Ali Alsaloom, a cultural adviser, offers advice in an open letter to Paris Hilton on the sensibilities of the Emirates and how to avoid pitfalls.
Dear Paris,Okay, I’ll just come right out and admit it: I really don’t know all that much about you. But my female co-worker (who really, really, REALLY wants to meet you) filled me in on all your details, so I feel more comfortable welcoming you to the country. The UAE is like the US in the way that a number of diverse states came together to form a union. Of course, your country has an almost 200-year head start on us, but I think you’ll find your stay here a real eye-opener.
To make your first trip to the Gulf a bit more rewarding, I’m offering you the abbreviated version of the cultural awareness talks I give to expatriates.Follow my advice and I promise you’ll leave the UAE with a huge fan base. We are an incredibly loyal people and really appreciate your visit, but I should warn you that if you slip up ... well, that wouldn’t be, as you say, “hot”.- Just so you know, the UAE is an Islamic nation, and as such we do not allow “adult” content into the country. Customs may search your luggage, so leave any inappropriate videos at home.
- Some words to the wise: learn a few key Arabic phrases and you’ll be sure to charm every Emirati you meet.- When you meet an Emirati man, instead of offering a handshake, you can just give them your million-dollar smile. Local women might hug or kiss you. Feel free to reciprocate.- I’ve heard you are fond of dogs. So am I, although I prefer salukis, you know, real dogs. Bringing Tinkerbell along shouldn’t be a problem, but it’s not a great idea to carry your pet around with you. While we love all of God’s creatures, we don’t consider it clean or polite to shake hands after petting any kind of animal.
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- We treat shopping as a competitive sport. I know money isn’t an issue for you, but try bargaining; it’s part of the fun here.- While you’re at the souks, buy a pashmina. Or two. Or three. As Muslims, we are required to dress modestly. Knowing how fashionable you are, I know you want to wear the right outfit, and it will show your respect for our culture.- You might very well be invited to a local’s house. We are an extremely hospitable people and won’t mind providing you with whatever you want. But you’ve roughed it before on The Simple Life, so be a sport and try dining Emirati style. We sit on the floor and eat with our hands off one big common plate.
- Five times a day the call to prayer reminds Muslims it is time to worship. If you are at a party, as I’m sure you will be some time, make sure to turn the music off until the call is over.- I read that you have been charged with reckless driving a few times. You’re going to fit in just fine here.- If you want to click with Emiratis, ask about their families and talk about your own. Family is extremely important to us.
- Public drunkenness? Not hot. In fact, alcohol is considered haram (forbidden) for Muslims. You as an expatriate are more than welcome to enjoy a cocktail at the many fine hotels, but try to keep the party there.- I know you are here to shoot your new TV show, My New BFF, and probably have all necessary permits. But just as a reminder, please ask permission before you film a local, especially women. We are usually happy to oblige (especially for someone dressed modestly – see pashminas above).
- If someone does offer their hand to shake, please take your purse or drink out of your hand and shake with your right. Just trust me on this.For more of Ali’s advice, see his television show on www.onetvo.com or visit www.ask-ali.com
