining: Expected in souks and traditional markets, but not in malls or fixed-price stores.
5
Zero tolerance for drugs: Extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties. Even trace amounts can lead to prosecution.
6
Social media caution: Avoid posting content that could be considered offensive, defamatory, or critical of the government. VoIP apps like WhatsApp calls work normally.
7
LGBTQ+ awareness: Same-sex relationships are not legally recognized. Discretion is advised for LGBTQ+ travelers.
8
Unmarried couples: Cohabitation laws have relaxed, but public displays of affection should still be minimal. Hotels generally accept unmarried couples.

Respect, Courtesy, and Hospitality

Dubai warmly welcomes visitors from all backgrounds. By respecting local customs and traditions, you'll ensure a pleasant and memorable experience for everyone.