Culture
Customs
Welcoming to foreigners? In more touristy spots, yes. LGBTQ friendly? Unfortunately not. Homosexuality is illegal in the UAE.
Etiquette tips
Dubai has strict social laws and harsh punishments, including large fines, jail time, and deportation. A few things you should refrain from while you're in public:
Do not swear or use offensive gestures in public
Refrain from public displays of affection, some are banned under the law
Don't appear drunk in public.
How to great people
Don't shake a woman’s hand unless it is offered first. "As-salam alaykum" (peace be upon you) - "Hello" You can also say “alahn” as a more casual way of saying hello. When someone greets you, respond with "wa’alaykum as-salam" (peace be upon you too).
Tipping norms
A tax and service charge will usually be added to your bill, but you can tip extra if you'd like (10-15%).
Food
National dish
Khuzi, or ghuzi, is roasted lamb or mutton with rice and vegetables.
Must try local food
A fresh herb and bulgur salad with parsley.
Machboos is one of the Arabian Bedouins meals, with spiced lamb (or chicken) and rice.
Arabic fried doughnut balls served as a sweet snack.
A popular Middle Eastern dessert with a pastry called kataifi, soaked in a sugary syrup called attar.
Part of the local's daily routine.
A fresh herb and bulgur salad with parsley.
Machboos is one of the Arabian Bedouins meals, with spiced lamb (or chicken) and rice.
Arabic fried doughnut balls served as a sweet snack.
A popular Middle Eastern dessert with a pastry called kataifi, soaked in a sugary syrup called attar.
Part of the local's daily routine.
A fresh herb and bulgur salad with parsley.
Machboos is one of the Arabian Bedouins meals, with spiced lamb (or chicken) and rice.
Arabic fried doughnut balls served as a sweet snack.
A popular Middle Eastern dessert with a pastry called kataifi, soaked in a sugary syrup called attar.
Part of the local's daily routine.
Restaurants to try
Restaurant recommendations from nomads & locals. 4.0+ rating, great atmosphere and authentic food.
Food festivals & markets
Markets in Dubai are called Souks.
Dubai Food Festival (April 28th - May 7th) — Street food trucks offering food from around the world highlight the distinctive culinary culture of the city.
The Specialty Food Festival — Leading Middle Eastern chefs gather under one roof at Dubai's Speciality Food Festival. The festival typically lasts for 3 days in late October/early November.
