You think you have everything under control: your flight is sorted, your hotel overlooks the Burj Khalifa, your suitcase is packed like it’s from TikTok. And then you enter a mosque in shorts or wave a selfie stick at a guard and… oops.
The Emirates are a typical holiday destination – but you have to remember a few rules. A different lifestyle, a different culture, a different perspective on what’s appropriate. But don’t worry – you don’t have to get caught in a rut to learn. In this post, I’ll show you the 5 most common mistakes tourists make – and how to avoid them. You’ll save time, money, and a few awkward situations.

1. Thinking that “it’s just desert and skyscrapers”

Aa …​​​​​​​

The UAE is made up of seven different emirates, each with its own vibe, lifestyle, and must-see attractions. In Abu Dhabi, you can visit the jaw-dropping Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – and guess what? It’s free! (0 AED). Meanwhile, Ras Al Khaimah offers an adrenaline rush on the world’s longest zipline – the Jebel Jais Flight (around 350 AED).
If you stick to downtown Dubai only, you might leave thinking the UAE is all concrete and glass – and that would be a real shame.

👉 Instead of just Dubai, make time for 1-2 day trips to other emirates. Example? On my recent trip to Al Ain, an oasis in the mountains, I had Arabic coffee with a retired sheikh who told me about life before oil. It was like something out of Arabian Nights, seriously.

2. Inappropriate clothing – because “it’s hot in here!”

Yes, heat is a daily occurrence. But this is not Ibiza. In the Emirates, respect for local culture = sacredness .
When entering a mosque, they won’t let you in in shorts or with bare shoulders.

Pro tip :
– Women: bring a light, long scarf.
– Men: cover your shoulders and knees in places of worship.
– And for the photo with the camel? Wear something stylish like “Arab chic” – it looks good and respects the local culture.

3. Neglecting transportation – “Uber will get you everywhere!”

You won’t get there. And when you do, your wallet will swell with despair. There are huge distances in Dubai and Uber is a luxury, not an everyday occurrence .
👉 Instead:

• • Buy a NOL pass – metro, tram, bus and water bus ticket. Cost from AED 25 .
• • Metro ride from Dubai Marina to Burj Khalifa – approx. 5 AED .
• • Taxi from Marina to Burj Khalifa – approx. AED 70-80 .
  • Calculate the difference.

Oh, and bonus : Dubai’s metro line is automated. Zero drivers. Like a sci-fi movie.

4. Sightseeing in the wrong month – because “the tickets were cheap”

Read: it was 48°C in the shade and you couldn’t breathe . Cheapest tickets = hellish summer (July-August). The Emirates are best visited from October to May .
Then:

• *You can walk around the souks without wringing your shirt out every 20 minutes.
• *Sunbathing at Kite Beach is paradise, not a fight for survival.
• *You can enjoy a sunset yacht cruise on the Marina (from AED 150 , with snacks).

5. Ignoring local customs – or “mosque selfie with your tongue hanging out”

Yeah, it might look cool, but… don’t do it. In the Emirates, there are specific rules:

• • Don’t show too much affection in public (kissing = fine).
• • Don’t take photos of women in abayas without asking.
• • Do not swear, either in conversation or on social media – it is subject to criminal law.

• The Emirates is a country that welcomes guests with open arms , but expects mutual respect.

My work?

Before you set off, consider yourself a guest. And behave like a well-mannered guest.
In return, you get a country that serves luxury, adventure, safety and sun 360 days a year.
Eat a date, drink Arabic coffee and… don’t make these 5 mistakes.

And if you’re looking for something special – go to Al Seef in Dubai in the evening. Old city, beautiful lights, restaurants on the water, and that smell of spices rising from the bazaars. It’s the 21st century, but you feel like you’re in a Disney movie. Only without the genie.

Q&A / The most frequently asked questions by tourists about the Emirates

1. Do I have to wear a hijab as a tourist?
No. It is enough to wear longer clothes and a headscarf in places of worship (e.g. mosques).

2. Can you drink alcohol in Dubai?
Yes, but only in licensed places – bars, hotels, clubs. On the street and in public places: prohibited.

3. Is it worth renting a car?
Only if you plan on traveling between emirates and are confident in your driving skills on 6-lane highways. In Dubai – metro/taxi is better.

4. Are tips mandatory?
They are not required but are appreciated. AED 5-10 for the driver, 10% in restaurants is a good standard.

5. Do I need to know Arabic?
No. In the Emirates, English is the language of everyday life . But if you say “shukran” (thank you) – you get a big plus.

Want more practical posts and my tried and tested tips from the Emirates? Let me know! And if you’re planning a trip – I’ll help you plan it from A to Z, so you don’t have to worry about anything except a good photo from Burj Khalifa. 😊