What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Abu Dhabi?
We asked people in Abu Dhabi if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"Well, don't offer up your left hand (even if the right hand is holding things) to shake someone's hand. All 'dirty' things happen w/ the left hand, and people are quite sensitive to it when it comes to eating," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Abu Dhabi, UAE.
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Abu Dhabi. Respect for local customs and traditions should be observed, including dressing modestly in public, avoiding public displays of affection, and refraining from discussing sensitive topics such as religion and politics. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, such as not consuming alcohol in public or engaging in any activities that are considered illegal. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and to show respect for the local people by being courteous and polite," commented one expat who made the move to Abu Dhabi, the UAE.
AGS Worldwide MoversGet Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Abu Dhabi?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Abu Dhabi?
- Will I be able to find a job in Abu Dhabi?
- What is life like in Abu Dhabi?
- What do expats in Abu Dhabi appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Abu Dhabi?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Abu Dhabi accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Abu Dhabi like?
- What are healthcare services like in Abu Dhabi?
- What are medical services in Abu Dhabi like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Abu Dhabi?
- What are emergency services like in Abu Dhabi?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Abu Dhabi?
- How are local medical facilities in Abu Dhabi?
- As a foreigner living in Abu Dhabi, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Abu Dhabi?
If you live in Abu Dhabi, newcomers to Abu Dhabi would love to hear your answer to this question.

