Local Customs & Etiquette in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

1. Modest Dress Code

Respect local customs by dressing modestly, covering shoulders and knees in public places.

Cultural Sensitivity: Shows respect for the local culture and traditions
Practicality: Enables visitors to comfortably explore the city without causing offense
Compliance: Avoids potential fines or legal issues for inappropriate attire

Use a firm handshake and maintain eye contact during greetings. Avoid physical contact with the opposite sex.

Respect: Shows respect for personal space and cultural norms
Understanding: Helps to build rapport and trust with locals
Avoidance of Misunderstandings: Prevents misinterpretation of actions as inappropriate or disrespectful

Respect Ramadan by not eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.

Sensitivity: Shows empathy and understanding for the religious beliefs of locals
Respect: Avoids offending locals during their holy month
Compliance: Enables visitors to adapt to local customs during Ramadan

Drinking alcohol is only allowed in licensed venues and it's prohibited during Ramadan.

Legal Compliance: Avoids potential legal issues related to alcohol consumption
Respect: Shows respect for local laws and customs regarding alcohol
Enjoyment: Allows visitors to enjoy alcohol in designated areas without breaking the law

Service charge is often included in the bill, but tipping is appreciated for exceptional service.

Appreciation: Shows appreciation for good service
Reciprocity: Reflects the customary practice of tipping in many countries
Clarity: Helps to ensure that service staff receive appropriate compensation

Respect local holidays by planning travel around these times.

Cultural Sensitivity: Shows respect for the cultural values and traditions of locals
Planning: Allows visitors to make travel arrangements around local holidays
Experience: Enables visitors to experience local celebrations and traditions

Punctuality is expected, dress conservatively, and use formal titles when addressing people.

Respect: Shows respect for business meetings and local customs
Productivity: Enables efficient use of time in business meetings
Professionalism: Maintains a professional and respectful demeanor during business interactions

Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Avoid photographing government buildings and military sites.

Respect: Shows respect for privacy and cultural norms
Avoidance of Offense: Prevents offense or violation of local laws regarding photography
Memorable Experience: Enables visitors to capture meaningful and respectful photos during their trip

Gifts are not expected, but if given, should be modest and avoid religious items.

Respect: Shows respect for local customs and beliefs
Cultural Sensitivity: Avoids offense or inappropriate gift choices
Appreciation: Shows appreciation for hospitality or friendship, if a gift is given

Smoking is prohibited in many public places and buildings, including malls, restaurants, and parks.

Legal Compliance: Avoids potential legal issues related to smoking in prohibited areas
Respect: Shows respect for local laws and regulations regarding smoking
Health: Promotes a healthier environment by adhering to smoking restrictions

Drive on the right side of the road, and always wear a seatbelt. Speed limits are strictly enforced.

Safety: Ensures safety for drivers and pedestrians
Legal Compliance: Avoids potential legal issues related to traffic violations
Respect: Shows respect for local road rules and regulations

Avoid public displays of affection, and be mindful of conservative behavior in public places.

Respect: Shows respect for local customs and cultural norms
Avoidance of Offense: Prevents offense or violation of local social norms
Cultural Sensitivity: Helps visitors to blend in and feel comfortable during their stay

In case of emergency, call 999 or visit the nearest police station.

Safety: Ensures safety and quick response in case of an emergency
Legal Compliance: Follows the correct procedure for seeking help in an emergency
Peace of Mind: Gives visitors peace of mind, knowing they can seek help when needed

Avoid public displays of affection, as it is considered inappropriate and offensive.

Respect: Shows respect for local customs and cultural norms
Avoidance of Offense: Prevents offense or violation of local social norms
Cultural Sensitivity: Helps visitors to blend in and feel comfortable during their stay

Use your right hand for eating and avoid using your left hand. Wait to be told where to sit.

Respect: Shows respect for local customs and cultural norms
Cultural Sensitivity: Avoids offense or violation of local dining etiquette
Enjoyment: Enables visitors to have an enjoyable and respectful dining experience