Special Features
Essential Do’s And Don’ts In UAE
When you travel to a new country, it is always wise to have an idea of the Do’s and Don’ts and just like any other country, UAE has certain rules and regulations that must be adhered to in order to ensure a safe, secular and respectful environment for all. Here is a checklist of essential do’s and don’tsDress Code
Emirati men or Arab citizens from GCC states usually wear the traditional clothing of their native country. Many Muslim women civer their hair with a scarf and wear a long, black robe called the abaya.
It is essential for expatriates men and women to dress modestly at all times. Swimming attires can only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools – topless sunbathing is not allowed.
All malls advertise the type of clothing that is considered permissible while shopping in the UAE.
Drugs and Alcohol
UAE adopts a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol – it is a punishable offence to drink, or to be drunk, in public. To purchase or consume alcohol in the privacyof their homes, residents can obtain a liquor license. However, the license will be applicable only in the emirate where it has been issued - a permit issued in Abu Dhabi, for example, is not valid in Dubai. The penalties for drug trafficking or smuggling are severe. The possession and/or import of even the smallest amount of drugs can result in a minimum prison sentence of four years.
Languages Used
Arabic Is the most commonly spoken language, followed by English, French, Russian, Hindi and more. Almost all official documents, forms, laws and decrees are in Arabic. Therefore, it would be advisable to have working knowledge of the language.
Medication
Some prescribed and over the counter medicines that are available outside of the UAE are considered controlled substances within the emirates. It is best to procure a prescription or prior permission from UAE’s ministry of Health before travelling with such medicine to the UAE. Failure to do this may lead to prosecution under UAE law. For more information and to view the list of controlled medication, visit the Ministry of Health’s website: www.moh.gov.ae.
Etiquette
UAE is very particular about public displays of affection and there have been several arrests for kissing in public. Sex outside of marriage is considered illegal and unmarried couples indulging in adultery risk prosecution, imprisonment and/or a fine and deportation. If an unmarried woman gives birth in the UAE and is brought to the attention of the authorities, she may face severe punishment – ranging from a refusal to issue a birth certificate to arrest and imprisonment. Cohabitation (including in hotels), cross-dressing and homosexual behavior are also banned in the country.
Censorship and Photography
Photography of certain government buildings is not permitted and taking pictures of military sites is totally not allowed. It is also advisable not to photograph people (especially women) without their permission.
One should also avoid bringing any magazines, DVDs or books with pornographic content into the UAE. Certain international magazines and newspaper sold in the UAE are censored – all objectionable material is marked in black, while intimate scenes in films shown in the UAE movie theaters are censored.
Pets
The UAE places no restrictions on bringing pets into the country. However, if an individual opts to rent an apartment, the confined space can prove to be a hassle for both the pet and its owner. Additionally, unfavorable climatic conditions make it difficult to leave pets outdoors. Research and decide on the choice of residence first before deciding to bring pets into the UAE.
It is essential to micro-chip al dogs and cats before their arrival in the UAE. The vaccination card would need to display the micro-chipping details. If handwritten, it would need to be stamped by the veterinarian.
