Greetings
Greetings are an essential part of the culture in the United Arab Emirates. When meeting somebody for the first time, it is customary to shake hands while saying “As-salaam-alaikum.” This phrase is often translated in English as “peace be upon you” and is the standard greeting in the UAE. Depending on the formality of the situation, it can also be followed by an exchange of short pleasantries, such as asking how someone is doing.
Let’s explore the other cultural customs surrounding greetings in the UAE:
Handshakes
The traditional Islamic greeting is best observed when meeting locals in the United Arab Emirates, although handshakes and embraces between sexes (not encouraged) are now offered on occasion. One should follow the general rule that the Muslim or the most senior person should make the first move. However, if a foreigner stands firmly with their hands behind their back, they may end up in highly awkward silence, as it appears they are not interested in greeting at all.
When shaking hands, men pat each other on the right arm or shoulder. When shaking hands with female strangers, always make sure you offer your right hand for a handshake, as this is more polite and respectful than offering your left hand in certain cultures.
Handshakes of business partners may be firmer and more extended than social handshakes, which tend to remain light and swift. Showing your respect for Islam can be done through a gentle but firm handshake combined with eye contact from both parties. Men also will often raise one of their hands to their chest after shaking as a sign of consideration for Muslim culture by not touching women inappropriately.
Greeting with Honorific Titles
In the UAE, address someone by their name followed by their name or the title if you don’t know them. Greetings often start with a handshake, and a few pleasantries like “how are you?” or “How is your family?” before asking how the other person is doing.
Honorific titles play an important role in social interaction and communication in the United Arab Emirates and should be used when greeting people. When addressing someone, try to phrase questions respectfully, avoid interrupting, and observe any prescribed protocols for honoring authority figures.
Common honorifics such as “Hajji/Hajjah” (for someone who has performed Hajj), “Mubarak/Mubarakah” (for newlyweds), and ‘Sayyid/Sayyidah’ (for descendants of Muhammad) should be made use of when addressing anyone respectfully. The most common title is “Sheikh,” combined with a man’s first name. For women, depending on their marital status, they can be addressed as “Sheikha” (wife of Sheikh), “Umm” (mother) followed by her son’s name, or simply prefixing her first name with “Bedouin style.”
Dress Code
The dress code in the United Arab Emirates is essential, and visitors should take the time to understand and respect local customs. Generally speaking, Emirati men typically wear the kandura, an ankle-length white tunic. Women wear a traditional black cloak called the abaya, and some cover their heads with a hijab.
There are special occasions and areas where more modest dress is expected, such as mosques. It is essential to be aware of local etiquette when dressing to ensure you show the appropriate respect.
Traditional Clothing
In most districts of the UAE, traditional clothing is trendy and is a symbol of many locals’ national pride. Men typically wear a thoub (a long white full-length shirt) and a gutra (an Arab headdress), along with either a bisht (embroidered cloak) or an agal (black rope). Women in the UAE generally wear abayas – loose-fitting, full-length robes – along with coverings for their head and face, known as hijabs.
Although this traditional attire is not required in all cities, it is considered respectful to dress modestly when visiting cultural sites or religious places of worship. For example, they should cover their arms, legs, and cleavage in public areas to remain sensitive to local beliefs and customs.
Western-Style Clothing
Western-style clothing is not generally frowned upon in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, when dressing for the workplace, work functions, and other public gatherings, it’s essential to dress appropriately. In addition, visible tattoos and other body piercings should be covered whenever possible.
Women should note that all areas except the face and hands should be covered with loose-fitting garments such as trousers/slacks, skirts below the knee, and long-sleeved shirts (with no plunging necklines). In addition, hair should be kept away from the face.
Men should wear slacks/trousers, a collared shirt or a T-shirt (no singlets), and closed shoes.
The UAE is Islamic, and a conservative dress code must always be observed in public displays of affection, including holding hands.
Eating Customs
The eating customs and etiquette of the United Arab Emirates reflect the region’s hospitality and culture. For example, dining etiquette in the UAE includes serving dishes with many small servings to ensure that all guests can taste each food.
It is customary to place the main dish in the middle of a dinner table for easy access for all guests. People use their right hand to pass the food around and take it from communal dishes.
Table Manners
When visiting or living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it is essential to be aware of the country’s cultural customs, as well as its etiquette and manners. It is essential when dining out, where it is crucial to observe proper table manners.
