Guest Etiquette in the UAE: Official Visitor Guidance
Official UAE visitor guidance outlines expectations around accepting refreshments, using the right hand for food and drink, greeting senior guests, handshake customs across genders and photographing people. These points apply to interactions with hosts rather than every encounter.
Accepting Refreshments Before Business
The official visitor page advises accepting refreshments before moving to business when sharing a meal with a host. Readers might consider whether this sequence applies to their specific meeting context.
Using the Right Hand for Food and Drink
Food and drink are customarily accepted with the right hand, according to the guidance. This note concerns eating and drinking rather than other exchanges.
Standing for New and Senior Guests
The guidance advises standing for new guests, older people or senior guests. Visitors can observe who enters a room and respond accordingly.
Handshake Customs Across Genders
Visitors are advised not to initiate a handshake with a Muslim person of the opposite gender unless that person offers their hand first. Wait and follow the lead of your counterpart.
Asking Permission Before Photographing People
The page says not to photograph people without permission. As an editorial suggestion, ask before taking photographs of individuals or entering private spaces, recognising that preferences vary among residents.