Dubai is one of the most visited cities in the world for both business and leisure travellers. However, there are several myths about life in Dubai. This blog will try to identify them to help you clear your doubts before you land in this vibrant city.
1) You Cannot Drink Alcohol or Eat Pork
Social life is restricted, and one cannot live a free life. Since Dubai follows Islam, it is believed it is not tolerant of other religious beliefs. For example, both Alcohol and Pork are prohibited in Islam. Therefore, it is assumed that people who would like to consume alcohol and pork may not have the freedom to consume them at their will. Fact is, Dubai is cosmopolitan and majorly populated by people from South Asia. It also has people from other parts of the world, making it a melting point of multiple international cultures and cuisines. Though Dubai follows Islam widely, the overall picture of Dubai is multi-cultural, and hence you can find people from all religions living cordially.
The city has respect for all religions and is tolerant of all the needs of tourists. All non-muslims above 18 years can buy and consume alcohol. There are hundreds of pubs, restaurants, clubs and resorts, where you can find drinks of your choice. In many restaurants and clubs, you can order pork or even buy it online via Spinneys, Thomsons, and Choithrams Supermarkets. However, if you stay with a friend, you can consume alcohol only if your friend(s) have permission to consume alcohol. Note, only in Sharjah there is a prohibition in the sale and consumption of alcohol. Dubai nightlife is one of the most thrilling ones, and one cannot think of it without a stock of fine drinks. Of course, you are expected to behave responsibly. Drink in moderation and sensibly.
2.) You Will Struggle for Vegetarian Cuisines
If you love to taste food from various parts of the world, Dubai is the place for you. You get the flavours from all the parts of the world in one place. Dubai restaurants serve international cuisines, and you can find your favourite dish in your choice of restaurant. Arabic food ranges from Emirati, Syrian, Egyptian, Lebanese, combined with elaborate vegetarian starters (mezze), desserts and main courses. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes you can have are – falafel, couscous, fattoush, tabbouleh, koshary, muhammara, manakeesh, moutabel, ful (beans), hummus, to mention a few.
Since Dubai has a 60% population from the Indian sub-continent, you can easily find many Indian restaurants serving the most delicious vegetarian/vegan food. You can also find veg cuisines from other countries. When it comes to veg food in Dubai, you will be spoilt for choice.
3.) Dubai is All About Malls, Skyscrapers and Deserts
It is assumed, Dubai is all about malls and world-renowned skyscrapers, which is a myth. This most lively city of the United Arab Emirates is more than just the tallest buildings and vast deserts globally. It has a fine blend of desert, sea, mangroves, mountains, and creeks. The city has something for everyone. You can set out for sale in a luxury yacht charter or indulge in extreme water sports like snorkelling, parasailing and kayaking; you can also go on a fantastic desert safari, visit several historic sites, museums, art galleries, prehistoric sites, and more. Also, try your hands in sea-surfing, crab hunting, deep-sea fishing, camping, balloon rides, trekking, zipline and indoor skiing. Also, visit zoos, parks, gardens, walk-in an indoor rain forest, souqs, or try sky diving, jet-skiing, or indoor skiing; Dubai will never disappoint you.
4.) Language is an Issue
Arabic is the official language and is widely spoken across the United Arab Emirates. However, all signboards also carry an English version of Arabic texts. Dubai is home to a large number of foreign residents from 200 countries, and therefore, linguistically, it is diverse. In addition, the locals, government officials, Police, cab drivers, restaurants, mall staff can speak English. So language is not a problem here.
5.) Dubai is Crime-free
With millions of residents and tourists, it is difficult to say there is zero per cent crime. But, yes, it is safe from severe crimes due to strict laws. Cameras are installed everywhere in the city, and the administration and Police efficiently implement rules. Undoubtedly, the crime rate is much lower than in many other countries, but it would be wrong to say it is crime-free. Littering, traffic offences, petty theft, can be caught at many public places or outside. Therefore, it is essential to be sensible when you interact to avoid any kind of unexpected situation.
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