When it comes to teaching abroad, one of the most important aspects to consider is understanding and adapting to the local culture. This is especially true for international teachers who are planning to work in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a unique set of customs and traditions. In this article, we will explore eight key cultural differences that international teachers must know in order to successfully adapt to their new environment.
Greetings and Etiquette
In the UAE, greetings are an important part of daily interactions. When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to greet them with a handshake. However, it is important to note that some Emirati women may prefer not to shake hands with men. In this case, it is best to wait for the woman to initiate the greeting. Additionally, it is common to exchange pleasantries and inquire about the person’s well-being before getting down to business. This shows respect and helps to establish a friendly rapport.
Furthermore, it is important to be mindful of cultural norms regarding personal space. Emiratis value their personal space and may stand at a slightly greater distance during conversations compared to what you may be accustomed to. It is important to respect this and avoid invading their personal space.
Dress Code and Modesty
The UAE has a conservative dress code, especially in public places. Both men and women are expected to dress modestly, with clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. For women, it is common to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs, and to wear a headscarf or hijab. Men are expected to wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. It is important to adhere to these dress code guidelines, especially when working in educational institutions.
It is also worth noting that swimwear should only be worn at designated beach or pool areas, and it is not appropriate to wear revealing clothing in public places. By respecting the local dress code, international teachers can demonstrate their cultural sensitivity and earn the respect of their colleagues and students.
Religious Customs and Practices
The UAE is a Muslim-majority country, and Islam plays a significant role in the daily lives of its residents. It is important for international teachers to be aware of and respect the religious customs and practices of their students and colleagues. For example, during the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. It is important to be mindful of this and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Additionally, it is customary to greet Muslims with the Arabic phrase “As-salamu alaykum,” which means “peace be upon you.”
Furthermore, it is important to be respectful of mosques and prayer times. Avoid entering mosques unless you are invited, and be mindful of the call to prayer, which occurs five times a day. During prayer times, it is customary to pause and allow Muslims to pray without interruption.
Workplace Hierarchy and Communication
In the UAE, workplace hierarchy is highly respected and it is important to show deference to those in positions of authority. This includes addressing superiors by their title and last name, such as “Mr.” or “Ms.” Additionally, it is important to be punctual for meetings and appointments, as tardiness is considered disrespectful.
When communicating with colleagues and students, it is important to be polite and maintain a professional tone. Emiratis value indirect communication and may use subtle cues to convey their thoughts or opinions. It is important to be attentive to non-verbal cues and to ask clarifying questions when necessary.
Furthermore, it is important to be mindful of the use of humor in the workplace. While humor can be a great way to build rapport, it is important to avoid jokes that may be considered offensive or inappropriate in the local culture.
Gender Roles and Interactions
The UAE has traditional gender roles and it is important to be aware of and respect these cultural norms. In public, it is common for men and women to interact in a professional manner, but physical contact between unrelated men and women should be avoided. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the seating arrangements in meetings or social gatherings, as it is common for men and women to be seated separately.
When teaching, it is important to be mindful of the cultural sensitivities surrounding gender. For example, it may be more appropriate for female teachers to work with female students on certain topics, especially in subjects related to health or physical education.
Social Gatherings and Hospitality
Hospitality is highly valued in Emirati culture, and it is common to be invited to social gatherings or meals. When attending these events, it is important to arrive on time and bring a small gift, such as flowers or chocolates, as a token of appreciation. Additionally, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
During social gatherings, it is important to be respectful and follow the lead of your Emirati hosts. For example, it is common to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. It is also important to avoid discussing sensitive topics, such as politics or religion, unless your host initiates the conversation.
Respect for Authority and Elders
In Emirati culture, respect for authority and elders is highly valued. It is important to show deference to those in positions of authority, such as supervisors or administrators. Additionally, it is important to show respect to older individuals by using appropriate titles and addressing them with respect.
When interacting with students, it is important to be mindful of the cultural norms surrounding respect for teachers. Students are expected to show respect to their teachers and may address them using formal titles, such as “Mr.” or “Ms.” It is important to establish clear boundaries and expectations in the classroom to maintain a respectful learning environment.
Understanding Local Laws and Regulations
Lastly, it is crucial for international teachers to familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations of the UAE. The UAE has strict laws regarding alcohol consumption, public displays of affection, and the use of social media. It is important to adhere to these laws and to be mindful of the potential consequences of violating them.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural sensitivities surrounding certain topics, such as politics or religion. It is best to avoid discussing these topics in public or on social media, as it may be considered disrespectful or offensive.
In conclusion, adapting to the UAE as an international teacher requires a deep understanding and respect for the local culture. By familiarizing themselves with the greetings and etiquette, dress code and modesty, religious customs and practices, workplace hierarchy and communication, gender roles and interactions, social gatherings and hospitality, respect for authority and elders, and local laws and regulations, international teachers can successfully navigate their new environment and create a positive and inclusive learning environment for their students.
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