Generally, when eating in a formal restaurant, guests should avoid eating with their hands or using cutlery for anything other than eating the food. It is acceptable to use both hands when passing food around and helping oneself with bread. However, it is important to remember that a spoon should always be used when serving oneself – never use your hands.
Guests should also:
- remain seated while they are eating
- please refrain from talking and making noise while they are chewing
Eating in public can be offensive, and visitors should be particularly mindful of not eating while walking down the streets. It is also advised not to wander around restaurants licking fingers or picking teeth – such behavior will be frowned upon by locals!
When dining out, it’s best to wait until everyone’s meal has been served before eating; this shows respect for all present at the table. Guests should also remain polite throughout an entire meal and refrain from making any comments about food that might appear rude or ungrateful. Finally, it’s polite to thank one’s host after a meal.
Formal Meals
Formal meals are among the most important aspects of UAE cultural customs and etiquette. Whether eating at home or when invited out, local cuisine is served in generous portions and shared with everyone around the table. Generally, formal meals will begin with Quranic readings and blessings. Guests are also politely reminded to leave some food on their plates at the end of a meal to indicate they have had enough.
Other customs related to dining include:
- Taking some time during or after a meal to have a little leisurely chat before leaving the table.
- Washing their hands before and after the meal.
- Avoiding blowing one’s nose, speaking too much, or entering into controversial topics of conversation.
- Waiting until being formally invited by the host before serving themselves servings from communal dishes.
- Observing shariah law pertains to separate seating arrangements for genders outside family members.
Gift Giving
Gift-giving is an essential part of the culture in the United Arab Emirates. Gift-giving is a sign of appreciation and respect in this culture, and it is often expected that when you meet someone for the first time, you should bring a small gift. There are certain cultural rules regarding gift-giving, such as the type of gift you should get and how to exchange it. Let’s take a closer look.
Appropriate Gifts
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it is customary to bring a gift for the host when invited for a meal. Avoid bringing too costly gifts, making it seem like you are trying to curry favor. Gift ideas include cakes or chocolates, fragrant flowers such as roses, or something of the host’s culture, such as artwork, books, music, or traditional handicrafts. It is best to avoid taking expensive presents such as jewelry or electronics since they may be seen as grossly inappropriate and suggest an element of bribery. If you cannot bring a gift in time for a dinner engagement, consider sending it through your hotel.
When planning to visit someone’s home in UAE, always dress modestly and conservatively. No matter your gifts, they should be presented neatly and thoughtfully wrapped with ribbons and bows. Avoid wrapping them in the white paper if it has writing because this is said to bring bad luck upon the recipient. Giving money as a gift should be given by hand and not with other items on display. Keep your voices lowered and never take photos without permission from every guest in the house, even if it is being done on an electronic device such as a mobile phone or iPad camera app.
Giving gifts is an expression of gratitude for the hospitality guests give; therefore, proper etiquette should always be observed when presenting them in UAE!
Gift Wrapping
When it comes to gift giving in the United Arab Emirates, gift wrapping is an essential part of the process. Gifts are expected to be wrapped neatly and presented attractively. Some of the most popular gifts to give are items related to traditional Emirati cultures, such as conventional garments, fragrances, and spices.
Many people use brightly colored paper for gift wrapping that displays words such as “happiness” and “good luck” in Arabic, expressing appreciation and respect for local customs. Other forms of expressing gratitude for cultural traditions include:
- Folding the lid and securing it with a colorful string or ribbon.
- Decorating with flowers made from tissue or crepe paper that are often associated with special occasions.
Additionally, it is customary to provide a card expressing thanks or congratulatory wishes along with the gift. Giving thoughtfully chosen and beautifully presented gifts is a great way to show respect when visiting the United Arab Emirates.
Social Etiquette
When traveling to the United Arab Emirates, it is essential to know the cultural customs and etiquette to ensure you show the local people respect and observe their mores. Social etiquette in the United Arab Emirates is based on the Islamic faith and is particularly strict regarding dress codes and behavior. The local population expects visitors to adhere to a certain level of decorum.
Let’s take a closer look at the social etiquette in the UAE:
Conversation Topics
An essential part of any conversation in the United Arab Emirates is to remember to keep the topic appropriate. For example, talking about religion, politics, or money is not polite. Additionally, it is considered rude to inquire about a woman’s employment status or any other issues regarding her personal life. Be aware of conversations and topics that may appear offensive or prying.
