Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in UAE?

Answer this Question

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

We asked people in UAE if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting the UAE. It is important to dress modestly, especially for women, and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Additionally, it is important to be aware of local laws and customs, such as not drinking alcohol in public or consuming pork products. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about the UAE or its people," wrote a member who made the move to UAE.

Allianz CareAllianz Care
Get Quote

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
Get Quote

"Do not park our car outside the yellow lines I got a parking ticket at 7:30 in the morning 200 aed," explained one expat living in Dubai, UAE.

Other Questions:

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in UAE?

If you live in the UAE, newcomers to the UAE would love to hear your answer to this question.

If your answer relates to a specific city or town in the UAE, please include the name of the city/town below:


About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to UAE Network Contribute
Help others in UAE by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in UAE.

William Russell
William Russell

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal