The UAE is a modern and welcoming destination, but it has deep-rooted traditions and laws that visitors must respect. These do’s and don’ts will help Indian travelers enjoy a smooth, respectful, and hassle-free experience in this culturally rich country.
1. Respect Local Culture
Do: Dress modestly in public, especially in mosques and traditional areas.
Highlights: – Wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees – Carry a scarf or shawl when visiting religious sites – Swimwear is allowed only at beaches or pools
Don't: Wear revealing outfits in malls, markets, or public transport.
Highlights: – Off-shoulder, short skirts, or low-cut tops may attract warnings – Avoid tight gym wear outside fitness venues – Be mindful in family zones
2. Public Conduct & Behavior
Do: Maintain polite behavior and respect local customs.
Highlights: – Use your right hand for greetings or giving items – Greet with “As-salamu alaykum” if appropriate – Always ask permission before taking photos of people
Don't: Show public displays of affection or act aggressively.
Highlights: – Kissing or hugging in public is not acceptable – Avoid heated arguments or rude gestures – Swearing is considered an offense
3. Alcohol Consumption
Do: Drink only in licensed venues like hotels, bars, or private homes.
Highlights: – Legal drinking age is 21+ – Carry your ID or passport when drinking – Alcohol is available in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, RAK, and more
Don't: Drink or appear intoxicated in public areas.
Highlights: – Drunk behavior in public can lead to arrest – No alcohol in dry emirates like Sharjah – Don’t drive after drinking – zero tolerance policy
4. Photography Rules
Do: Capture tourist spots, architecture, and scenic views.
Highlights: – Beaches, skylines, and mosques (from outside) are fine – Always ask before photographing locals – Respect signs banning photography
Don't: Take photos of people without permission, especially women.
Highlights: – Avoid snapping pictures of government buildings – Military sites and airports are strictly off-limits – Using drones needs special approval
5. Law & Safety
Do: Follow all rules, including traffic laws and visa conditions.
Highlights: – Jaywalking and littering attract fines – Carry a copy of your passport or Emirates ID – Report lost items to police quickly
Don't: Engage in illegal activities or ignore fines.
Highlights: – Drug possession carries severe penalties – Don’t overstretch tourist visas – Avoid political or religious debates in public
6. Food Etiquette & Ramadan
Do: Try local cuisine and eat respectfully in shared spaces.
Highlights: – Say “Bismillah” before eating – Accept food/drink with your right hand – Join locals in Iftar meals during Ramadan
Don't: Eat, drink, or smoke in public during Ramadan fasting hours.
Highlights: – Fasting is observed in public from dawn to sunset – Non-Muslims can eat in screened areas – Avoid chewing gum during daytime in Ramadan
7. Social Media Sharing
Do: Share your travel moments mindfully.
Highlights: – Post scenic photos, food, or cultural events – Tag locations and support local tourism – Promote responsible travel
Don't: Share offensive, misleading, or culturally inappropriate content.
Highlights: – Don’t post photos of strangers without permission – Avoid mocking culture, religion, or leadership – Be cautious with memes or criticism online
8. Transportation & Driving
Do: Use public transport, taxis, or rent a car with valid documents.
Highlights: – Follow seatbelt rules and speed limits – Taxis are metered and safe – Use Nol/Hafilat cards for buses and metro
Don't: Drive without a license or ignore traffic rules.
Highlights: – Don’t use mobile phones while driving – Avoid honking unnecessarily – No eating, drinking, or smoking in public transport vehicles
9. Environmental Respect
Do: Dispose of waste properly and conserve water.
Highlights: – Use recycling bins where available – Carry reusable water bottles and bags – Respect protected areas and nature reserves
Don't: Litter, damage greenery, or feed wildlife.
Highlights: – Fines apply for littering in cities or deserts – Avoid disturbing animals during safaris – Don’t pick plants or shells from nature spots
10. Shopping & Bargaining
Do: Explore souks and bargain respectfully in traditional markets.
Highlights: – Friendly haggling is part of the culture – Learn basic Arabic phrases like “Kam al thaman?” – Compare prices before buying
Don't: Be aggressive or bargain in malls or fixed-price shops.
Highlights: – Don’t insist on discounts where prices are marked – Avoid arguing with staff – Don’t touch items excessively without buying
