Dubai is a place where you can be whoever and whatever you want to be – if you have the money, of course. However, you have to be mindful of your habits. Here are our top 10 weirdest things in Dubai that seem normal elsewhere!
1. Eating using the left hand.
| Athena / Pexels |
Because people are supposed to use their left hand to clean themselves in the toilet. It is considered unclean in Arab culture.
So, left-handed people here's a good rule of thumb: learn to eat with your right hand before you go!
2. Using the balcony
| PatriciaPix/Getty Images |
It's a common habit, but it is prohibited in Dubai.
According to Emirates247.com, it degrades the city's aesthetics and can create a fire hazard.
Additionally, no satellite dishes or trash should be put on the balcony.
You may face a $400 or more penalty if you ignore it.
3. Eating or drinking on public transport
| Tolga Akmen/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images |
Don't do it.
According to The Culture Trip, if you consume food or a beverage on public transportation, you may be fined up to $40.
That's one approach to keep public transportation clean!
4. Sharing a hotel with someone who isn't your spouse
| Pixabay |
If you want to sleep in the same hotel room when not married, Dubai may not be for you.
This is because it's actually illegal to live with a member of the opposite sex who isn't your spouse or closely related.
Please be advised that you have been forewarned!
5. Talking about Qatar
| Pixabay |
If yes, then mind your words in Dubai.
According to The Culture Trip, it is illegal to express praise or favor for Qatar or its culture in public spaces because of tensions between Qatar and the UAE.
Needless to say, even if you are just making small talk, be sure not to mention Qatar in Dubai.
In June 2017, the government passed legislation that makes it unlawful to express Qatar online, in print, or vocally.
6. Wearing revealing clothes
| Pixabay |
If you do this while visiting Dubai and passing through immigration, your vacation may be cut short.
According to The Culture Trip, the top half of a woman's arms and legs must be covered when passing through immigration at Dubai Airport.
Additionally, skirts should reach knee length, and dresses or shirts should cover the shoulders.
To avoid a fine of up to $2,000, be sure to pack some loose clothing on your Dubai holiday.
7. Kissing or hugging in public
| Pixabay |
The Travel.com writes that you can have a relationship with whomever you please but should avoid flaunting it in public.
Couples kissing and hugging in public may be fined under the public decency law.
8. Cross-dressing
| David Shankbone / Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 3.0 |
However, it is unclear how strict this rule is enforced.
There are gender-specific clothing stores all over Dubai, so there are no shortages of opportunities for men looking to purchase female clothes.
9. Using the 'OK' sign
| Pixabay |
Therefore, please refrain from using this gesture in public as it could land you a steep fine or even deportation!
It is actually considered an obscene act, and many people use it intentionally to get reactions from people.
It is deemed offensive, rude, and should never be done anywhere in public!
Even if your friends are doing it, avoid it, or you could get in a lot of trouble with the local authorities!
So remember this rule to make your trip an enjoyable one!
10. Using your finger to call people.
| H. Armstrong Roberts/ClassicStock/Getty Images |
For instance, calling someone over with your finger.
This is considered offensive to natives, who use the gesture to get their dogs' attention.
