From Bedouin pearl divers to Burj Khalifa in 50 years — Islamic values, 200+ nationalities, and incredible transformation.
• Official religion: Islam
• Friday = holy day (weekend: Sat-Sun)
•
Ramadan: Holy month. No public eating during daylight
• Mosques
everywhere. Call to prayer 5x daily
• Respectful of all religions — churches, temples
exist
• 88% expat! Only 12% Emirati
• 200+ nationalities
• Indians = largest
group (~30%)
• English widely spoken
• Every cuisine available
• Incredibly
international
• Emirati men: Kandura (white robe) + Ghutra
• Emirati
women: Abaya (black robe)
• Expats: Western clothes OK
(dress modestly in public)
• Malls/beaches: Casual OK
•
Handshake: Wait for women to extend hand first
• No public intoxication
• No offensive
language/gestures
• Photography: Ask permission. No
military/government buildings
• PDA: Minimal in public
• Very
safe: One of the lowest crime rates globally