UAE | General
Playing by the rules of Emirati society
People from all walks of life are welcome as long as they abide by the country's laws and regulations.
- By Fatma Salem, Staff Reporter
- Published: 22:57 September 25, 2009
- A man takes a shower to clean up on Jumeirah Beach. Beachgoers, both men and women, should wear conservative swimwear acceptable to the country's culture.
- Image Credit: Francois Nel/Gulf News
Dubai: Any society is officially governed by rules and certain procedures that normally known and followed by everyone. The UAE society is hospitable and welcomes all not only under its umbrella but also under its terms and conditions.
It is the duty of every citizen, resident, and visitor to show respect for the symbols of the UAE's rulers, flag, and national emblem.
Personal freedoms in the UAE are guaranteed to all. However, freedom stops when it endangers people's lives, health, security or liberty. Moreover, the exercise of these personal freedoms shall be governed by the laws of the UAE.
Islam does not differentiate between nationalities and race. Therefore, respect for cultural differences and equal treatment of people regardless of their origin is the fundamental base of the community of Dubai where security and peace prevail.
Swearing, profanities, insults and vulgar speech are strictly forbidden in the UAE and legally reprehensible in case of complaint. All kinds of aggressive or offensive gestures are considered a public offence and are subject to fines or imprisonment.
Waiting patiently for one's turn to be served rather than jumping the queue is common courtesy. Queues must be respected and patience exercised. They must not be jumped. Priority shall be given to the elderly, people with special needs and pregnant women.
The basic rules of courtesy require people to respect the peace and tranquillity in public places. This can be done by avoiding loud conversations or where a person avoids answering their phone where it may disturb others, for instance, in movie theatres, conference rooms, shops requiring near-silence and restaurants, hospitals, and other such places.
The spread of false news, statements, rumours and malicious propaganda that disturbs public security and harms the public interest are serious crimes which are punishable by law. Photographs of people, especially those of women and families in public places, shall not be taken without their permission. Such acts of photographing people without their consent is a sensitive issue in the country's culture.
Beachgoers, both men and women, should wear conservative swimwear that is acceptable within the UAE culture.
Swimwear should not be worn outside the beach, as decent dress is the rule in the rest of the city. Nudity is strictly forbidden in every part of the country.
Dancing and music:
Loud music and dancing are forbidden in public places like parks, beaches, or residential areas and must be restricted to licensed venues only.
Begging and street vendors:
Begging is forbidden in all parts of UAE. Selling any kind of goods or services without a license from the competent authorities is illegal.
Substance abuse:
The consumption of alcohol as well as any other drug or psychotropic substance is strictly prohibited in Islam and is punishable by law. Due to the large diversity of cultures and nationalities present in UAE, alcohol consumption is closely regulated.
Alcohol consumption:
Alcohol consumption shall be confined to designated areas (for instance, licensed restaurants and venues that serve alcohol to their clients). Being caught under the influence of alcohol outside these places (even in light doses) can lead to a fine or incarceration.
Driving and alcohol:
The UAE has adopted a zero-tolerance policy in terms of driving under the influence of alcohol. Being caught driving with even the smallest dose of alcohol can lead to a fine, incarceration or deportation.
Purchasing alcohol:
Buying and selling alcohol is controlled by very strict laws. Alcohol is exclusively sold by specialised licensed stores. It can only be bought by holders of an alcohol-purchasing license (this license is only attainable by non-Muslims). Buyers shall respect the local culture by carrying their alcohol in paper bags so that it cannot be seen.
Smoking:
Smoking is not allowed in government facilities, offices, malls and shops. Smoking outside designated areas is subject to a fine.
Public facilities:
Public facilities (for instance public parks, benches, bus stops, etc.) shall be kept in good conditions. Concerned authorities must be informed of any damage.
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