Other popular topics for conversation can include art, music, history, culture, and cuisine.
It is also important to note when talking with someone from the United Arab Emirates that occasionally, people may make direct eye contact during conversation; this does not indicate disrespect but rather expresses interest in what you have to say. In addition, occasionally, it’s common practice for people from this area to wait until after a discussion has been concluded before exiting the room; it’s best if you follow suit and allow them time to exit first before departing yourself.
Lastly, men should not physically contact an Emirati woman as they would in other countries outside of Arabia, as such behavior is seen as inappropriate and offensive.
Respect for Elders
The people of the United Arab Emirates greet each other with great respect, and it is important to observe this same level of respect for the elderly in the country. In social situations, offer thoughtful assistance and demonstrate humility accordingly.
Greetings are always followed by a handshake, though not necessarily with every person present in a group setting, just those of higher age or authority than you. It is customary to kiss three times on the cheeks in an embrace when greeting family members.
Respectful language should always be used when speaking to elders, and it is best to avoid criticism or negative comments. One must also display good posture and be aware of body language in their presence, as well as exercise good listening skills and wait for instructions before speaking up or taking action.
Additionally, do not start conversations involving controversy or topics considered inappropriate for discussion, as any senior Emiratis will not accept this behavior regardless of social context. Remain aware that issues such as religion are sensitive, so remain conscious during polite conversations when addressing these matters amongst elders.
Business Etiquette
Business etiquette in the United Arab Emirates follows similar customs to those of other countries in the Middle East, with some unique local nuances. People in the UAE are very polite and respectful, and it is essential to dress appropriately and respect their customs. Here are some key tips to keep in mind when doing business in the UAE:
- Be punctual and respectful when meeting with business associates.
- Greet those you meet with a handshake and a smile.
- Dress conservatively and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
- Avoid discussing religion, politics, or other sensitive topics.
- Be mindful of local customs and avoid public displays of affection.
- Exchange business cards at the beginning of a meeting.
Meeting Protocol
Meeting protocol in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is very formal and etiquette-based. Knowing and understanding the local cultural customs and guidelines when dealing with business dealings in the UAE is essential, as these could be pivotal to your success.
Before a business meeting, it is always essential for guests to ensure that their attire is appropriate for the occasion; men should dress smartly in a shirt and trousers, while women typically wear a conservative business suit or traditional Islamic clothing such as an Abaya, Hijab, etc. Shoes must be removed before entering mosques or during certain religious ceremonies but not at other times– however, sandals and flip-flops should generally be avoided.
Greeting someone in the UAE should generally consist of a handshake; it will often be accompanied by a “greeting” such as “Ahlan wa sahlan” (Welcome). In addition, business cards are generally exchanged upon meeting one another– you may also exchange some pleasantries, but make sure not to raise any controversial topics of conversation such as religion or politics unless you have had prior discussions about it with your contacts beforehand.
Remember always to show respect when speaking about someone else’s culture— this could include avoiding discussing any values that may clash between Eastern cultures (like the UAE) and Western cultures (like those from Europe). Upon concluding the meeting, it is customary for both parties to express their gratitude for each other’s time before proceeding with business negotiations if necessary. However, this also depends on how many people are present at the meeting!
Business Dress Code
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), looking professional is considered an essential part of business etiquette, and the appropriate dress code is quite conservative. Depending upon the occasion, business attire proper for both men and women includes a suit, neat shirt or blouse, and low-heeled shoes. Right colors rely on the industry but usually lean more toward neutral colors. Bright clothing should be avoided as it can be interpreted as being inappropriate.
Business meetings between Islamic and non-Islamic cultures are typically less formal, but visitors should dress suitably for a corporate environment. Men should wear dark-colored suits, neatly tied ties, dark socks, and polished black shoes. Women are advised to opt for bright, tailored separates such as a knee-length skirt or trousers with an elegant top or blouse in muted tones that do not reveal too much skin to preserve their modesty. Women should avoid wearing clothing with large prints or slogans; jewelry could distract from what is being said during conversations, so it’s best to avoid wearing excessive jewelry too.
If a headscarf is required, then hijabs in plain colors (black, navy) will suffice; any patterned scarf would be unacceptable for professional occasions such as meeting businesspeople from other countries in UAE cities such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi.