It is not surprising that Islam is the most practiced religion in an Arab nation. In reality, the UAE's official religion is this one. But this does not imply that other faiths, including Christianity, are prohibited. According to data from the Pew Research Center, 76% of the population is Muslim, with 12.6% of people identifying as Christians.

The majority of non-Muslims in the UAE are immigrants from other nations who came to the country for employment and business. About 97 percent of Muslims are Sunnis, while the remaining 3 percent are Shi'ites. Hinduism (6.6%), Buddhism (2%), and a few other minority religions are among the additional religions.

The government does not meddle with other religions, but proselytizing is prohibited, hence it forbids the dissemination of non-Islamic religions through any form of media. There are currently more than 30 churches, compared to just one Hindu temple in Bur Dubai.

The Emirati traditionally dress in items like the abaya and the kandura. The abaya is a black over-garment worn by women as a headscarf, whereas the kandura is a white shirt that reaches the ankles. According to data, the typical guy in the United Arab Emirates has 50 kanduras for keeping himself clean and changing frequently.

The clothing is appropriate for the hot environment of the UAE because of the white hues and the way it is designed. The majority of young people like western-inspired apparel, and this trend has crept into dressing. However, in the UAE, dressing in an incorrect manner may result in an arrest.

Although it is not required by law, ladies should avoid wearing revealing clothing like tank tops and shorts. Below-the-knee skirts are somewhat more acceptable, although you will still encounter attention. There are, however, a significant number of tourist or expat-dominated areas where even "provocative" clothing may be observed, but not always respected. For instance, coastal resorts in Ajman or Fujairah, as well as numerous regions within the Emirate of Dubai.

Public nudity is completely prohibited anywhere and will result in punishment. The most conservative Emirate is Sharjah, which has public decency laws (forbidding excessively revealing attire or some types of beachwear), but few of these are actually implemented (although that varies).

Although the culture of the United Arab Emirates is distinct and can be very conservative, in general, people there are fairly aware of international ways, conventions, events, media, and etiquette.

The traditional attire for local men includes a "Kandoura" (better known as a dishdash), a long robe (often white), and a ghutra, a red-checked or white headgear. Women there don a black headscarf and a robe-like garment called an abaya (Shayla).

Though not as much as some of its neighbors, the UAE is more conservative than the majority of Western societies. Travelers should be mindful of and respect the UAE's more traditional viewpoint because some Western behaviors, such making "rude and offensive gestures," will get you arrested there. Western tourists, on the other hand, will find most of the UAE to be quite comfortable.

In the UAE, social classes are distinct. First, there is a division between Emirati nationals and the immigrant group, also referred to as "incomers." Politically and socially, the reigning Sheikh families occupy the top positions in society. They are incredibly powerful and wealthy.

The next level of social strata are the merchant classes. Historically, the merchants were employed by the pearling trade, which is no longer practiced. They currently engage in a significant amount of foreign trade.

The new generation of middle class professionals who have advanced their studies in the booming economy since the Federation of Emirati States was established comes next. The lower income groups, such as former pearl divers, farmers, and Bedouin settlers, constitute the basis of the class system.

There is a hierarchy of social classes among the various immigrant groups, starting with the top executives, technocrats, and foreign contractors. Teachers, technologists, salespeople, and nursing workers make up the following group. The lowest paid semi-skilled and unskilled service employees, many of whom are Asian, are at the bottom of the pay range.

Although Emirati society has historically been patriarchal, the UAE supports gender equality and upholds equal rights for both sexes. Women are given the same legal standing, rights to employment and education, title claims, and the ability to inherit property. The UAE are a leading nation in the area for equality, according to the 2016 World Economic Forum.

In the workforce today, women hold significantly more power. This applies to fields that were formerly controlled by men, such as the military, business, and government. All educational institutions were rigorously separated up until recently, but co-education is now gradually being implemented. More than 70% of women choose to pursue higher education, with many choosing to major in STEM fields including science, technology, engineering, and math.

However, there is still considerable inequality even though the government has made it clear that it supports gender equality. Married women are compelled by law to follow their husbands and are unable to obtain paid job without his approval. There is currently no comprehensive law regulating domestic abuse against women, despite significant demand from numerous women's organizations.

The UAE has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times and is influenced by numerous shifting civilisations. From ancient tribes of Bedouin people who traversed deserts to centuries-old pearl divers along the Arabian Gulf.

The UAE today takes pride in its cultural heritage while promoting and supporting modern theater, literature, and the arts. Dubai is dotted with theaters, art galleries, and museums that provide a glimpse into the past and future of the arts. The Sharjah Fort, the former home of the ruling family, now contains a museum documenting local history. In 1998, the City of Sharjah was chosen as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World.

With its natural springs and palm trees, the oasis city of Al Ain, often known as the "Garden City," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stone-age and bronze-age bones are among the artifacts on display at the Al Ain National Museum. The performing arts, contemporary poetry, and literature are overtaking them in popularity, especially "spoken poetry," which has roots in historical tradition.

Nabati poetry, which has long been referred to as "people's poetry," is still a significant component of contemporary literature and has for centuries chronicled the customs and way of life of various civilizations.

Handshakes are typically extended but steady. Use only your right hand, please. When people of the same gender are well acquainted, greetings frequently involve affectionate embraces and hugs. Arab men and women have the option of refusing to shake the hands of those of the other sex.

