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How secure are women in the United Arab Emirates?
The Middle East’s United Arab Emirates is a region that is inviting, tranquil, and safe. It really boasts some of the lowest rates of crime in the whole globe. It is extremely uncommon for visitors or foreign residents to experience violence or harassment. There have been a number of high-profile incidents in recent years when women have been assaulted and subsequently blamed for their own assault or even punished. Like at home, such occurrences are quite uncommon.
By taking responsibility for your personal safety and being aware of what behavior is and isn’t appropriate, dangerous situations may frequently be avoided.
The quality of life and overall living standards are remarkable in the Emirates, one of the richest countries in the world, for both men and women. While men and women are required to participate in various activities separately, such as schooling and prayer, there are no laws prohibiting where or what women can do. The locals are well known for their great welcome towards foreigners and are quite amiable.
Restrictions for dress in the United Arab Emirates
The idea that women must always wear a headpiece or a lengthy veil is the largest misunderstanding about the Emirates. As a tolerant Muslim country, the United Arab Emirates does not impose head coverings in most public areas, events, malls, restaurants, or bars, despite the fact that many religious institutions, like mosques and temples, do. Dubai City is the most casual in terms of attire; shorts and tank tops are appropriate throughout the city, and swimwear with exposed arms and legs is permissible on the beach or in a public pool.
You must present yourself modestly both in public and in the classroom. This calls for covering your wrists, ankles, and, in certain locations, your shoulders and knees. Even if the weather may make you hanker after your cami tops and short summer skirts, these outfits are typically frowned upon. Even though these regulations are rarely followed, doing so is appropriate out of respect for the local culture. Inappropriate clothing will also probably draw criticism.
Restrictions on relationships in the United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, which prioritizes families, husbands, and wives are actively encouraged to socialize together and spend time with their kids. It is true that if you are not married or related through marriage, it is unlawful for you to reside with or live with a non-related person of the opposite sex. It is always essential to strictly abide by local laws and traditions to prevent complications, despite the fact that the police seldom take action to enforce them.
Although there are a few things to keep in mind, dating is absolutely viable and quite accessible for single women in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Public shows of love like kissing and embracing are discouraged, and in certain suburban communities, residents find it suspicious if a lady is with a guy who is not her spouse or a relative.
Restrictions while going out in the United Arab Emirates
Everywhere you go, single ladies and groups of women are invited to socialize. The nightlife scenes in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are vibrant, and there are a variety of places to go, from laid-back bars to opulent champagne salons. Additionally, some of the most opulent restaurants in the world may be found here. Alcohol usage is prohibited by the Islamic faith, yet thanks to tourism, beer, wine, and spirits are commonly accessible. Similar to most other nations, you are only permitted to consume alcohol at approved clubs or bars and at your own house. It is unlawful to do so anywhere else.
The United Arab Emirates has a stunning, sunny climate that makes it a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors all year long. There is no shortage of social sports clubs, which are fantastic locations to meet people and stay in shape. These organizations offer everything from tennis to horseback riding to ice skating (yep, ice skating). Additionally, it is customary for women in the United Arab Emirates to interact socially without males when participating in activities like cooking, painting, or craft classes, all of which are fantastic opportunities to get to know and interact with both locals and expatriates.
Staying arrangements in the United Arab Emirates
Nearly all of the United Arab Emirates teaching programs that Teach Away works with provide cozy private housing as part of the employment package. Living alone is entirely safe for women, and the flats that are supplied are almost usually found in an expat neighborhood that is safe and well-kept. If you’d prefer, you could have the option of moving in with a same-sex flatmate following your arrival.
Tips for women who want to stay in the United Arab Emirates
To learn more about their experiences, speak with someone who is currently teaching and living abroad in the United Arab Emirates. Online discussion boards like those on Teach Away are great locations to connect with individuals for knowledge and guidance if you don’t know anybody personally.
Buy a new wardrobe! Start collecting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees and do your study on the customs of the neighborhood where you’ll be residing. Maxi dresses, kimonos, or other tops in the kaftan or kimono style, and light-colored, loose-fitting shirts are also excellent choices.
Prepare a list of emergency and vital contacts for when you arrive, such as the numbers for your employer, bank, doctor, and family members back home, as well as the contacts for your national embassy, medical facility, and employment.