Discover Dubai July 2015 | Page 11

Q. Can I wear the local dress? A. There is nothing that states you cannot dress like a local, but it’s best to remember that once in that attire you may be mistaken for one! So best to learn the protocols, mind your manners and understand you may be representing (or misrepresenting) someone’s culture. Q. Is it okay to take pictures of a local/Emirati? A. It depends on the person, ask first and if they refuse don't be offended, some might be in a hurry to get somewhere or may simply be shy and do not want their picture taken. Q. Is it okay to hold hands, and even hug and kiss your wife/husband in public? A. It's definitely okay to hold hands, but in public please conduct yourselves in a respectful manner. It’s expected to see an embrace at the airport, but these types of gestures are not typical in local society, therefore visitors and residents are asked to keep intimate exchanges ‘family friendly’. arium Q. Is it okay to show the bottom of your feet? AL RASHIDIYA A. In the past, walking in the village was not as tidy as it is today, so when you entered a home, one removed their shoes. Even if you wore sandals your feet may have become soiled and unsightly. Today, mostly the elderly would expect you not to show the bottom of your feet as a sign of respect. UMM Rashidiya THE LAGOONS Al Badia Golf Club Al Badia Golf Club Helidubai Dubai Festival City Dubai Festival City RAMOOL Q. Can we enter a mosque? Festival Marina Festival Marina A. Only if you are joining a guided tour through SMCCU (in Dubai) DUBAI and currently Jumeirah Mosque and the Diwan Mosque in the historic INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT district of Dubai are open weekly for tours. Emirates C Creek Airport Terminal 3 Terminal 3 Culture Village AL GARHOUD Q. Why are alcohol and pork only served in limited areas in Dubai? Terminal 1 Al Jaddaf Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Airport Terminal 1 Terminal 2 A. This comes from religion regarding do’s and don’ts. So no to alcohol, but here in Dubai it is legal in places like hotels and private residences (if you have a permit), but absolutely no tolerance for it in public or behind the wheel. As