Summary: Important advice for expats and travelers in Dubai about how to dress appropriately, the Holy Month of Ramadan and other customs.

There is a lot of confusing and misleading information when it comes to what is and what is not culturally acceptable in Dubai. Dubai is a vibrant cosmopolitan city with over 100 nationalities living together in harmony. Millions of tourists flock to Dubai every year and the city is truly a cultural crossroads. The local population is quite small (estimated around 15%), but Emiratis in general are warm, welcoming, and very tolerant of foreign visitors and residents. In return, it is greatly appreciated if those who travel to Dubai take a little time to learn about the local customs and culture.

The UAE is a Muslim country. The culture is based on a deeply rooted belief in Islam and centers on the family. Mosques are dotted throughout the landscape of Dubai and five times a day the melodious prayer call or "adhan" will be heard. The official weekend is Friday, although government offices and certain multinational companies are also closed on Saturday. Arabic is the official language; however English is widely spoken by almost everyone and all the street signs are in both English and Arabic. There is no specific dress code in Dubai, and you will see both ends of the spectrum from women who cover themselves from head to toe to those who choose to barely cover themselves at all. At the beach, women are welcome to wear bikinis and men can don swimming shorts. Away from the beach, it is more culturally acceptable for men to avoid wearing shorts or going shirtless and for women to avoid mini-skirts, midriff baring tops, and shorts. T-shirts or blouses and mid-length skirts or Capri pants for women are considered quite appropriate. Muslim women from the Gulf States typically dress in a long black robe known as the "abaya".

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About the Author Ahmed Juma is a local UAE businessman and the owner of Emirates-Ads, a UAE classifieds site with extensive listings for UAE and Dubai jobs, properties, vehicles, and items for sale in the United Arab Emirates.

First Published: Apr 26, 2008