Middle East · PreGoYa
A modern, cosmopolitan country grounded in Islamic values. Knowing local norms around dress, behavior, and law keeps your trip smooth.
What to know
Cities are cosmopolitan, but modest dress and reserved public behavior are expected, especially away from beaches and hotels.
Why
Public life is guided by Islamic values and shared decorum.
Do
Avoid
What to know
During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight is avoided out of respect for those fasting.
Why
Fasting is a central religious observance.
Do
Avoid
What to know
Hospitality is a serious value. Guests are often offered Arabic coffee (gahwa) with dates, and refusing outright can seem ungracious.
Why
Generosity to guests is a defining Gulf custom.
Do
Avoid
What to know
Tipping is common in restaurants and for services, and many bills already include a service charge.
Why
Tourism and hospitality are major industries with service-based wages.
Do
Avoid
What to know
Criticism of Islam, the government, or ruling families is offensive and, in some cases, legally risky. Public drunkenness and certain medications are also treated seriously.
Why
The legal system reflects religious and state values.
Do
Avoid
The things travelers most often get wrong — rated by how much they matter.
Why? Alcohol is legal only in licensed venues; public consumption is an offense.
Why? It can be considered indecent and, in some cases, unlawful.
Why? Privacy is taken seriously, particularly for women and government sites.
Why? Alcohol is only legal in licensed hotels, restaurants, and clubs, and public intoxication is an offence.
The UAE blends global modernity with deeply held Islamic values. A little awareness — modest dress, discretion, and respect for religion and law — lets you enjoy the country fully and comfortably.
Written by PreGoYa · Last updated · pregoya@foxmail.com
Common questions
Yes, commonly. Leave 10–15% at restaurants if no service charge is included, a few dirhams for porters and valets, and round up taxi fares. Many bills already add a service charge, so check first.
Modest clothing in public — cover shoulders and knees, especially in malls, souks, and government buildings. Swimwear is fine at pools and beaches. Women should cover their hair with a scarf to enter mosques.
Eating or drinking in public during Ramadan daylight hours, public displays of affection, drinking alcohol outside licensed venues, and photographing people — particularly women — without permission.
Yes, at designated mosques such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and the Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai. Dress fully modestly, women cover their hair, remove your shoes, and avoid visiting during the five daily prayers.
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