Eat Like a Local: Understanding Dubai's Table Traditions
May 6, 2025
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Dining in Dubai offers a fascinating glimpse into a culture where tradition meets modernity, especially at the table 
[8]
[15]. It's more than just enjoying delicious food; it's about connection, respect, and experiencing the heart of Emirati hospitality, known as karam 
[2]
[4]. While you'll find international restaurants familiar with Western manners, understanding local customs is key for truly positive interactions 
[1][2][15]. Meals here are often seen as vital opportunities to build relationships [2]
[3]
[13]. This guide focuses on two central pillars of Dubai table manners: the significance of eating with the right hand and the cherished practice of sharing meals communally. Getting these right enhances cultural understanding and ensures your dining experiences are smooth and respectful [1][2][15].
Why the Right Hand? Unpacking Tradition and Belief
You might notice that in traditional settings, food is often eaten using the right hand [2][3][4]
[5]
[6]
[7]
[9]
[11]
[12]
[14]. This isn't just a preference; it's a custom deeply embedded in Islamic teachings and cultural norms around cleanliness 
[10][11][13]. The practice originates from Islamic tradition, following the guidance of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who instructed followers to eat with their right hand [10][13]. Within these teachings, the right hand is designated for tasks considered 'clean' or 'noble', like eating, drinking, shaking hands, or handling objects being given or received [3][6][10][11].
Conversely, the left hand is traditionally reserved for personal hygiene and tasks deemed 'unclean' [2][5][10][11][13][14]. There's even a belief that Satan eats with his left hand, further discouraging its use for meals [10][11]. Beyond the religious significance, this distinction serves a practical purpose, especially in communal dining scenarios, by promoting hygiene and minimizing potential contamination [11][13]. For many, using the right hand to eat is an expression of faith and a sign of respect for these long-held teachings [7][13]. It’s a fundamental aspect of Dubai table manners rooted in deep cultural values [2][11].
How-To: Embracing the Custom (or Using Utensils Gracefully)
So, how does one eat respectfully using the right hand in Dubai? First things first, always wash your hands thoroughly before and after the meal – it's customary and hygienic [7][6]. When eating traditional dishes like rice and meat served communally, you typically use the fingers of your right hand – specifically the thumb, index, and middle finger – to gather a portion of food [3][7][12][14]. Gently form the food into a small, manageable ball before bringing it to your mouth, taking care not to put your fingers directly inside [7][12]. For dips like hummus or stews, pieces of bread are often used as a scoop, again, primarily using the right hand [7].
But what if you're left-handed or simply not comfortable eating with your fingers? Don't worry. Utensils like spoons and forks are widely available and perfectly acceptable, especially in restaurants or more formal settings [2][3]. Hosts are generally very understanding and accommodating; they might offer cutlery if they sense a guest is hesitant or prefers it [3]. While Emiratis consistently follow the right-hand custom, visitors using their left hand or cutlery are unlikely to be criticized [14]. However, making an effort to observe the tradition, even if just trying a small bite with the right hand, is often appreciated as a sign of respect [3][14].
Karam in Action: The Joy of Communal Dining
Sharing meals is truly at the heart of Emirati hospitality, a practice deeply ingrained in the culture that symbolizes unity, generosity, and friendship [2][4][5][9][12]. It's very common, particularly in homes and during gatherings, to see food served on large central platters meant for everyone to share [2][3][4][7][12]. This communal approach reflects the core value of karam, or generosity, which Emirati hosts are renowned for [2][4][5]. Hosts consider it an honor to provide food and drink, often going above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome and well-cared for [2][4][5].
Upon arriving at an Emirati home, expect a warm welcome, often with the greeting "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you), followed by an offering of Arabic coffee and dates [2][5][6]. It's polite to accept at least a small amount of this initial offering [5][6]. If you wish to decline more coffee, gently shaking the small cup side to side is the customary signal [6][8]. Guests are usually given a place of honor, and in business contexts, the most senior guest often sits to the host's right [2][3]. When food is served, accept what's offered graciously [2][4]. Hosts will likely encourage you to eat more – sample various dishes to show appreciation, but feel free to politely decline when you are full [2]. Don't forget to compliment the meal, and bringing a small gift like chocolates or dates for the host is a thoughtful gesture [2][4][6][9]. Remember, if you're invited out as a guest, the host traditionally pays the bill [3].
Rules of the Platter: Eating Together Harmoniously
When faced with a large, shared platter of delicious food like Thareed (a stew with bread) or Machboos (spiced rice and meat), there are a few etiquette points to keep in mind [2][3][4]. The golden rule is to eat only from the portion of the dish directly in front of you [7][10]. Reaching across the platter to grab something from the other side is generally avoided [7][10]. Sometimes, your host might offer you choice pieces of meat or other special items by placing them onto your section of the platter – accept these gestures graciously [12].
Eat at a relaxed pace, enjoying the food and the company [7]. Wasting food is considered disrespectful in Emirati culture, so try to take only amounts you think you can finish [2]. Interestingly, leaving a very small amount of food on your plate can sometimes be interpreted politely, signifying that the host's generosity was more than sufficient [5]. Be mindful of seating arrangements too; traditional settings might involve sitting on carpets or cushions in a majlis, requiring you to remove your shoes before entering [2][4]. In some traditional homes, meals might even be eaten while seated on the floor [3]. Be aware that in certain large, traditional gatherings, there might be gender-specific seating areas [2][3]. Remember, these meals are primarily about building relationships, so heavy business talk is usually best avoided [3].
Quick Recap: Key Dos and Don'ts
Let's quickly summarize the essential Dubai table manners we've covered:
•
DO express your thanks to the host by saying "Shukran" [2].
Understanding and observing these dining customs is more than just following rules; it's about showing respect for Emirati culture and fostering genuine connections [2][8][15]. Embracing these practices, like using the right hand and participating in communal sharing, allows you to fully appreciate the warmth and generosity (karam) that defines dining in Dubai [2][4]. So, approach your meals with an open mind and enjoy the rich culinary hospitality the UAE has to offer.
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