Dress code
For those who haven’t visited the Middle East before, knowing what to wear can be a bit of a mystery. The general rule in Abu Dhabi is that it’s best to cover up a little if you don’t want to be stared at. Tops that are too low, or skirts that are a little bit high, may offend. You’ll find that in the summer months you’ll want to stay as cool as possible and will naturally turn to long cotton tops and trousers/skirts. Although it may be accepted in other parts of the world, it’s not advisable for men to remove their shirts in public places as this can cause offence.
Photography
Being an Islamic country, it is best to ask permission when taking pictures of local residents and women in particular. Tourist photography is usually welcomed, although pictures inside some establishments, such as retail stores, is not permitted. Pictures of military buildings, the ports and airport should not be taken.
Opening Hours
Shops and establishments may close in the afternoon, particularly the smaller ones around town. Opening hours are generally from 8.30am to 1pm, and 4pm to 8pm, or later. Main malls will remain open throughout the day and tend to close around 10pm.
Tipping
It is customary to tip when you feel you have received good service, although it is not obligatory. Gratuities to staff at hotels are at your discretion. Restaurant menus should list prices inclusive of the service charge, but some venues may note this separately on the bill. Whether you’d like to leave an extra tip is up to you. The usual tip is 10% of the bill.~
Taxi drivers often give you part of your change and wait to see if you ask for the rest. Tipping them is discretionary but most people tend to give a few dirhams extra. Supermarket baggers, bag carriers and windscreen washers at petrol stations are generally given Dhs2-Dhs5.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted in main hotels, stores and larger shops but in traditional souks, bargaining power is better when paying in cash.
Ramadan
The holy month of Ramadan occurs in the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. During this time, Muslims fast during daylight hours and people are expected not to eat, drink or smoke in public as a mark of respect. Restaurants are typically closed during fasting hours, although hotel restaurants remain open.
Shopping malls are open in the morning but a few may close in the afternoon, opening again in the evening after the sun goes down, often around 7pm. There is no live music played throughout Ramadan and bars and nightclubs close.
Manners
Abu Dhabi is a modern, forward-thinking city, but there are still some do’s and don’ts :
It’s best to try not to stare at local women and avoid looking them in the eye Shaking hands is a complicated business. Local women won’t usually offer their hand and will nod and smile in greeting instead If you’re entering someone’s home, you may be asked to remove your shoes Showing the soles of your feet is a rude gesture, so take care when crossing your legs that the sole of your foot is not pointing towards someone.
Drinking Water
The water is safe to drink in Abu Dhabi but the taste may take some getting used to. Bottled water is priced very reasonably and is readily available. Alcohol It’s possible to drink within hotels and other licensed complexes in Abu Dhabi. Licences are also granted at some major sporting and leisure events.
Alcohol
It’s possible to drink within hotels and other licensed complexes in Abu Dhabi. Licences are also granted at some major sporting and leisure events. Alcohol is tolerated but you should refrain from appearing inebriated in public as there are penalties for drunken behaviour.
Currency
The monetary unit in Abu Dhabi is the UAE dirham which is divided into 100 fils. Notes come into denominations of Dhs5, Dhs10, Dhs20, Dhs50, Dhs100, Dhs200, Dhs500 and Dhs1000.
EXCHANGE
Euro 1 = Dhs 5.3*
GBP1 = Dhs 6*
US$ = Dhs 3.67*
*Approximate and subject to fluctuation
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