LOCAL CULTURE
Dress
The dress code in Dubai is reasonably relaxed. However, modest clothing that covers your body is recommended, especially in rural areas.
Etiquette
Sitting in a way that shows the soles of your feet to an Emirati is considered impolite.
Photography
Photography of palaces, government institutions, military installations and oil and gas refineries is prohibited. Always ask before taking pictures of local people, especially women who may well decline your request.
Tipping
Tax and service charges are usually included in the bills, otherwise a five to ten percent tip is considered adequate. In taxis, usually round up to the next AED 5.
DID YOU KNOW ?
Abras
The best, if not the fastest, way to cross from Deira to Bur Dubai is by boat. The cost for a one-way crossing is AED 1.
Dates
The United Arab Emirates is the fourth-largest exporter of dates in the world.
Fridays
The normal working week in Dubai is Sunday to Thursday. This means the roads are much quieter on Fridays and the shopping malls busier.
Shisha
The shisha pipe is a water-based pipe for smoking, very popular in the Middle East. It can be used for smoking either tobacco or herbal fruits.
Water
The UAE is the second-largest producer of desalinated water in the world and the third-largest consumer per capita of water in the world. It is perfectly safe to drink the tap water in major cities. However, as a precaution you should stick to bottled water when travelling.
WHAT TO PACK
Camera
There are two things that Dubai has in abundance, sunshine and photo opportunities. Head over to the old area of Dubai in Deira or Bur Dubai to get a shot of the traditional side of Dubai, not often in the guide books.
Sunglasses
Dubai has very little annual rainfall, with bright sunny days almost all year round. Perfect for alfresco dining, but do make sure you bring a good pair of sunglasses.
Walking shoes
If you are planning to explore the mega-malls and souks, make sure you pack your walking shoes.