Categories: Travel

United Arab Emirates: Culture & Etiquette

Travelling to the UAE presents opportunities for intrigue and adventure for the solo traveler as well as those venturing out in groups. Whether it be for business or pleasure, the United Arab Emirates is one of the most interesting and sought-after destination for the travel aficionado. The intrigue continues to the offerings highlighted by its culture and etiquette to present a picture of a nation imbued with a consciousness and desire to exemplify good manners and courtesy as an art form. From the cultural expectation of punctuality to the desire to always show respect for the elderly, this nation has sown the seeds of sharing and reaped the rewards through simple actions of enjoying tea, soft drinks, and coffee as a way to establish and build relationships. Emirati customs and culture ensures visitors experience the simplicity of accepting/enjoying at least one cupful of a favorite beverage, and to ignore or refuse this offer is considered discourteous

The Arab world view hospitality as a way of life and many business deals are conducted over meals located at restaurants or hotels, with the implied suggestion that this is to be reciprocated at some time in the near future. The politeness of a host at times prevents one to say “no”, yet bargains are hard-driven and once a deal is made orally or in writing it is expected to be honored. To do otherwise is considered unethical. The Arab business individual word is considered his/her bond and reciprocity is expected even in an oral conversation/commitment. Never be surprised if your business appointment or meeting is continuously interrupted by a message or telephone call as this is the norm even when it may seem chaotic. The expectation for business meetings is to dress conservatively with men expected to wear a suit, and women expected to be attired in clothing covering arms and legs since this is a predominantly Muslim nation. One must remember prayer observance when scheduling meetings as well as for the Muslim holidays.

Food & Culture

Food and beverage is a big part of the Emirati culture with a vibrant industry surpassing $80 billion in 2020. The population seem to have an insatiable appetite for variety in all forms when it comes to food consumption with few exceptions, mostly through religious observances. Surprisingly, the demand for more variety continues to increase as the F&B industry continues to grow. The Emirati cuisine features traditional breakfast dishes such as Baleelat, Beidh Wa Tomat, or Shakshuka · Chabab bread – Emirati pancake, Khameer bread, Khubz Regag – Raqaq Bread. Rice, meat, and fish are staple food in the cuisine, with lamb and mutton more favored than goat, beef, or camel meat. Dates are a constant with most meals and are consumed daily.

Khuzi, or Ghuzi is the national dish of UAE and is a savoring experience for those choosing to partake in this feast. This experience brings together roasted lamb or mutton served on top of a bed of rice and topped with vegetables and nuts. Even with an abundance of international cuisine it is recommended for visitors to indulge in traditional food and local delicacies. Of note are specialties such as Balaleat, Al Harees, Al Machboos, Fottoush, and Thereed to to name a few.

Cultural activities are a must see for the artistic visitor to UAE and some activities of note are visit to historic site such as:

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque,
Al Fahidi Fort
Heritage Village, Abu Dhab
Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, Abu Dhabi

A visit to the Emirates would not be complete without a visit to Abu Dhabi to get an artistic design of Arabic Henna on the hands or feet, or to make the complete transformation ensure it is inscribed on both hands and feet. This nonpermanent procedure is completed using plant dyes and is a creative way to celebrate special occasions.