How to adjust to the local culture in Dubai
Dubai, like most of the United Arab Emirates, is one of the most desirable job destinations worldwide. Over the years, this city has become a second home for so many nationalities, while many more are still on their way. The expat community is enormous and accounts for almost 90% of the UAE's population. A fast-growing environment surrounds expats who choose to live here, with the building of new malls, schools, residential complexes, etc.
However, living in the Middle East is much different from what you're probably used to in Western countries.
Dubai's local culture has developed over the centuries, and it amazes visitors in its own way. Most of the UAE's population is Muslim and abides by Islamic traditions. All foreigners are expected to respect the local lifestyle and be familiar with local culture and traditions for a smooth and healthy experience.
Dressing style in Dubai
While walking around the city, you can observe people dressed in beautiful national clothes. Usually, men wear long dresses made of light, airy Kandura cotton. It is called Kandura, and generally, the color is white or cream. Women wear an elegant black dress (abaya) with long sleeves and headscarves to cover their hair (hijab). Sometimes, they cover their faces as well (niqab). Those national dresses are made of light cotton and offer excellent protection against heat.
You wouldn't be expected to dress similarly to the locals but may be required to dress modestly in emirates outside of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Religion in Dubai
Islam is the official religion in the country, but expats in Dubai and across the country can practice their religion freely. However, insulting the Islamic religion or encouraging what is deemed sinful can be punishable by fines or imprisonment. It is also illegal for Muslims to convert to any other religion.
Daily prayers in Dubai
One of the most significant adjustments for the expats is getting used to the five daily calls to prayer. The prayer can be heard anywhere: on the street, at work or home, sometimes even in the mall. As the working week in the Middle East starts on Monday and finishes on Friday, which is considered the holy day when Friday prayers take place, you may notice your Muslim colleagues going on a longer than usual break to partake in these prayers.
Ramadan in Dubai
During the holy month of Ramadan, which starts every year in a different period, Muslims and non-Muslims alike are required to abstain from drinking, eating, and smoking in public places during the fasting hours (from sunrise to sunset) as a sign of respect for Islamic culture. Some restaurants and shops will be closed till sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. After the sunset, everyone can enjoy Iftar (a meal eaten by Muslims after the prayer). A lot of places will then open and offer a wide variety of meals.
Food in Dubai
Another challenge faced by most expats is that of drinking alcohol and eating pork. It is one of the religious don'ts in Dubai. Drinking alcohol is legal in Dubai in some hotels, bars, restaurants, or private residences (if you get a license) but absolutely forbidden in public. Regarding eating pork, it is a dietary restriction mentioned in the Quran. However, you can still find pork in some supermarkets and in a variety of restaurants. It is usually kept separate from the main area in supermarkets and needs to be cooked in a separate kitchen in restaurants. In Sharjah, however, alcohol and pork are still prohibited.
Behaviour in Dubai
Gestures like hugs and kisses are not typical in local society, so be mindful of how you greet specific people. You may encounter a situation where a member of the opposite sex is uncomfortable shaking your hand. This is usually shown by placing their hand over their heart. If you are faced with this, it is customary to return the gesture with a smile and a nod.
Besides the general differences in local culture, there is so much more to discover about Dubai and the rest of the country. Our Dubai forum may be a good place to learn more about the city, interact with other expats, and build valuable connections.
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