UAE Travel Etiquette: What Every Visitor Should Know

Walking into Dubai for the first time can feel like stepping into a futuristic movie, but the real magic happens when you blend in with local customs. Ignoring a simple gesture or dress rule can land you a fine, not a souvenir. Below is the practical low‑down you need to travel confidently.

Greetings, Dress, and Public Behavior

When you meet someone, a warm handshake works for both men and women—just avoid an overly firm grip. Adding a friendly "As‑Salaam Alaikum" (peace be upon you) earns instant goodwill. Remember, the left hand is considered unclean, so keep it off your face and avoid handing items with it.

Dress codes are relaxed in malls and hotels but tighten up in mosques, government buildings, and some restaurants. For men, short‑sleeve shirts and knee‑length trousers are fine; women should cover shoulders and knees. A light scarf in your bag can save you from a last‑minute wardrobe change.

Public displays of affection (PDA) are a gray area. A quick hand squeeze is okay, but kissing or hugging on the street can attract a warning, especially during Ramadan. If you’re unsure, keep it subtle.

Dining, Social Settings, and Public Spaces

Food etiquette is simple: eat with your right hand, even if you’re using a fork. The left hand is reserved for personal hygiene. When offered dates or Arabic coffee, accept—it’s a sign of hospitality. If you’re not a fan, a polite "shukran" (thank you) works.

Ramadan changes the whole dining scene. No eating, drinking, or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset. Most restaurants hide their menu behind curtains; look for green‑lit signs that indicate they serve non‑muslim guests after sundown.

Restroom habits differ too. You'll find a bidet spray (shattaf) next to the toilet paper. Use the water first, then dry with a small towel or the paper. It feels odd at first, but locals appreciate the effort.

Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. Vaping follows the same rule, and sharing a shisha pipe is common in lounge bars—just ask before you join. Fines for smoking in non‑smoking zones start at 500 AED.

When you’re on a taxi, a simple "Salam Alaikum" when the driver opens the door is polite. Tipping 10 % of the fare is appreciated but not required. For rideshare apps, avoid rating a driver less than five unless there’s a real issue; drivers rely heavily on those scores.

Gestures matter. A thumbs‑up is generally fine, but the middle finger is a criminal offense and can lead to jail time. If you’re unsure about a hand sign, keep your hands neutral.

Finally, a quick checklist before you head out: dress modestly, use the right hand for food, keep PDA low, respect Ramadan rules, and stick to smoking zones. Follow these, and you’ll blend in like a local while still enjoying all the luxury Dubai offers.