Do's and Don'ts in Dubai

Dubai is one of the most modern and developed cities in the world. One look at the pictures of Dubai would show you a city with several modern buildings, five star hotels and all other luxuries that you would find in a modern city. If you are planning a trip to Dubai, you would definitely have a great time as the place has beautiful buildings and monuments for sightseeing, restaurants that serve delicious food, unique theme parks, pubs and discos, exciting Dubai Creek dhow cruise, large malls and several other entertainment options. Apart from this, the people of Dubai are also extremely warm and welcoming.

While the city looks extremely modern, one thing you must remember is that the city as well as the people here are deep-rooted in religion, culture and traditions. It is a part of UAE, an Islamic country and follows the Islamic laws of living. While Dubai or UAE does not force expats or tourists to follow the Islamic way of living, there are some do's and don'ts that everyone must follow when in Dubai. Let us take a look at some of them.

Dress Code: Arabs in Dubai, both men and women, wear traditional clothes in public. While expats and tourists do not have to wear such clothes, as a rule, there are some things that they need to be careful about. Women should wear clothes that cover their arms, legs (till the knees) and cleavage. It is best to avoid shorts and mini-skirts. Also, men should refrain from walking shirtless in public, even when the temperature sores really high. Beach wear (bikini) is allowed on the beaches, water parks and pool sides. However, the bikini also should not be too revealing. Pubs and discotheques do not have any restrictions when it comes to dress code. In short, you can wear whatever you want. But make sure that you are covered properly with a shawl or jacket while travelling to the place.

Behaviour in Public: Being an Islamic state, there are several rules when it comes to behaviour in Public in Dubai and UAE. Couples should refrain from public display of affection when in the city or anywhere else in the country. While holding hands are considered ok, avoid hugging, kissing or any such activity in public areas, even if you are married. Remember that people around you can get offended and if they complain, you may get imprisoned too.

Apart from avoiding PDA, one must avoid losing one's temper in public. Ensure you do not lose your cool in public and shout at somebody, use cuss words or even derogatory hand gestures. All these are considered to be criminal offices and can get you inside jail. If such circumstances arise where you get angry at someone or about something, remember to keep your cool and walk away as soon as possible. Other than this, playing loud music and dancing in public are not considered decent and should be avoided completely.

Relationships: Dubai is not tolerant when it comes to relationships without marriage or outside marriage. Such relationships are considered to be a criminal offence. Apart from this, having a baby outside wedlock is also illegal. If you are travelling with your boyfriend or girlfriend or fiancé, it would be best to book separate hotel rooms for your stay. Even if you stay in one room, it is best to address each other as husband and wife, especially in front of the hotel staff.

Drinking: Drinking alcohol is permitted in Dubai but only in restaurants and pubs. You can buy alcohol from department stores and such places only if you have the required licence. Another thing you need to remember is that you cannot drink in public places. Even when you drink in pubs and restaurants, make sure you are within your limit. Never drink and drive in Dubai, even if it is just a drink or too. Even a small amount of alcohol in your blood system can get you into jail if you were driving after drinking. Apart from this, you also should not loiter around in public after you are drunk. Ensure that you get inside a cab and get to your hotel or home as soon as possible.

Respect Religion and People: You may have different views on Islam and their traditions but it is best to keep it to yourself when you are in Dubai or UAE. The Emiratis are warm and welcoming till you respect their religion and way of life. You must refrain from abusing their religion or culture, verbally or through your actions. You must remember that you are in their country and hence must follow their rules as long as you are there.

The rules become even stricter during one month of Ramadan celebrations. Muslims do not eat or drink anything during the day and do so only after dusk. Moreover, non-Muslims also cannot drink or eat in public during this month. Apart from this, smoking’s, playing loud music, dancing in public areas, etc. is also prohibited during this month. If you are in Dubai during this time of the year, it is imperative to follow these rules. However, you do not have to fast like the Muslims. If you are a resident in Dubai, you can cook food and eat at your home. In case you are a tourist, most hotels have a special area where non-Muslims are served food and drinks. Still, alcohol is restricted even in these areas.

Apart from the rules mentioned above, here are few more do's and don'ts that you should keep in mind:

Do not take pictures of government or official buildings or Dubai citizens, especially women. If you want to, do so by taking permission first.
Do not show any kind of disrespect (by words or actions) to the ruling or royal family of Dubai or UAE.
Refrain from swimming or sunbathing topless in the beaches of Dubai.
Do not litter anywhere on the roads or public places.

The do's and don'ts may seem too restrictive. However, Dubai is a beautiful place that offers a variety of things. Hence, it is best to follow them as it shows respect to the place and people you are visiting. Moreover