What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in UAE?
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," commented one expat who made the move to UAE.
The TEFL Institute of IrelandLearn More
The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.
The TEFL Institute of IrelandThe TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.
Learn More
"Do not park our car outside the yellow lines I got a parking ticket at 7:30 in the morning 200 aed," remarked another expat in Dubai, UAE.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in the UAE?
- How do I meet people in the UAE?
- What is life like in the UAE?
- Is there a lot of crime in the UAE?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in the UAE accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in the UAE like?
- Is the cost of living in the UAE high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in the UAE?
- What are healthcare services like in the UAE?
- Is the cost of living in the UAE high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in the UAE?
- What is the weather like in the UAE?
- Are there good restaurants in the UAE?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in the UAE?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in the UAE?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the UAE?
- What do I need to know when buying property in the UAE?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in the UAE?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
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.
About the Author
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.