ABU DHABI // After he and his daughter were shocked to see a couple kissing at a mall, Mohammed Al Qubaisi decided to set up a website on UAE etiquette.
He hopes that the site, Before You Go To UAE, helps expatriates and tourists understand the country that they are visiting and avoid conflict.
“It is important for foreigners to respect our culture here in the UAE because we were raised according to certain rules and traditions that we must abide by,” said Mr Al Qubaisi, 40, a father of five from Abu Dhabi.
These traditions include ways of dress, etiquette when interacting with others and “general behaviour” in public, he said.
Mr Al Qubaisi has written about the “dos and don’ts” of the UAE, advising people to respect ladies’ sections, face people who are speaking to you, and using your right hand to greet someone and take, give or accept something.
“Don’ts” include staring at people or pointing the sole of your shoe to someone’s face, which are considered rude, as well as not touching the Quran if you are not Muslim.
The .com domain website also includes information on geography and climate, as well as different emirates and suggestions of what to bring to the UAE. He is working on adding more information.
Mr Al Qubaisi said he has had some positive feedback from visitors about the site.
The most important recommendation he has is for people to dress appropriately.
“I believe that the most important note I would give foreigners is to dress modestly,” he said.
“This is the most common issue we face here, as Emiratis, with foreigners.”
Mr Al Qubaisi said he has learnt about following local culture from his travels to other countries.
“Visiting another country is like visiting someone’s house. There are certain rules you should abide by to enjoy your stay.
“Any person, as an expat in any other country, should respect the fact that you are visiting someone else’s country.
“However, while you are there, you want to make it pleasurable for both you and the citizens of that country.”
lcarroll@thenational.ae
