On the beach and at water-parks, swimwear is appropriate and not a problem. However away from these environments, such attire can cause offense to the local population as can mini skirts and any other overtly revealing clothing. It is also not appropriate for men to walk around without a top on away from the beach. Therefore when going to shopping malls, and other public places, it is only respectful to dress in a slightly more conservative manner.

Be prepared to be patient. Most administrative procedures will take a while to be completed. In Dubai, to get anything validated often requires a lot of paperwork to go along with it. Getting stressed therefore won’t help speed up the process.

Don’t take photographs of any local people without asking prior permission. While the local community are very accommodating towards visitors, asking before taking someone’s photo is common courtesy. Also try to avoid photographing buildings of political or military importance.

If for any reason you find yourself getting stopped by the police, don’t stay in your vehicle, but get out of the car and greet the police officer. This is opposite of what happens in most western countries.

Be careful not to swear or shout offensively at anyone. This is the case in any country, but in Dubai it will viewed more seriously.

Make sure not to kiss in public, a quick kiss on the cheek is fine, but more passionate displays may cause offense and are simply not appropriate.

Don’t drink and drive. Again this should apply to any country, but Dubai in particular has a no tolerance policy to this issue, and you can expect anything from one month in prison, to deportation. Taxis are very cheap and readily available, so if you are planning to drink then there is really no excuse.

Be sure not to eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public between sunrise and sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. This is both offensive and illegal. Delivery services are still available to order from, and many hotel restaurants still stay open during the day.