Rules of conduct in the UAE

Alcohol

Alcohol — is one of the most common themes among most foreigners. In the UAE, the official religion is Islam, where drinking alcohol is prohibited. But for non-Muslims, there are some options: you can bring with you (buy at Duty Free at the airport), also available in bars and restaurants that are licensed to sell alcohol. Remember: drinking beverages with a degree is prohibited in public places, and the sale is carried out to persons from 21 years. Important: the emirate of Sharjah is non-alcoholic!

Ramadan

Ramadan — is the holy month for Muslims, when they do not drink anything, do not eat from dawn to dusk, it is also forbidden to smoke and chew gum. If you find yourself in the country at that time, then show understanding and respect for the religious tradition, try not to eat, drink or smoke in public places. It is also advisable to wear closed and discreet clothes. Do not worry, out of respect for non-Muslims, there are special places where you can satisfy your hunger and thirst.

Communication with the locals

Always be polite and courteous. Do not touch children, keep a distance, do not look intently at women. If you are visiting, then greet the elders first, try to give everything with your right hand (the left hand is considered unclean), when you sit down, do not turn your feet towards the person.

Prostitution, drugs and gambling are completely prohibited in the UAE, and the violation carries severe punishments from deportation and imprisonment to the death penalty.

Photographing Muslim women

Taking pictures of Muslim women is unacceptable, it is considered an insult and in case of violation, you can be arrested for three days. If you want to capture the memory of a local man, then first of all ask permission. Attention is strictly prohibited: photos of military facilities and palaces of the sheikhs.

Road rules

The rules of conduct on the road do not differ in anything from most countries. But, if you broke something, just take a receipt for the fine and pay it, never offer a bribe.

Security

Do not swim in prohibited places and, if the black flag is raised! Do not go into the desert alone without a guide. Do not touch wild animals, corals or pick plants.

Travel with pets

It is better to leave your pets at home, because most hotels refuse to stay with them.

The relationship between men and women

Couples better refrain from expressing their feelings in public. For kissing in public places, you can get a fine or even be arrested. According to the law of the country, men and women who are not officially married are forbidden to live together. However, hotels can accommodate couples in a civil marriage in the same room.