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Travel & Tourism

Culture in Dubai

Dubai
Credit: Pixabay
Deep-rooted Islamic traditions are the UAE's lifestyle, but the Culture in Dubai is diverse and rich. But it is very important for the foreign nationals to respect the tradition of the Emiratis when in UAE. Well-known as the entertainment hub of the Middle East, Dubai is a magnet for the party lovers who enjoy splurging at the expensive clubs and bars of the city. 

When Arabs meet up, they take their own time to mingle and talk mostly about general things. Men and Women do not greet each other outside their family. Men do shake hands and might even kiss each other on the cheek with their real good friends. On the other hand, a woman tends to hug and kiss only their close friends.
Perhaps there are certain things that are to be kept in mind if you are invited by an Arab family for lunch or dinner. It is advised to dress gracefully, to be punctual as far as possible, and greet the elders first in a way to respect them, remove your shoes before entering the house and bring some sweets or a small gift. Flowers are generally given to the woman by the guest. Giving alcohol has to be avoided as a gift unless it is accepted positively.  If you are served the Arabian coffee and dates, be obliged to taste it and if invited for a meal then it is generally understood that it is time to socialize and have a small talk before the meal is served. Residents generally sit crossed legged or else kneel down on one knee when having their meal on the floor and eat with their right hand. You can try a bit of each before delicacy served.
Traditional Arab dress
Credit: Pixabay

 Arab people normally dress up in traditional clothes that make them the most comfortable. Men generally prefer the Kandura or dishdasha, a long white shirt, along with the ghutra, white headdress, and the agal, a rope for the ghutra. Women wear the abaya, long black cloak, over their clothes and a hijab or Sheyla, a scarf wrapped around face and head.  Men can wear trousers and women to wear a dress long enough to cover their knees. Visitors can wear clothes according to their wish when inside the hotel or at a bar or club. Swimwear is accepted at the pool or beach. Alcohol consumption is allowed only inside the nightclubs, bars and some of the hotels. Locals can enjoy a drink inside their house as long as they possess an alcohol license given by the government. Residents or tourists are not allowed to consume alcohol on the streets or in public places.

When in Dubai visitors are requested not to exhibit Western culture habits on the streets.  Before taking the snaps of the locals, especially women, tourists are requested to seek permission politely.

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