When it comes to authentic travel, understanding cultural customs and traditions is incredibly important. Beyond dress codes and sightseeing, this principle also applies to food. Even if you are dining at a 5-star hotel in Dubai, here’s everything you need to know about dining etiquette in the UAE.

The Pre-Meal Greeting

Before you dig into a delicious meal, it is important to greet your host and the elders of the group. Handshakes are often the way to go, paired with the traditional greeting, “As-salamu alaykum”.

Eat With Your Right Hand

In most Arab and Asian cultures, the right hand is the vessel for food. It is considered rude to use your left hand for eating, passing dishes, and accepting food.

Elders First

In Arab cultures, elders are incredibly revered, and showing respect to older members of the group is a part of Emirati culture. If you’re invited to a formal dinner or celebration, be sure to wait till the oldest person at the table begins eating to start your meal.

Accept What Is Offered

As is Emirati tradition, it is considered impolite to turn down any food or drinks offered at the table – whether it’s at a homestay or a celebratory dinner at places like Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai.  Embrace a rich, delicious spread, and turn down dishes in a polite manner with a compliment attached.

Slow Down, Don’t Rush

Image by Olga Ozik from Pixabay

Above all, it is important to understand that meals are not just nourishment. They are often a social engagement, where conversation flows as easily as Karak tea from the pot. So, take your time, savouring each and every bite.