UAE for dummies

lets say hello!

man greeting man

• hand shake (lightly) then placing right hand on heart in respect
• kiss on nose
• kiss on both cheeks

woman greeting woman

• kiss on the left cheek three times
• if you don't like kissing, just touch your cheek on theirs

man greeting woman

• no touching normally
• sometimes the woman might extend her hand for a man to shake
• always wait for a man to initiate

communication styles

indirect

• avoiding confrentation

personal space

opposite sex

• unless the person is a family member, stay a little over arms length apart

men and male friends

• it is completly normal for a guy to hold hands with his best guy friend!

"look at me when i'm talking to you"

expectations

• eye contact during convocations is expected
• except with an older person

you're late!

bus, train...

gender roles

look out guys!

OF INDEPENDENCE!

clothes

woman

• expected to wear a burkha or hijab and cover their heads with a scarf or shaila
• visitors are under no obligation to follow this dress code

men

• Men may wear the traditional dishdasha or kandura or a suit or just formal pants and shirt.