Dubai Culture
Culture in Dubai is rooted in Islamic traditions that form UAE National's lifestyles.However,the UAE is tolerant and welcoming to foreigners who do not practice the religion of Islam.Expatriates are free to practice their own religion,alcohol is served in hotels and the dress code is liberal.Women don't face discrimination.Courtesy and hospitality are one of the many virtues of Dubai.Rulers are keen to maintain their culture and do so through a number of practices.One is promoting sporting events that are representative of their past.Falconry,camel racing and dhow sailing are still popular in Dubai.
The official language of the country is Arabic,however most people in and out of the workplace communicate in English.There are so many different nationalities in Dubai,English finds common ground with most people.The majority of road and shop signs,restaurant menus etc.are in both English and Arabic.
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and visitors can dress however they like.Still,a good amount of respect for local customs is appreciated.In deference to local customs and norms it is a good idea for visitors not to wear very short,tight clothing,at least until such time as they are comfortable with the city.UAE nationals usually wear their traditional dress.For men this is the dishdasha or khandura,a white full-length shirt-dress.It is worn with a white or red checked headdress known as a gutra.In public women wear the black abaya,a long black robe that covers their normal clothes.They also wear a headscarf.
