contents

Map of the UAE

Introduction

Key Facts

Chapter 1: LAND AND PEOPLE

• Geography

• Climate

• Rain

• The Environment

• The People

• The Importance Of Tribe

• A Brief History

• Sheikh Zayed

• Modern Times

• Government And Politics

• The Sheiks

• The Federal Supreme Council

• The Courts

• International Affiliations

• The Economy

• Government Generosity

• Treatment Of Foreign Workers

• The Quandary Of Long-term Expatriates

• The Contrast Between Old And New In Dubai

Chapter 2: VALUES AND ATTITUDES

• The Bubble Mentality

• Status And Social Structure

• Family

• Arab Pride

• Charity

• Religion

• Attitudes Toward Women

• Marriage

• Insha’allah

• Backhand Economy

• Wasta

• Tolerance And Prejudice

• Sense Of Humor

Chapter 3: CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

• Falconry

• Calendars

• Holidays

• Ramadan

• Eid Al-fitr

• Other Religious Holidays

• New Year

• Other Celebrations

• Local Customs And Folklore

• Traditional Emirati Dancing

Chapter 4: MAKING FRIENDS

• Attitudes Toward Foreigners

• Greetings

• Hospitality

• Invitations Home

• Manners

Chapter 5: THE EMIRATIS AT HOME

• The Household

• Family Life

• Childhood

• Education

• Daily Life

• Clothes

• Henna

• Family Occasions

• The Importance Of Scent In Emirati Culture

Chapter 6: TIME OUT

• Shopping

• Cultural Activities

• Eating Out

• Nightclubs And Bars

• Sports

• Out Of Town

Chapter 7: TRAVEL, HEALTH, AND SAFETY

• Roads And Traffic

• Where To Stay

• Health

• Safety

Chapter 8: BUSINESS BRIEFING

• The Business Landscape

• The Local Business Community

• Business Culture

• Business Ethics

• Business Etiquette

• Presentations

• Negotiations

• Contracts

• Meetings

• Dealing With The Government

• Women In The Workplace

• Economic Free Zones

Chapter 9: COMMUNICATING

• The Communications Revolution

• Social Media

• The Media

• Conclusion

Further Reading