Query: What should I know before going to Dubai?
Context: Dubai is a very tolerant place to live but there are certain rules to follow to make your time here easier and avoid any unnecessary brushes with the law.One must remember that Dubai is an Islamic city, a more modest code of behaviour is required. So here are top tips on how to follow Dubai etiquette:Dress CodeAlthough you will see plenty of exceptions, mainly from tourists, there is a dress code for Dubai and this has been implemented as a show of respect and to avoid any offence being given. To sum it up you should cover your shoulders, cleand legs above the knees and avoid really tight or sheer clothing. Bikinis should only be worn on beaches and around pool areas and should not be of the G string bottom variety. Topless bathing is of course illegal! The dress code matters less so in a bar but you should think about covering up with a handy jacket for the journey.PDAsPublic displays of affection with the opposite sex in Dubai can get you in to trouble- so no kissing, canoodling, fondling in public whatsoever- whether itu2019s with your own husband/wife or not- it can still cause offence. A peck on the cheek or holding hands is fine!Hand GesturesHand gestures in Dubai can cause you to be fined, put in prison or deported- depending on who you get that finger up against! So no matter how crazy the driving do not be tempted to use a rude hand gesture.SwearingSwearing at someone in Dubai is also illegal- whatever happens keep your cool and donu2019t use that potty mouth- it could get you in serious trouble!Take care when swearing over social media, the Internet or via popular instant messaging apps such as WhatsApp, too- if a person is found swearing online to another person and they take offence and complain, they could be fined and jailed, while expats could also face deportation under a federal law governing Internet users.Being DrunkIt is actually illegal to be drunk in public in Dubai and this can also lead to fining, imprisonment or deportation. 99.9% of the time all will be fine but you really need to keep your wits about you. Always, always hop into a taxi straight outside whatever venue you are at- donu2019t be tempted to go for a wander! And whatever you do- never, ever drink and drive- not even one. There is a zero tolerance policy here and it is not worth the risk to yours or othersu2022 lives- again get a taxi, abandon vehicle- use the Safe Driver service! Make sure you have an alcohol licence too!PhotographyNormal tourist photography is acceptable but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women. It is also courteous to ask permission before photographing men. In general, photographs of government buildings, mosques or military installations should not be taken.DrugsDrugs/ narcotics are of course totally illegal in Dubai but there are also prescription drugs, like Valium for example, that also contain prohibited ingredients that are illegal in the UAE and should not be transported here.I hope i have been able to answer you query!#CoachNeeil