Do's and Don’ts in the UAE
Bathing suits are OK only in hotel pools and private beaches
Men are also expected to dress decently with no bold overtones.
Absolutely no cross-dressing
Holding hands and kissing are unacceptable and can lead to arrest
During Ramadan, the Muslim fasting month, people are expected to abstain from alcohol, dancing, chewing gum, smoking and singing in public during the day
Eat/drink with your right hand as the left hand is considered to be unhygienic in this part of the world
Don’t show the soles of your feet or shoes as this implies disrespect to others — that you are comparing the person to soles or ‘dirt’/‘trash’
If a Muslim is praying, do not walk in front of him or stare at him
If you have not accepted Islam as your religion, take prior permission before entering a mosque
Do not point fingers at others as this is considered disrespectful
Taxi passengers should avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxicab;“small talk” can be misinterpreted as over-friendliness or even a form of propositioning by taxi drivers
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are often considered illegal or a controlled substance.
Keep your medicines in their original containers and bring a letter from your doctor as a well as a copy of your prescription with you
Possession of illegal drugs, or the presence of an illegal substance in a blood or urine test, clothing, body, or in your luggage, could lead to arrest
Don’t drink and drive. Alcohol is served at bars in major hotels but is intended for hotel guests.
Drinking or possession of alcohol without a Ministry of Interior liquor permit is illegal and may lead to fines and imprisonment
Avoid making obscene hand gestures, using inappropriate (foul) language to a police officer