Cosmopolitan, liberal and pro-business, Dubai is an accessible and welcoming gateway to Arabic life and culture. Yet for all its Western trappings, Dubai has distinct social, cultural and business practices that are valuable—if not imperative—to know. While by no means comprehensive, the following key pointers will help guide and enhance your visit to Dubai:
- Business here starts with establishing trust and relationships. Where do you go from there? A great source is “Business Culture & Etiquette” on the “I Live Here” page of Definitely Dubai (www.definitelydubai.com), the DTCM’s official tourism portal.
- Arabic is the official language but English is widely spoken, with most signs written in both languages. Any attempt to use basic Arabic phrases—especially greetings and farewells—is warmly appreciated. The most common formal greeting, appropriate for any occasion, is the traditional Bedouin “as’salamu a’alaykum” (peace be upon you), to which the correct response is “wa’alaykum as’salam” (and upon you be peace). More informally, “marhaba” (welcome or hello) is answered with “marhaba” again or “marhabtayn” (two hellos).
- Alcohol is generally only served to guests in hotel restaurants and bars. Exceptions are some clubs (e.g. golf clubs) and associations. Restaurants not associated with hotels are not permitted to serve alcohol. Public drunkenness and driving under the influence are serious offenses.
- Dubai has zero tolerance for narcotics—period. Even minute traces of illegal drugs (including in the urine or bloodstream) can land you in jail. If carrying prescription drugs, be sure to bring a letter from your doctor. However, even some drugs normally taken under a doctor’s supervision in the U.S. or sold over the counter here are illegal in the UAE—so check with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General beforehand.
- Reflecting Islamic traditions, codes of behavior and dress are more conservative than in the U.S. While no restrictions are imposed on expatriates and tourists per se, modest dress covering the arms and legs is advisable for public places, especially at historical and religious sites. Swimwear is tolerated at hotel pools and on the beach. Avoid public displays of affection.
- Dress smart for business, but given the hot climate, a shirt and tie for men is sufficient for all but high-level meetings. Women usually choose a suit or a skirt and blouse, and nothing too revealing.
- While photography is acceptable, do not photograph government buildings, military installations, ports or airports, and always ask permission before photographing people—especially women.
