Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is a country which greatly appeals to many Britons as a holiday destination. That said, it’s easy for British holidaymakers to underestimate quite how different the culture is in Dubai. What is acceptable in the UK could be illegal in the UAE country, while what we frown upon in Britain is fine in Dubai. Consequently, it can be important for travellers to research ahead to make sure they abide by the expected etiquette.
One area that confuses globe-trotters all over the world over is tipping – how much and when.
There are places and times in the UK when one would never consider offering a gratuity.
However, this might not be the case in Dubai. For instance, they have different manners when it comes to paying in a supermarket – and you should tip cashiers.
Travel expert company Big Domain (part of the Travel Chapter group) told Express.co.uk what you should know.
“Do consider tipping for most services in Dubai,” Big Domain said.
“Although a huge amount is not expected, supermarket cashiers packing your bags will expect at least some small change.”
Big Domain carried out a survey of over 2,000 British adults who research tipping abroad.
The travel company said of their findings: “10 per cent of survey respondents say they’d never leave a tip for any kind of service here.”
Jo Price, PR Manager of Big Domain comments on the findings: “Although some of the tipping etiquette trends in our research may appear shocking and even a little unreasonable, it’s important to understand that expectations differ widely from destination to destination.
“With this in mind, we highly recommend doing as much research as you can before your trip to find out both the average tipping rate in the area, as well as other common customs that could be considered rude in other countries.
“If you are on holiday and still unsure, try to observe other locals or ask a trusted source such as a concierge or your tour guide operator for their tips on how to avoid any cross-country offences.”
Big Domain research also showed how men and women become more generous towards other services when abroad and tend to tip hotel staff 50 per cent more when on holiday than they would to hotel staff in the UK (34 per cent versus 15 per cent).
The recommended service charge rate, based on a £30 (or equivalent) meal, in Dubai is AED14.27- AED21.41 (10-15 per cent) added the company.
Tipping isn’t the only area are where Britons need to be careful in Dubai. For instance, swearing in public is completely forbidden and uttering the “F-word” in particular is a total no-no.
Saying “f**k” is a crime in Dubai as the swear word “disgraces the honour or the modesty” of a person according to Article 373 of the UAE Penal Code.
Consequently, swearing in public in Dubai can land you in prison for up to a year. There is also a huge fine for swearing, amounting to as high as Dhs 10,000 (£2,000).