Are you thinking of heading to Dubai for the first time? If you are entirely new to the UAE in general, heading here can seem like a bit of a culture shock. However, there are lots of wonderful experiences just waiting for you to take advantage of!
Here’s our quick guide to some of the most important things you’ll need to know before travelling to Dubai.
INDEX
1-What Should I Avoid in Dubai?
2-Do’s and Don’ts in Dubai
3-Can I Use WhatsApp in Dubai?
4-Can I Use My Mobile in Dubai?
5-Conclusion
What Should I Avoid in Dubai?
First of all, be careful with hand gestures! In Dubai and across the UAE, it’s considered very rude to point with your fingers. It’s also a very good idea to avoid making rude hand signals. Believe it or not, these can get you in trouble with the local law.
You should also avoid dressing too ‘informally’ in the city. For both men and women, that means dressing modestly. Try and avoid showing too much skin when out and about in public!
You should also avoid criticising the local culture and spiritual practices. The UAE is a profoundly spiritual country – and it will not be looked on kindly if you are disrespectful.
Do’s and Don’ts in Dubai
Let’s look at a handful of do’s and don’ts before you travel into Dubai and across UAE.
- DO make sure to respect Ramadan – if you travel during the period, you cannot drink or smoke publicly.
- DON’T drink to the point of excess and exhibit drunken behaviour.
- DO make sure to ask permission from people if you’d like to take photographs or videos.
- DON’T overdo it on public displays of affection!
- DO always accept drink and food before discussing business concerns.
- DON’T shake hands with members of the opposite sex unless they extend a hand to you.
- DO make sure to stand if a female or older guest walks into a room.
Can I Use WhatsApp in Dubai?
Unfortunately, WhatsApp is currently blocked in Dubai. That means you will need to connect to a VPN if you wish to use the service while visiting. The same applies to other messaging services, too.
Therefore, if you wish to stay in touch with friends and family via text message or IM, get a VPN! It is legal for you to connect to a VPN. However, always be careful not to use IMs on Dubai connections outright.
Can I Use My Mobile in Dubai?
Yes, on the whole, you will be able to use your mobile phone in Dubai. However, you must check your coverage and any applicable charges with your phone carrier. When using your mobile abroad, you may have to pay extra for calls, texts and data.
Again, it is also worth remembering that some services are blocked in Dubai. Therefore, it’s a good idea to set up a VPN, too, before you travel. Make sure to register with a VPN provider and install an app before you land.
You can then load up the app when you arrive. Should you connect to a server outside of Dubai, your VPN will let you access services otherwise blocked in the country.
Conclusion
On the whole, if you want to make the most of keeping in touch while in Dubai, a VPN is a must! The best VPN service will help you stay connected to the people you love while you travel.
Hello VPN, in fact, is likely to be your best choice for staying connected anywhere in the UAE. At an affordable price and in the form of a user-friendly app, it’s easy to find reliable international servers. What’s more, we’re incredibly proud of our connection stability and resilience – especially across Dubai!
Hello VPN is a versatile app that’s helping thousands of people travelling all over the world. When you can’t stay in touch due to digital barriers, it’s time to work a way around them. Why not take a look at Hello VPN for yourself and unlock the web worldwide?