Gestures to Avoid in Dubai – Stay Respectful and Keep Things Easy

Visiting Dubai can be exciting, but a few simple mistakes with gestures can turn a friendly chat into an uncomfortable situation. Knowing which moves are off‑limits helps you blend in and shows respect for local customs. Below are the most common gestures to skip and why they matter.

Hand Signs That Can Cause Trouble

The thumb‑up sign is a classic example. While it means "good" in many places, in the UAE it can be read as a rude insult. Swearing with your middle finger is also illegal and can lead to fines or even detention. If you want to say "thanks," a simple nod or a smile works perfectly.

Facial Expressions and Body Language

Pointing at people, especially with your index finger, is considered disrespectful. Use your whole hand or gently gesture with your palm open instead. Also, avoid prolonged eye contact with strangers of the opposite gender; it can be seen as aggressive. A polite glance is enough.

Physical contact is another gray area. Public displays of affection, even a quick hug, can attract unwanted attention or even police intervention. Keep handshakes brief, and only if the other person offers. If they seem hesitant, just say hello and move on.

When sitting, never point your feet at someone or any religious icons. Feet are considered the lowest part of the body, and pointing them toward a person can be taken as an insult. Tuck your feet under the chair or keep them flat on the floor.

Talking loudly or using a harsh tone might be seen as rude, especially in business settings. Dubai values calm, measured communication. If you’re unsure, mirror the volume of the people around you.

Requests for photos can be tricky. Always ask permission before snapping pictures of people, especially women. A quick "May I take a photo?" with a smile is respectful and usually gets a thumbs‑up.Gesturing with a raised palm to stop a taxi or traffic is acceptable, but using the same hand to wave someone away can be misread as dismissive. Keep gestures purposeful and friendly.

Finally, avoid pointing the sole of your shoe at anyone. In many Middle Eastern cultures, the sole is seen as unclean, and displaying it can be offensive. Keep shoes tucked away or pointed toward the ground.

Remember, the goal isn’t to overthink every move but to stay aware of local sensibilities. If you slip up, a sincere apology in Arabic—"Afwan" (excuse me)—usually smooths things over.

By steering clear of these common missteps, you’ll enjoy smoother conversations, better business deals, and more genuine connections while in Dubai. Keep these tips handy, stay polite, and have a great time exploring the city.