What clothes to wear in the UAE? Can I drink alcoholic beverages in the UAE? How to behave in love in public places? How to behave with Arabs?
If you are going to visit the United Arab Emirates, remember that you are going to a Muslim country, which means that the norms of behavior in it are significantly different from Ukrainian ones.
We have prepared for you answers to the most popular questions about what you can and cannot do in the UAE.
What clothes to wear?
Of course, it is not necessary to wear a burqa, but it is desirable that women’s clothing should not be defiant, covering the shoulders and legs. Try to avoid mini-skirts, plunging necklines and see-through dresses on your naked body. Topless sunbathing is also not worth it. There are no strict clothing rules for men, but you should not take risks and walk around the United Arab Emirates with a naked torso.
Can I drink alcoholic beverages in the UAE?
Muslims are strictly prohibited from drinking alcohol. This rule does not apply to visiting tourists, but for drinking alcohol on the street, a tourist faces a fine or imprisonment. In bars, restaurants and hotel rooms – you can.
Can unmarried people stay in the same room?
Almost all hotels in the United Arab Emirates are loyal to civil marriage, but in no case should you abuse this and behave with restraint and modesty in public.
How to behave in love in public places?
Remember that in public places any manifestation of any feelings other than friendly is strictly prohibited. Unfortunately, there are many examples of couples going to jail for kissing alone.
Do I need to always carry my passport with me?
No no need. It is enough to have photocopies of your passport and visa. It is better to leave the originals in a safe in the hotel room, because the loss of a passport threatens with very big troubles, up to and including arrest for the period necessary to obtain a new passport or a certificate from the consulate.
How to behave with Arabs?
All the locals are very welcoming and hospitable. And this is sincere – after all, the Emirates, unlike Egypt and Turkey, do not live at the expense of tourists at all. But still, it’s better not to try to get close to them, do not take pictures of the residents themselves, their houses, office buildings. Before taking a photo, especially of an Arab woman, it is better to ask permission.
At the same time, be careful and always follow the rules of conduct, because 85% of the UAE population is from other countries who come here to work. There are many Pakistanis and Indians among them, who are very interested in additional earnings. Such earnings may turn out to be a complaint against you to the relevant authorities, which welcome and encourage denunciations.
We also want to draw your attention to the fact that the emirate of Sharjah is the strictest emirate. There is a 100% prohibition here, and for revealing clothes and immodest behavior, it is much more likely to go to jail.
If you are going on vacation to the United Arab Emirates, respect the traditions and laws of this wonderful country and you are guaranteed a good vacation.