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Culture
Etiquette is
important here, and by making an effort to understand local custom
and culture, many doors will open for you.
The culture
here has evolved from a deep-rooted belief in Islam, which is more
than just a religion. It is a total way of life, which governs every
activity and decision that is made in daily life.
These are a
few guidelines for behaviour and dress code that will become a part
of your every day life in the United Arab Emirates.
Business
Although you
will be expected to be on time for an appointment, do not
necessarily expect the same in reverse. Be prepared to be kept
waiting for an appointment, or even for a last-minute postponement
that you will only be notified of on your arrival for the meeting.
Arabs are an
event-orientated people as opposed to time-orientated, and their
hospitality roots stretch back many decades when all passing
strangers were welcomed with shade and coffee during their journey
through this land. The event of getting together is far more
important than the schedule of the event.
Never refuse
refreshments offered, as this will be taken as an insult to your
host. Once you have received your refreshment, you may however, just
take a sip and leave the rest in the glass or cup. Generally
speaking, sweet black tea with fresh mint, small glasses of fragrant
coffee, fruit juice or water will be offered.
Private
Home
Have clean
feet or wear respectable socks, as you will be expected to remove
your shoes at the entrance to the home.
If you are
invited for a meal in a private home that is eaten at floor level,
remember to sit so that the soles of your feet do not face anyone.
Only take food with your right hand.
Do not
explicitly admire anything belonging to your host. Your host would
then be honour bound to make you a gift of the item, and would in
turn expect a gift of the same stature in return at a later stage.
General
Avoid
contentious discussions about religion, the status of women and the
politics of the Middle East. Remember that you are a "Resident
Guest" of the United Arab Emirates and should be respectful of the
culture and way of life here.
By nature, locals are hospitable and extremely courteous. Aggression
and rude behaviour are seldom seen; authority and calm are the norm.
Dress Code
Dress code is
liberal in Dubai compared to other Middle Eastern cities,
particularly in the residential western expat areas where women wear
shorts and sleeveless shirts.
However, Abu
Dhabi is more conservative than Dubai and as a mark of respect it is
advisable for women to dress accordingly.
Long skirts or
long trousers, and T-shirts or shirts with sleeves covering at least
the upper arm should be worn in Abu Dhabi, and any area in the
United Arab Emirates that is predominantly Arab.
Men may dress
casually in the western expat areas, but should wear long pants when
in Abu Dhabi or the downtown area of Dubai.
The dress code
is less formal for children, although adolescent girls would be
advised to dress moderately in order to avoid attention.
Both local men
and local women are easily distinguished by their traditional dress,
which is a common sight in the United Arab Emirates. Men wear the
long white Dishdasha and headdress, while women wear the black
Abaya.
Working
Hours
There are no
set business hours in the United Arab Emirates. Companies will
either choose to work "straight" which is between 08hrs and 17hrs,
or "shift" which is anytime between 08hrs and 13hrs, and then again
between 16h00 and 21hrs or even 22hrs.
Government
departments are open from 07hrs until 14hrs, Saturdays to
Wednesdays.
Banks are
currently open from from 09hrs to 13hrs Sundays to Wednesdays, and
from 09hrs to 12hrs on Thursdays.
Public
Holidays
Most holidays
are based on the sighting of the moon, and are not fixed dates. Many
of them are therefore only confirmed the day before they take place.
Also, note that Eid Al Fitr and Eid al Adha move back by about 10
days per year.
-
New Years
Day
-
Eid Al
Fitr
-
Lailat Al
Qadar
-
Eid Al
Adha
-
Islamic
New Year
-
Ashoora
-
Prophets
Birthday
-
Lailat
Ma’raj
-
National
Day
Work Dress
Code
Men: A tie or
smart open-necked shirt is recommended for office work. A suit is
not necessary, unless visiting high profile locals.
Women: May
wear knee length skirts or dresses, or trousers. Sleeves must cover
the upper arm.
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