The Culture and Customs of the UAE: A Guide for Those Who Wish to Know More
Who Are the People of the UAE?
The UAE is a diverse mix of people from all around the world. People from India, Pakistan, Iran, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka, to name a few, form the majority of the population of the UAE. There are typical Arab people as well as experts from other parts of the world. The government is keen to preserve the culture and heritage of the UAE. That is why they have created laws that govern how people should dress and speak according to their cultural background.
Common Customs in the UAE
There are a few customs that are observed in the UAE. Here are some of them:
- When visiting a home in the UAE, it is customary to bring a gift for the host. Flowers, sweets, or a box of dates are some of the popular choices.
- If you are invited to a home in the UAE, it is customary to bring flowers or a box of dates as a gift for the host.
- When visiting a friend or relative in a hospital, you should bring flowers or chocolates.
- If you are invited to someone’s home during Ramadan, it is customary to break the fast with the family.
- When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to shake hands.
- When visiting a friend or relative in a hospital, you should not give flowers.
- If you are invited to someone’s home on the occasion of breaking the fast during Ramadan, you should accept.
Language and Communication Protocol in UAE
The language spoken in the UAE is Arabic. English is widely used in the UAE, especially in schools and offices. However, it is polite to learn a few basic words in Arabic before visiting the country.
Food and Dining Etiquette in UAE
Meals are important to the people of the UAE. They are mostly served at home and are a time to get together with family, friends, and colleagues.
- If you are invited to someone’s home to break the fast during Ramadan, it is customary to bring sweets or dates as a gift.
- You do not eat with your left hand in the UAE. It is considered rude to eat with your left hand.
- It is customary to eat with your right hand.
- It is also considered rude to point with your finger when conversing with someone.
Travelling Manner and Customs
it is considered rude to have your shoes on when you are visiting someone in the UAE.
- It is considered polite to remove your shoes before entering a mosque.
- It is recommended that women wear long sleeves and long skirts while visiting mosques in the UAE.
- When traveling by car, women should sit in the back seat.
- It is advisable to dress modestly and appropriately when visiting religious places in the UAE.
- Men should not wear shorts when traveling to the UAE.
Conclusion
The UAE is a conservative country, and it is important to respect the culture of the country. You should avoid taboo topics, dress conservatively, and observe dining etiquette while visiting the country. If you follow these customs while in the UAE, you will be able to blend in well with the locals.
