🇦🇪 UAE

UAE is a federation of seven emirates where traditional Bedouin values meet global cosmopolitanism. Emirati culture emphasizes 'karam' (generosity), family honor, and Islamic values, while accommodating 200+ nationalities. The concept of 'wasta' (influence through connections) and 'majlis' (traditional gathering) persist alongside skyscrapers. Expats outnumber locals 9:1, creating unique multicultural dynamics.

Cultural Sensitivity: UAE is liberal but Islamic - dress modestly, no public displays of affection. Friday Culture: Holy day, many businesses closed/reduced hours, avoid loud music/activities near mosques during prayer. Ramadan Respect: No eating/drinking/smoking in public during fasting hours. Expat Majority: English widely spoken, international food everywhere. Weather Reality: Summer is scorching (40-50°C), indoor air conditioning essential.

UAE society balances traditional Emirati culture with international expat communities. Emirati nationals enjoy significant privileges but maintain strong cultural values. 'Majlis' (sitting place) culture brings families together for discussion and decision-making. Bedouin hospitality traditions persist - guests are honored. The falcon is national bird, camel racing traditional sport. Business operates on relationships and patience.

Winter (Nov-Mar): Perfect weather, outdoor activities possible, peak tourist season, temperatures 18-30°C. Summer (Jun-Sep): Extremely hot and humid, indoor activities only, temperatures 35-50°C+. Shoulder Seasons (Apr-May, Oct): Hot but bearable, fewer crowds, temperatures 25-40°C. Always dress for intense air conditioning indoors.

Dubai Metro: Modern, efficient, connects major areas, women/children cars available. Taxis: Abundant, metered, Uber/Careem apps popular. Car Rental: Excellent roads, but parking expensive in city centers. Inter-Emirate Buses: Connect Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah. Walking: Limited due to extreme heat - indoor malls with air conditioning preferred.

Budget Travel (AED 200-400/day): Hostels/budget hotels AED 80-200, food courts/street food AED 15-40, public transport AED 10-30, free beaches and mosques. Mid-Range (AED 400-800/day): Mid-range hotels AED 200-500, restaurant meals AED 50-150, attractions AED 50-200, taxis. Luxury (AED 800+/day): Luxury resorts AED 500-3000+, fine dining AED 200-800+, premium experiences, private transport. Very expensive but high quality.

Arabic is official language, but English dominates due to expat majority. Essential Arabic phrases: 'Marhaba' (hello), 'Shukran' (thank you), 'Inshallah' (God willing), 'Maasalama' (goodbye). Hindi, Urdu, Filipino, and other languages widely spoken. Most signs in Arabic and English. Service staff usually multilingual.

UAE is extremely safe with very low crime rates and strict law enforcement. Respect local laws - no drugs (death penalty possible), no public intoxication, no offensive gestures. Don't photograph government buildings or local women. Heat exhaustion is real danger in summer. Emergency: 999 (police), 998 (ambulance). Excellent healthcare system but expensive.

UAE Dirham (AED) is the currency, pegged to US Dollar. Cards universally accepted, contactless payment common. ATMs everywhere. Typical costs: Shawarma AED 8-15, Coffee AED 15-25, Metro ride AED 3-8, Mall food court AED 20-40, Mid-range hotel AED 200-500/night. Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants, AED 5-10 for services.