Many Muslim men and women follow this form of religion. It's not personal, so don't take it personally. Therefore, we advise males to wait to extend their hand until after a woman has extended hers. Similarly, if a man extends his hand to a woman and she declines, we advise using an alternative greeting that is frequently used in the Muslim world.

This gesture involves placing the right hand flat over the heart while giving a quick nod of the head and smiling. It is customary to greet the group's senior or oldest members first.

There are some taboos that you should bear in mind.

• Don't debate religion or disparage Islam.
  
• Men shouldn't linger or complement women.
  
• Avoid leaving the house in scantly clad
  
• You shouldn't let non-Muslims into a mosque or touch a Qu'ran.
  
• Public kissing and snuggling are highly forbidden and can lead to jail.

Since the soles of your feet are the lowest point on your body and the part that touches the ground, they are seen as being dirty. Even if you are only revealing one sole by crossing your legs, it is impolite to sit with your feet exposed. Even when they are on seats, feet might still be considered unclean. If you're seen putting your feet up on a public seat (like a railway or bus seat), you'll probably be thought of as impolite and rude.

The left hand is another area of the body that is fraught with taboo. Typically, the left hand is exclusively employed when washing oneself after using the restroom. In addition, the right hand and left hand also bear spiritual importance in Islamic traditions; the right hand stands for virtue and the left for evil. As a result, passing anything (such money, presents, or food) with your left hand is frowned upon as being disrespectful and bad manners.

In Middle Eastern culture, communal meals are frequently shared from huge bowls set in the middle of the dining area. Use only your right hand to accept bread or to ladle sauces, etc., if you are invited to share food in this manner. If you utilize your left hand, people will not appreciate your actions.

This is why it's crucial that you accept invitations to engage in cuisine, visit a restaurant, or even visit someone's home. You would be perceived poorly and as someone who is not interested in establishing any kind of relationship, whether it be personal or professional, unless you had a very excellent reason not to.

You will learn the most about people, their values, and their ideas when you spend time with them over meals. It is also where you will have the most positive encounters in the area. But be ready for some late nights. Due to the heat, most individuals prefer to remain up late and eat throughout the night.

In the United Arab Emirates, eating is a very social activity that may also be used for business. Arriving fifteen minutes late is considered nice. The right hand is expected to be used when eating; the left hand is regarded as filthy. But if you're left-handed, using a fork or spoon while eating is allowed. Arabs are only permitted to eat with their hands and without any other utensils. Therefore, it is crucial to keep your hands clean.

Some families favor having their seats on floor cushions. Refusing the offer of additional food is not regarded as being polite. When you're done eating and using utensils, put the cutlery in the center of the plate, facing up. Giving more than the service charge, up to 10%, is appropriate when dining in a restaurant.

The extremely tactile character of Middle Eastern people is one feature of the culture that some foreigners find challenging to live with. Compared to, say, the UK, South Korea, or the USA, personal space is not viewed in the same way. They prefer to interact up close.

Many newcomers to the area are surprised to see adult men walking hand in hand in public. This simply refers to the degree of intimacy and warmth that is expected between friends and has no sexual overtones. People may see those who maintain a safe distance or who make it plain they do not enjoy physical contact favorably or with mistrust.

Family is central to UAE culture and is founded on the deeply ingrained principles of tribal connection among Emiratis. Families are close-knit and prize children, preferring to live in the same neighborhood. The UAE National Charter 2021, which strives to protect the traditional values of marriage and strengthen family ties, was unveiled by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid in February 2010.

The charter emphasizes the value of communication across family generations and respect for seniors. The introduction to the charter declares that "We strive to be among the best countries in the world and this can only be done by strengthening families, which form the basis of society." A "Family Pledge" was established as part of the campaign, encouraging Emiratis to sign an

The UAE's poetry scene is centered on a variety of themes and subjects, such as satire, religion, love, family, self-praise, chivalry, patriotism, and many other things. Since ancient times, the poems written in the United Arab Emirates have had a significant impact on the culture of the Arab nation.

A significant portion of the poetry's style was influenced by a scholar from the eighth century by the name of Al Khalil bin Ahmed. However, the 20th century witnessed the advent of forms like prose, which is a western style, just like it did with every other part of culture. Mubarak Al Oqaili, Ahmed bin Sulayem, Salem bin Ali al Owais, Sheikh Saqr Al Qasimi, Sultan bin Ali al Owais, and a few more are among the best poets in UAE history.

The Arab khaleeji tradition is practiced in the UAE. These people specialize in a Yowla-style of music, with dances mostly influenced by the Bantu people of Africa's Great Lakes region. Social occasions like weddings and celebrations frequently include songs and dances. While men conduct dances simulating historical wars, girls typically dance by swinging their hips and hair.

All of these dances are often passed down from one generation to the next through oral tradition. Other genres of music have developed in the modern day as a result of the current generation fusing the past and present. Elton John, Celine Dion, Zayn Malik, and other foreign performers have found favor with the local audience.

The UAE also offers a variety of sports. While some of them are indigenous to the area, others are a product of other civilizations and nations. For instance, Formula One racing has become increasingly popular, with the majority of the races taking place at the Yas Marina Circuit. Because it was the first track to host a Formula One race that began during the day and ended at night, the circuit is well-known.

There are other other sports, such as camel racing, endurance riding, golf, football, and cricket. Football teams like Shabab Al Ahli Dubai, Al Nasr SC, Al-Sharjah, and others are among the most well-known ones. The nation is currently the confirmed host of the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. The cricket squad is very well-liked and has won numerous accolades, such as qualification for the 1996 and 2015 Cricket World Cups.