It's hard not to be impressed by the flashy, manmade marvels of the United Arab Emirates, from Abu Dhabi's 82-dome Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the Burj Khalifa, which pierces the sky of Dubai as the highest building in the world, unless you're a committed cynic. Remarkably, less than 50 years ago, the country was just a modest federation of desert outposts, and those who wish to glimpse behind the glittering façade can still experience its sand-dusted soul. Wander through the labyrinthine souks (markets) or listen in unison to the calls to prayer. Then, a world away is felt by high-gloss shopping malls and theme parks. Here are 10 essential things to know about its culture and things to do and not to do while visiting Dubai Developers, Abu Dhabi or any other popular destination before you travel to the UAE. 

CULTURE of UAE

• Keep conservative about it. The UAE is rooted in Islamic traditions, so by dressing modestly, even in cosmopolitan Dubai, do as the long-time expats do and respect the culture. Men and women should wear clothing, including knees, that covers the tops of their arms and legs.
• On the PDA, cool it. You can get arrested for anything more intimate than holding hands in public, and unless you are married or closely related, it is against the law to share the same hotel room with someone of the opposite sex. Keep in mind that homosexual sex is illegal and can lead to imprisonment, fines and deportation if you get caught. Book a hotel room with two beds if you are gay and traveling with your partner.
• A prayerful intermission. Muslims pray five times a day, and from nearby mosques you can hear the haunting, lyrical call to prayer broadcast. Listen and take pleasure, but beyond that, there are no non-Muslim expectations. During prayer periods, smaller stores may close.
• Check your meds doubly. The UAE has strict anti-drug laws with zero tolerance, and thorough searches are conducted at its airports. Even drugs that are over-the-counter in some nations, such as those that contain codeine, could get you arrested. Check the list of prohibited substances at the UAE consulate or embassy. And always carry the prescription of a doctor for any medication you bring into the country.

CLIMATE IN ARAB EMIRATES UNITED

• It's just hot. Yep, this is a desert climate, so the weather is warm even in winter; it's totally sizzling in summer. July and August are the hottest months, when the temperature in Dubai averages around 106 F.
• Timing is all. The most comfortable time to visit the UAE is December through February, when temperatures are usually in the 60s, but that's also the most expensive time of year for flights and hotels, of course. Shoulder seasons, like May and September, generally offer less heat, and there are still many discounts available.

CURRENCY of POPULAR USE

•  Like gold, as good. The UAE's currency is the dirham (abbreviated dh). Almost everywhere, credit and debit cards are accepted, but they hold cash in souks or smaller shops for shopping.
•  The tipping tips. Tipping is not required, but it's a popular practice. Most restaurants apply a service fee to the bill; just tack on 10 percent of the amount if one doesn't. The 10% is shared between all workers, not just wait staff, so if the wait staff is especially good, tip a little more. Taxi drivers do not want to get paid, but if you do, they will appreciate it. (A tip of 5 dh is fine, or round the fare up to the nearest 5.) Bag carriers are normally tipped 2 dh at hotels.

Famous CUISINE OF THE UAE

• Sample the flavors of local ones. Don't miss the chance to try genuine Emirati and Persian Gulf cuisine, full of cinnamon, nutmeg and za'atarar flavour (an herbal-citrusy Middle Eastern spice blend with sesame seeds). Don't go out before 8:30 p.m. unless you just want to dine with other visitors. From 10 p.m., Arabs and expats eat late, Onward. Onward.
• Beyond this point, no alcohol. In the Developers in UAE, but only in approved hotels and bars, alcohol is consumed. It's illegal to be under the influence of alcohol in public, and it's not rare to arrest intoxicated visitors. So, if you're going to get involved, do it inside the boundaries of your hotel.