Joanna James
Culture in Dubai is clear cut, but how should you dress, and should you tip the waiters? Is alcohol consumption allowed? Here are 10 tips for a fun and safe visit to Dubai.
Unfortunately, Dubai has only two seasons – hot and hotter. The period between October and April is generally known as the winter season, and usually brings endless blue skies and idyllic beach weather to the city. It also sees a rainy season, but the rain showers typically don't last long, so don't let this fact affect your travel dates.
Dubai has evolved into becoming a popular vacation spot, which sees a steady influx of visitors from October through April. If you are keen to stay in any of the Palm Jumeirah hotels including the likes of Avani Palm View Dubai, then do consider booking your hotel a few months in advance to avoid disappointment and also to grab a good hotel deal for early bird offers.
If your visit happens to coincide with the holy month of Ramadan, which is celebrated during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, do make sure to respect the Muslim culture and the practice of fasting. This means you are not allowed to eat, drink or smoke in public between sunrise to sunset.
While packing your vacation wardrobe, choose conservative over revealing and flashy clothing. Women's clothing should not be too tight, transparent, or short. Do dress modestly to avoid getting unwanted attention and respect the local Muslim culture.
Never take a photo of or with a stranger without asking for permission first. Unless you are taking a scenic shot in tourist areas. Also never take a picture of Muslim women without her permission, this applies to any government buildings, military installations, and airports, etc. as well.
Tipping is a practice that isn't really expected in Dubai, nonetheless, it has become common practice. Keep in mind that most restaurants and cafés will add a tip to your bill. When it comes to taxi drivers, they don't expect to receive a tip.
Generally, taxis are considered a great mode of transportation around the city. There are enough and more taxis to get around and are quite cheap. However, do not assume your driver will know every street and restaurant in Dubai. They might not always know the city as well as they should. So to make sure you end up where you want to be, give them references to city landmarks if they do not have GPS, or google maps to refer to.
While alcohol is legal in Dubai, drinking in public, public drunkenness, and drunk driving are strictly prohibited. Purchasing alcohol for your own use without a legal permit is not possible, you are required to buy it from an establishment that has its own license. Purchasing drinks at a restaurant or bar is not a problem.
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