DUBAI CULTURE AND SPECIFICS OF THE CITY
In the past, many westerners were weary of visiting Dubai due to its strict Muslim laws and customs. General guidelines include dressing modestly in public, not consuming alcohol and being considerate of local religious practices. Keep in mind that non-Muslims are typically not allowed into mosques under any circumstances, so avoid wondering into any no matter how great the temptation may be.

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and visitors can dress however they like. Still, a good amount of respect for local customs is appreciated. In deference to local customs and norms it is a good idea for visitors not to wear very short, tight clothing, at least until such time as they are comfortable with the city. UAE nationals usually wear their traditional dress. For men this is the dishdasha or khandura, a white full-length shirt-dress. It is worn with a white or red checked headdress known as a gutra. In public women wear the black abaya, a long black robe that covers their normal clothes. They also wear a headscarf.

The official language of the country is Arabic, however most people in and out of the workplace communicate in English. There are so many different nationalities in Dubai, English finds common ground with most people. The majority of road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc. are in both English and Arabic.

The layout of the city is broken into two parts, Diera and Bur Dubai. It is split by the creek although the creek is a good sized river. Along the creek you will find by far the most amazingly modern buildings anywhere (all on Diera side). It is very unique in that sense. Flip over to the other side of the creek and it is more traditional (along the creek only). Heading into Bur Dubai, you have two parts: Karama and Bur Dubai. If you hit Bank Street, you will find banks (duh) from everywhere. Come here to do your job.